Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?

My name is Naomi, and I am a web and brand designer from Vancouver, B.C. I am currently running my own agency called Ginza Design and I also recently started a digital nomad blog and mentorship platform called Juicy Detour.

Through Juicy Detour, I share my experiences, insights, and tips on living a fulfilling digital nomad lifestyle.

I aim to help aspiring digital nomads navigate their journey, providing guidance and support as they seek to achieve the freedom and flexibility of this lifestyle.

By combining my expertise as a designer and my passion for the digital nomad lifestyle, I hope to inspire and empower others to embrace this exciting way of living and working.

It’s an exciting chapter in my career, as I continue to evolve as a digital entrepreneur and expand my impact through mentorship and sharing my knowledge through Juicy Detour.

How did you decide to visit Vlore, Albania

Roughly about a year ago I stumbled across a youtube video showcasing the beauty of Albania and I was instantly intrigued and added it to my “wishlist” of travel destinations.

When the perfect opportunity came, I knew it was aligned!

The city of Vlore easily secured a spot among the top three cities during my travel journey.

The slow-living lifestyle, amazing beaches, landscapes, vibrant community, and welcoming locals make it easy to be able to call it home.

What is a typical day/week look like being a digital nomad in Vlore?

My daily routine in Vlore, Albania looks something like breakfast with good coffee, and then I’m off for a morning walk to a cafe with a lunch break and finishing it off sometime in the evening.

On the weekends I try to explore the city more and have been on the hunt to see some wild flamingos. 

What surprised you about Vlore

What ultimately surprised me about Vlore were the palm trees all over town and how crystal clear the water is. 

As Vlore is located along the coastal side, numerous restaurants and cafes offer amaaazing views overlooking the waters. It just makes each meal or coffee that much more enjoyable.

I also feel extremely safe here in Vlore and throughout Albania as a solo Asian female traveller. It’s proved to be a super secure and safe destination.

The locals displayed genuine kindness and hospitality, and I sensed a strong sense of community wherever I went. This allowed me to explore Vlore and its surroundings with ease and confidence.

Albanians are great hosts and they really want you to have a great time.

Do you have recommendations for anyone travelling to Albania?

Try local bakeries, and eat where the locals go. Explore and discover what Albania has to offer.

Go have coffee and take a stroll along the pier, enjoy the views, connect with the locals as best as you can, and just enjoy the slow living lifestyle, the Albanian way 😉