God it seems like ages ago since I was in Albania...
I had a interesting chat with a Albanian / Canadian guy on my last night in the country, I asked why if the country is so poor how come there are so many flash cars being driven around? The answer 2 reasons: organised crime and (related) most are stolen from other European countries. You see GB plated BMW's and Audi's everywhere the "owner" just can't take it out of Albania.
Seems ages ago since Albania
Rushed through Montenegro, 2 days, small country and quite nice. A lot more friendly and nice roads.
Have been in Croatia now for two days, and struggling. I feel quite fatigued (mentally) and just can't seem to put in the miles that I'm used to doing. I'm getting tired of the daily routine and even though I know I'm on the last leg of the trip I just don't feel motivated. Will give myself a good talking to tonight and back to normal tomorrow I'm sure.
First night in Croatia was in a small town just before Dubrovnik, nice and relaxed. Took the ferry to Dubrovnik old city (this was the problem, I was thinking on the ferry that this is the first time I was being transported and I wasn't doing anything, ie not riding, and it felt great, in fact I fell asleep. It dawned on me that for months I have been going through this routine everyday and here I was just sitting there not having to do a thing. Not very articulate I know maybe I'm starting to lose the plot.)
Anyway the old city is so beautiful, shame about all the expensive resturants and designer shops. The whole coastline is very scenic and can understand why croatia has become a big draw for tourism. I am staying tonight in a small fishing village about 50km from Split. Have to get my skates on tomorrow.