
Will they save, take a loan or stay at home? How are Albanians expected to act during the holidays this year?
"There are families who want to please their children, but getting a vacation loan is difficult. Maybe you can go on a cheaper vacation.”
"This summer we have a break as we have no economic opportunities, we just bought an apartment and we will think about the year."
"With this economy, which is from the doorstep and inside the house, we have no options", the citizens say.
They secure the money, but work for months to repay it. Taking a loan for vacations or trips is being considered as a quick solution for many citizens who want to take vacations but do not have the opportunity.
"I appreciate that there are young couples who need this support from the banks as an opportunity. For myself, I see it as optional."
"I don't think it's reasonable with these interests, if they were good why not"
"I would take the loan to educate my children more", say the citizens.
A study by the Albanian microfinance association, whose companies help citizens with credit through lending, reveals that for 70% of interviewees, the desire to travel is more important than saving for school, medicine, car or clothing.
On the other hand, foreigners do not see obtaining a loan as a necessary possibility while traveling to Albania for vacation.
"We use our savings, but as far as we can see, Albania is a very free country and we don't spend much."
"I am from Saudi Arabia. I use my savings to travel, but I see that Albania is getting more expensive every year, but it's still affordable."
"We like to travel. As young people, we would even consider getting a loan for vacations in our country", the citizens say.
Despite the price crisis, existing at that time, but also high inflation, in 2023, according to data from the Bank of Albania, Albanians spent 235 billion lek on travel, where the peak was recorded in the months of July-September and less at the beginning of the year.