Albania

Albania has had strict isolationist policies imposed by its leaders for much of the past 70 years. On the positive side of that, it has a unique national character and spots of unsoiled natural beauty, such as its beaches on the Ionian Coast. Bazaars offer traditional merchandise like hand-woven kilim rugs.

The soil and access to water are excellent, so organic farming has a chance to really take off. Grapes and olives are some top crops, and there is award-winning organic olive oil made in Albania. Along with grilled meats and veal, you can find stuffed peppers, fish, vegetables like eggplant, qifqi (rice balls fried with egg and herbs), and local wine to wash it down with. Italian food is an influence on Albanian cuisine, and pasta and pizza are easy to find. In the capital, Tirane, there are even a few Chinese restaurants to add a little variety to the diets of vegetarians and omnivores alike.