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Henri Manushi

I was born and raised in Tirana, Albania's capital. It's changed a lot since I was kid - it still seems to change from month to month. In my early twenties I lived in Italy, but was pleased to return home - I really love Albania!

Before getting involved with the travel business I worked as a designer, but a desk job isn't really my style - I'm happiest behind the wheel of a race car or Jeep.

Now I'm a partner in a cool little travel agency which started out as a specialist in Jeep tours, so I think I've found my niche!

I love putting together tours that take people off the beaten track, and avoid the busier tourist hotspots (yes, even Albania has over-crowded resorts and tourist areas now).

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I love showing visitors the more remote parts of Albania & Kosovo in particular. Even people who have traveled extensively are amazed at how wild Albania can be. In autumn 2017 I took a Norwegian group on a Jeep safari into south-central Albania, and the only people we met for three days were shepherds and wood-cutters. I don't think there are many places left like that in Europe!

I'm also a beach lover, so know all the hidden bays on the Albanian Riviera. It's developing quickly so I do recommend you get out there before the rest of the world discovers the Albanian coast!"

How did you get involved in travel?

"Like many people, I found myself in the travel industry by accident. My day job was as a graphic designer for advertising agencies in Tirana, but my first passion was motor racing - at weekends I hill climbed a Honda Civic and each summer would act as a co-driver on Rally Albania. This led to me being offered occasional work as a driver and guide on Jeep safaris in Albania and Kosovo, and I was bitten by the travel bug! "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"It has to be co-driving on Rally Albania (I know it's not really a tour...). Rally Albania is one of the toughest off road rallies in the world, and it takes you to incredible places. Though usually at high speed, so you don't get to enjoy the scenery! I've discovered the most beautiful secret valleys and unmapped mountain roads which I'm keen to share with foreign visitors. "