For this experience we will meet at Vila Shijaku, which is located in the old part of Tirana. Here a barista will show you how traditional Albanian coffee is prepared, following old preparation steps. You are more then welcome to lend a helping hand or just watch from the comfort of the couch. First you will get explanations about the coffee tradition in Albania and its history and afterwards start preparing it. This includes filling the coffee roaster, roasting the beans over the fire, grinding the beans with hand, brewing the coffee and then of course enjoying a hot fresh cup in the living room of the old villa or in the beautiful green yard (depends on weather and desire). Everything is done by hand and fire and with traditional equipment. You can afterwards have a look around the villa and the paintings of the family or relax in the yard.
Through this activity we try to create a more sustainable Tirana, through sustainable tourism development and inclusion of local stakeholders (GSTC A10). The barista has a broad knowledge and skills and will pass on their knowledge to you, so you will learn how to use the equipment and develop new skills yourself. Because the activity will be done in small groups, a maximum of 10 participants or individually, there will be a better communication and assistance between every participant and the barista (GSTC A9). We only employ local people (from Tirana and the surroundings) (GSTC B2). Furthermore, participants get the opportunity to see authentic Albanian culture and traditions (GSTC C3), while through every experience booked, cultural heritage is preserved and protected (through passing on knowledge) (GSTC C2). The images we show are real pictures of the coffee experience that you will do (GSTC A6).
Destination engagement (A10)
Information and Interpretation (A9) Local employment (B2) Protecting cultural heritage (C2))
Presenting culture and heritage (C3) Accurate promotion (A6)
