Geography and population: Albania is a country in the south-eastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula and spans across an area of 28,748 km ². The neighboring countries include Macedonia, Greece, Kosovo, Serbia, and Montenegro. Its western side is flanked by the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea borders its south-western side. It has a population of 2,994,667 as per 2011 census. Albanians constitute 97% of the population, followed by 1% Greeks.
The remaining 2% is comprised of Vlachos, Roma, Serbs, Macedonians, Balkan Egyptians, and Bulgarians. Capital: The capital of Albania is Tirana which is also the largest city. It occupies an area of 16 sq. miles and has a population of about 800,000. It is bound by the Dajti Mountain to the east and the Tirana River runs through the city. Tirana is the center of the social, political, economic, educational and cultural life of the country.
Climate: The climate of Albania is predominantly mild. The lowlands have a Mediterranean climate with cool summers and rainy winters. The highlands however are cold and experience snowfall from November until March.
Language: The Language is Albanian. Besides, the people speak Italian and English as well.
Religions: The major religions of Albania are Islam and Christianity. In Albania 70% are Muslims, 20% are Albanian Orthodox Christians, and the remaining 10% are Roman Catholics.
Currency: The currency of Albania is called Lek and is issued by the Bank of Albania. Frequently used are coins with denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Lek. Similarly, most frequently used banknotes are of 200, 500, 1000 Lek.
1 US$ = 109.7 Lek (approx.)
1 € = 135.7 Lek (approx.)
Society: The country has a strong culture which students are likely to participate in while living here. The strong history here is also a key component and it is evident on everything from the country's architecture to the religious elements present. The countryside is remote and lush. They make for the ideal opportunity for the individual to explore the natural beauty of this area. However, in the larger cities, every modern amenity is available including access to the Internet.
For more detailed information please refer to: http://www.mapsofworld.com/albania/facts.html