A simple booking mix-up during a short trip to Albania in 2017 unexpectedly rerouted British journalist Alice Taylor’s life, leading her to discover a profound sense of belonging and build a thriving career in the Balkan nation. What was intended as a brief getaway transformed into a life-altering decision to relocate and embrace a new culture.
Key Takeaways
- A flight booking error extended a short trip to Albania into a life-changing decision.
- Taylor found a deep sense of belonging and purpose in Albania.
- She has since become an Albanian citizen, built a successful journalism career, and raised a family there.
An Accidental Extended Stay
Alice Taylor, then a seasoned journalist with experience in Malta, embarked on a spontaneous weekend trip to Albania from Cyprus. Her initial plan was to stay for less than four days. However, an ear infection on her second day prompted a visit to a local doctor who advised her to postpone her flight.
While attempting to rebook her flight, a moment of distraction, possibly influenced by a traditional Albanian drink called raki, led her to accidentally extend her stay by three weeks instead of three days. Unable to afford another change, Taylor decided to embrace the extended visit.
Embracing a New Home
By the end of those three weeks, Taylor was so captivated by Albania’s warmth, culture, and the welcoming nature of its people that she returned to Malta, packed her belongings, and moved to Albania with her two cats. She felt an immediate sense of safety, happiness, and inspiration, recognizing it as where she was meant to be.
Building a Life and Career
Despite initial challenges with the Albanian language, Taylor immersed herself in learning, eventually becoming conversational. She has since become an Albanian citizen and is raising her daughter, Dea, in the country. Her journalistic endeavors have flourished, leading her to launch Albania’s first podcast, "Explaining Albania," which evolved into "Inside Albania," the country’s first English-language current affairs show.
Her show features interviews with prominent political figures and international personalities, offering a foreign perspective on Albanian issues. Beyond broadcasting, Taylor works as a freelance editor for POLITICO, a correspondent for outlets like the BBC and The Times, and mentors young people. She has also authored three books about Albania, solidifying her deep connection to her adopted home.
