A beach "like in the Maldives": a hot European holiday spot with hotels starting from 23 pounds per night

Over the past year, Albania has emerged as a promising tourist destination for Britons. Many travelers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations are drawn to the cities and coastal areas of this region for their natural beauty, sandy beaches, and affordable amenities.

Today, this destination is gaining popularity, and it's not hard to understand why, as prices for accommodations on Airbnb or in hotels are remarkably low compared to many other parts of Europe. This was reported by dailystar.co.

One of the main draws of Albania is its stunning Riviera, which has been likened to the Caribbean Sea due to its sparkling blue waters. Palase Beach, also known as Palasa Beach, is situated in this area and captivates tourists with its Maldives-like waters, Michelin-starred cuisine, and incredibly reasonable prices.

Moreover, according to PintPrice, a glass of quality beer will only set you back 50 pence in the nearby town of Saranda. That's cheaper than almost anywhere else in Europe, and the cuisine is exceptional as well. A British visitor to Albania left a glowing review of the nearby Drymades Inn restaurant.

They remarked, "Wow! The food here is absolutely sensational. The grilled octopus is probably one of the best dishes I've ever had. In the UK, it would warrant a Michelin star. And the service here is impeccable."

Despite the fantastic food and beverages, it's the beach that truly sets this destination apart. Vacationers rave about the Albanian coastline, which they describe as "paradise on earth." One tourist wrote that Palase Beach, a picturesque coastal area near the Himalaya in Vlora County, boasts "crystal-clear blue waters reminiscent of the Maldives."

Considering that a single night's stay in the Maldives in the southern Indian Ocean can cost thousands of pounds, Albania offers a much more economical alternative.

Drymades Bungalows provides 4-star accommodations on a private beach at the end of Palase Beach. It boasts a garden and bar, sea-view rooms, and a buffet breakfast each morning.

Additionally, the hotel's restaurant serves Greek and Mediterranean cuisine along with seafood dishes, all within walking distance of the Maldivian-style bay. The price for a double room on booking.com starts at around £43 per night, and considering the quality, that's quite reasonable - just £21.50 per night.

While these hotels may not offer the same level of luxury as those in the Maldives, they provide excellent value for the price. Another option overlooking the beach is the 4-star Hildon Eco Hotel in Derma. It features a garden, restaurant, and bar, as well as a private beach with sun loungers and refreshments.