After several visits to Albania over the years, 50-year-old American Craig Zieves has made a life-changing decision: to move permanently to the small Balkan country he now calls home. Zieves has purchased a house in the quiet village of Gështenjas, near Pogradec, where he has been living for the past seven months.
 |
| Craig Zieves, while being interviewed by Euronews Albania |
Having explored much of southern Albania—from the historic towns of Berat and Gjirokastër to the stunning coastal cities of Saranda and Vlorë, and the mountainous beauty of Korçë—Zieves is still eager to discover more. “I’ve seen nearly everything in the south. Berat, Gjirokastër, Saranda, Vlorë, Përmet, Korçë. I’ve been all over southern Albania, but I haven’t visited the north yet. I can’t wait to explore it,” he says.
His daily life is a mix of digital work, tending to his apple trees, and creating content for social media. He is part of an online community of expats and locals who produce videos about life in Albania, with Zieves focusing particularly on historical aspects of the country. “I’m always busy, never a dull moment. Maybe I’ll even start my own business,” he hints.
Zieves also has a heartfelt message for Albanians, especially those considering leaving their country:
“You have one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Albania is improving every day. I’ve seen extraordinary progress over the past five years. There are many reasons to stay. People here enjoy freedom, and that’s one of the best things about the Western world. If you leave and like the place you go to, that’s great—but Albania is fantastic too. I think there are many opportunities here. Maybe one day soon you’ll even be in the EU,” he says with optimism.
When asked if he sees his future in Albania for good, Zieves replies with a smile:
“I don’t plan to leave. If I get married… it’ll be here.”
His story reflects a growing trend of foreigners discovering Albania not just as a travel destination, but as a place to live, work, and dream long-term.