In a heartwarming display of endurance, connection, and love for their homeland, two brothers from Gjilan, Visari and Shkëlqim Korbi, have undertaken an extraordinary journey: a cycling trip spanning approximately 1,500 kilometers, from Switzerland all the way to Kosovo.
The brothers, who have lived apart in different European countries for years, began planning this adventure more than two years ago. Their dream has finally become a reality this summer, as they pedal their way home across multiple borders, landscapes, and memories.
Though physically apart in their daily lives, Visari and Shkëlqim reunited in Zagreb, Croatia, as a symbolic midpoint, before continuing their journey together toward Gjilan. Their meeting point in the Croatian capital marked not only a geographical rendezvous but also an emotional one, underscoring the deep bond that connects them.
They set off last Friday and estimate their arrival in Kosovo will be this coming Monday. The brothers have shared parts of their journey online, offering a glimpse into both the challenges and the joy that come with long-distance cycling—riding under the sun, through mountain passes, and over quiet rural roads that stitch together the heart of Europe.
But their trip is not merely about physical endurance. For the Korbi brothers, it is a deeply personal voyage—one that blends nostalgia, identity, and a yearning to reconnect with their roots. “This is not just a cycling trip,” they said, “it’s a way for us to feel every kilometer between our current lives abroad and the home we carry in our hearts.”
Their journey reflects a broader narrative shared by many members of the Albanian diaspora: the longing to return, to reconnect, and to celebrate heritage. For many migrants who left Kosovo in search of better opportunities, the idea of “returning home” is more than a summer vacation—it's an emotional pilgrimage.
The Korbi brothers’ journey has also resonated with others in the community. Messages of encouragement and admiration have poured in on social media, with many calling their feat inspirational. They represent a generation of Albanians living abroad who, despite distance and time, remain tied to their cultural identity and homeland.
As they approach the final leg of their odyssey, the Korbi brothers remind us of something profound—that sometimes the road home is the longest, but also the most rewarding. Through sweat, effort, and heart, they are cycling not only across countries, but across memories, emotions, and shared history.
Their arrival in Kosovo will not only mark the end of a remarkable physical achievement, but also the culmination of a journey of the soul—where two brothers, from two different corners of Europe, meet in the middle and ride home together.