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Njoftim për Shtyp: Elite Travel Group dhe NTLG/Ving & Spies, Rrisin Fluksin e Turistëve Nordikë në Jug të Shqipërisë nga 2026

marketing@etg.al — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:37:41 +0000

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Njoftim për Shtyp: Elite Travel Group partneritet me NTLG/Ving & Spies për të sjellë turistë Nordik, në Jug të Shqipërisë duke Filluar nga 2026

Posted on 19 December 2025

Elite Travel Group njofton një partneritet të suksesshëm me NTLG/Ving & Spies, kompaninë kryesore nordike të turizmit, për të sjellë sa më shumë turistë nordikë në jugun e Shqipërisë duke filluar nga viti 2026. Ky bashkëpunim ofron mundësi të reja fantastike për hotelet, apartamentet, restorantet, aktivitetet lokale dhe bizneset në këtë rajon. Vetëm pak minuta pas hapjes së destinacionit, kanë filluar të bëhen rezervime!

Me hapjen e Aeroportit të ri të Vlorës në pranverë të vitit 2026, fluturimet direkte nga vendet nordike do të bëhen realitet, duke mundësuar udhëtime më të thjeshta për turistët nga Suedia, Norvegjia, Danimarka dhe Finlanda. Ky është një hap i rëndësishëm për turizmin shqiptar, duke ofruar një rrugë më të përshtatshme udhëtimi, duke shmangur kohëzgjatjen e gjatë të transferimeve nga Korfuz dhe Janina, në Sarandë.

Fluturime Direkte për në Vlorë: Një Hap i Madh për Turizmin Shqiptar

Nga qershori i vitit 2026, NTLG/Ving dhe Spies dhe linja e saj private ajrore, Sunclass Airlines, do të operojnë fluturime direkte për në Aeroportin e Vlorës (VLO) nga Stokholmi, Oslo dhe Kopenhaga, me mundësi edhe nga Helsinki. Ving do të jetë kompania e parë ajrore nga rajoni nordik që do të ofrojë fluturime direkte për në Shqipëri, duke e bërë këtë zhvillim një ndryshim të madh për sektorin e turizmit të vendit.

Ky rrugë e re do t’u mundësojë turistëve nordikë të fluturojnë drejtpërdrejt në bregun jugor të Shqipërisë, duke siguruar një udhëtim më të lehtë dhe më efikas. Ky zhvillim jo vetëm që do të rrisë turizmin, por gjithashtu do të zgjat sezonin turistik në rajon, pasi fluturimet do të operojnë tri herë në javë (të mërkurën dhe të shtunen) me qëndrime prej 7, 14 dhe 21 ditësh. Ky partneritet do të ndihmojë në maksimizimin e shkallës së mbushjes, duke i lejuar operatorët turistikë të zvogëlojnë ditët pa vizitorë.

Një mundësi e shkëlqyer për Turizmin në Jug të Shqipërisë

Partneriteti i Elite Travel Group me NTLG/Ving dhe Spies ka si qëllim të rrisë numrin e turistëve nordikë që vizitojnë jugun e Shqipërisë, duke parashikuar 20,000 vizitorë në vitin 2026, me një rritje të pritshme deri në 80,000-90,000 deri në vitin 2028. Ky parashikim varet nga cilësia e shërbimeve që ofrojnë operatorët shqiptarë, të cilët do të përmbushin preferencat e turistëve nordikë që kërkojnë më të mirën nga klima e mrekullueshme e Shqipërisë, kuzhinën tradicionale, mikpritjen dhe eksperiencat unike të bizneseve lokale.

Hapja e Aeroportit të Vlorës do të mundësojë akses më të lehtë në disa nga plazhet më të bukura të Shqipërisë, duke përfshirë ato në Vlorë, Orikum, Dhermi dhe Sarandë, dhe më pas do të zgjerohet në destinacione të tjera të afërta si Borsh, Himarë dhe Qeparo. Elite Travel Group e sheh këtë si një mundësi për të diversifikuar dhe zgjeruar ofertat turistike të Shqipërisë, duke e bërë vendin një destinacion tërheqës gjatë gjithë vitit për turistët nordikë.

Shqipëria një destinacion shumë i kërkuar nga turistët Nordik

Me mbështetje nga Ving & Spies dhe Sunclass Airlines, Elite Travel Group është e angazhuar të kthejë jugun e Shqipërisë në një nga destinacionet më të kërkuara turistike në vitin 2026. Ky bashkëpunim premton mundësi të jashtëzakonshme për të gjithë sektorët e industrisë së turizmit të përfshihen në këtë rritje të jashtëzakonshme.

Elvis Kotherja, CEO i Elite Travel Group, dhe Krist Dodbiba, Drejtues i Shitjeve dhe Partneriteteve, janë shumë optimistë për të ardhmen, me një qëllim për të tërhequr më shumë se 200,000 klientë nordikë nga 1 marsi deri më 15 nëntor deri në vitin 2030.

Ky sukses është një hap më afër vizionit tonë për ta bërë këtë rajon dhe Shqipërinë një destinacion gjatë gjithë vitit!

Linqe:

Ving.se Njoftim për Shtyp: https://via.tt.se/pressmeddelande/4195708/ving-forst-ut-att-lansera-direktcharter-till-vlora-i-albanien-till-sommaren?publisherId=1726617&lang=sv

https://www.dagensps.se/varlden/nu-kan-du-flyga-direkt-till-medelhavets-hetaste-budgetdestination/

https://www.travelnews.se/ovrigt/forst-i-norden-ving-lanserar-direktcharter-till-albanien-via-ny-flygplatsen/

https://erhvervsfronten.dk/pressemeddelelse/spies-lancerer-som-de-foerste-direkte-charterfly-til-vlora-i-albanien/

https://www.thetravelinspector.no/news/2025/12/18/fra-oslo-direkte-til-ny-vlora-flyplass-i-albania

Pjesa nga Emisioni “Histori Shqiptare”

The post Njoftim për Shtyp: Elite Travel Group dhe NTLG/Ving & Spies, Rrisin Fluksin e Turistëve Nordikë në Jug të Shqipërisë nga 2026 appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Press Release: Elite Travel Group Partners with NTLG/Ving & Spies, to Boost Nordic Tourism to Southern Albania Starting 2026

marketing@etg.al — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:26:09 +0000

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Press Release: Elite Travel Group Partners with NTLG/Ving & Spies to Boost Nordic Tourism to Southern Albania Starting 2026

Posted on 19 December 2025

Elite Travel Group is thrilled to announce a successful partnership with NTLG/Ving & Spies, the leading Nordic travel company, to bring more Nordic tourists to the southern regions of Albania starting in 2026. This collaboration presents a fantastic new opportunity for hotels, apartments, restaurants, local activities, and businesses across the region. We’re excited to share that multiple bookings started coming in just moments after the destination went live!

With the opening of the new Vlora Airport in spring 2026, direct flights from Nordic countries will become a reality, enhancing travel options for tourists from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland. This marks a significant milestone for Albanian tourism, offering a more convenient travel route, bypassing the long transfer times from Ioannina and Corfu to Saranda.

Direct Flights to Vlora: A Major Step for Albanian Tourism

From June 2026, NTLG/Ving & Spies and its airline partner, Sunclass Airlines, will operate direct flights to Vlora Airport (VLO) from Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen, with additional options from Helsinki. Ving & Spies will be the first airline from the Nordic region to offer direct flights to Albania, making this development a game-changer for the country’s tourism sector.

This new route will enable Nordic tourists to fly directly to the southern Albanian coastline, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey. The improved access will not only boost tourism but also extend the tourist season in the region, as the flights will operate three times a week (Wednesdays and Saturday) with stay durations of 7, 14, and 21 nights. This structure will help maximize occupancy rates, allowing tourism operators to minimize off-peak days.

A Thriving Future for Southern Albania’s Tourism

Elite Travel Group’s partnership with NTLG/Ving & Spies, aims to increase the number of Nordic tourists visiting southern Albania, projecting 10,000 visitors in 2026, with an expected rise to 80,000-90,000 by 2028. This forecast depends on the quality of service offered by Albanian operators, who will cater to the preferences of Nordic tourists seeking the best of Albania’s stunning climate, traditional cuisine, welcoming hospitality, and unique local experiences.

The opening of Vlora Airport will further facilitate access to some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches, including those in Vlora, Orikum, Dhermi, and Saranda, and will eventually expand to other nearby destinations such as Borsh, Himarë, and Qeparo. Elite Travel Group sees this as an exciting opportunity to diversify and expand Albania’s tourism offerings, making it a year-round destination for Nordic travelers.

A Bright Future for Tourism in Southern Albania

With support from Ving & Spies and their Sunclass Airlines, Elite Travel Group is committed to turning southern Albania into one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in 2026. The collaboration promises incredible opportunities for all sectors of the tourism industry to be involved in this extraordinary growth.

Elvis Kotherja, CEO of Elite Travel Group, and Krist Dodbiba, Head of Sales and Partnerships, are both highly optimistic about the future, with a goal of attracting over 100,000 Nordic clients from March 1st to November 15th by 2030.

This success is a step forward in our vision to make the region and Albania a year-round destination!

Links:

Press Release: https://via.tt.se/pressmeddelande/4195708/ving-forst-ut-att-lansera-direktcharter-till-vlora-i-albanien-till-sommaren?publisherId=1726617&lang=sv

https://www.dagensps.se/varlden/nu-kan-du-flyga-direkt-till-medelhavets-hetaste-budgetdestination/

https://www.travelnews.se/ovrigt/forst-i-norden-ving-lanserar-direktcharter-till-albanien-via-ny-flygplatsen/

https://erhvervsfronten.dk/pressemeddelelse/spies-lancerer-som-de-foerste-direkte-charterfly-til-vlora-i-albanien/

https://www.thetravelinspector.no/news/2025/12/18/fra-oslo-direkte-til-ny-vlora-flyplass-i-albania

Part from History Shqiptare Documentary about Elite Travel Group:

The post Press Release: Elite Travel Group Partners with NTLG/Ving & Spies, to Boost Nordic Tourism to Southern Albania Starting 2026 appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Behind the Scenes: How Elite Travel LCC Tirana Became the Newest Member of the LCC Family

marketing@etg.al — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:16:59 +0000

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Behind the Scenes: How Elite Travel LCC Tirana Became the Newest Member of the LCC Family

Posted on 24 November 2025

As the Lufthansa City Center (LCC) network continues to expand worldwide, we are pleased to welcome our newest member: Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center Tirana. This office represents the second LCC unit of Elite Travel Group, joining the already established Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center Elbasan. Together, these two offices strengthen the presence of the LCC network in the Albanian market while offering clients an even broader range of professional travel services.

Elite Travel LCC Tirana brings a fresh perspective supported by strong local expertise, advanced in-house technology, and a modern approach to corporate and leisure travel management. Their entry into the global LCC community adds valuable regional insight and contributes to the network’s continued growth and diversification.

To introduce the team behind this new office, our collague, Ardit Dervishi, Head of Business Development at Elite Travel LCC gave a short interview. In the conversation below, he shares how the company first connected with the LCC network, what motivated them to join, and how their tech-driven service model helps them stand out in Albania.

We invite you to read the interview and get to know our newest member better. :

Lufthansa City Center Headquarters conducted an exclusive interview with Mr. Ardit Dervishi, Head of Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center (part of Elite Travel Group)

How did you get to know Lufthansa City Center?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: Through long standing cooperation with LCC members and direct talks with LCC HQ about corporate travel, NDC adoption, and shared procurement.

Why did you join the LCC family?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: To combine our local market strength in Albania with the global reach, standards, and tools of LCC. We want to deliver better corporate travel outcomes through common tech, quality frame-works, and partner synergies.

What do you expect from your LCC membership for the upcoming years?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: Knowledge sharing, joint corporate bids, improved airline terms via NDC, benchmarking on operations and QA, and co marketing for inbound to Albania and outbound corporate travel across the region.

What makes you stand out in your local market – what is your USP (Unique Selling Proposition)?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: A tech driven corporate travel model anchored in our in house ERP and automation. We are integrating NDC content, policy control, duty of care, and finance flows for faster ticketing, lower total cost, and clean reporting.

How do you treat your clients better than other travel agencies?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: Response time targets, proactive fare watching, clear SLAs, and finance friendly invoicing. We map each client journey from request to reconciliation and remove manual steps with bots and API links.

Which success are you most proud of?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: Leading a B2B consolidator powered by skilled agents, rolling out new tech to boost efficiency and accuracy, while consistently growing corporate revenue.

What was your favourite personal travel experience and why?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: A multi stop Europe Asia trip where perfect rebooking during disruption showed how strong operations and good partners turn stress into a smooth experience.

What is the best experience a traveller can have in your home country?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: A coastal and heritage loop. Riviera beaches, UNESCO sites, Mediterranean food, and warm hospitality within short driving distances.

Why should I visit your home town?

Mr. Ardit Dervishi: Vibrant cafe culture, fast growing business scene, and easy access to mountains and sea. It is ideal for both short breaks and meetings.

The post Behind the Scenes: How Elite Travel LCC Tirana Became the Newest Member of the LCC Family appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center Participated in the Lufthansa City Center General Assembly 2025 in Malta

marketing@etg.al — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:02:38 +0000

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Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center Participated in the Lufthansa City Center General Assembly 2025 in Malta

Posted on 19 November 2025

Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center, (part of Elite Travel Group), was pleased to participate in the Lufthansa City Center (LCC) General Assembly 2025, held from 7–10 November at The Westin Dragonara Resort in Malta. Our Managing Director and LCC Advisory Board Member, Elvis Kotherja, represented Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center throughout the event.

This year’s Assembly, themed “ImpACT,” brought together 500 participants from 78 countries. The program explored several key topics shaping the future of the travel industry, including next-generation traveler expectations, Artificial Intelligence, Mindfulness, and global geopolitical developments.

Highlights from the General Assembly

Over four days, attendees followed keynote sessions from international speakers such as:

Yaël Meier, Gen Z strategist and co-founder of ZEAM
Julius van de Laar, political strategist
Mark Schulman, motivational speaker and musician

Panels and workshops addressed a wide range of themes, including AI-driven sales tools, VR/AR training methods, shifting traveler behavior, mindful leadership approaches, and the impact of global geopolitical trends on both leisure and corporate travel.

A notable moment of the event was the joint presentation by LCC Managing Directors Markus Orth and Heiko Brix, who introduced “ImpACT 2030”—a long-term strategic framework focused on innovation, sustainability, and stronger global collaboration across the LCC network.

A Global Network Moving Forward

With more than 600 LCC offices in 110 countries, the Assembly remained an important platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening partnerships, and exploring new opportunities. This year’s edition brought together nearly 100 business travel experts, 66 DMC representatives, and numerous international partners.

Photo Copyright: Sebastian Gabsch Fotografie
https://lufthansa-city-center.com/

The post Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center Participated in the Lufthansa City Center General Assembly 2025 in Malta appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Elite Travel Group Enhances Travel Experience with the First 0KM Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Coach in Albania

marketing@etg.al — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:41:09 +0000

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Elite Travel Group Enhances Travel Experience with the First 0KM Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Coach in Albania

Posted on 07 July 2025

For the past 25 years, since we first started this business, we’ve understood that transportation is one of the most critical factors in ensuring exceptional travel experiences. Our commitment to providing luxurious, comfortable, and safe journeys has driven us to continuously invest in our fleet, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is as memorable as the destinations we explore.

We are proud to announce the addition of a brand-new, 0KM Mercedes-Benz Tourismo 16 RHD Coach, the first of its kind in Albania. This luxurious coach, delivered to us by our esteemed partner Auto Star Albania, sets a new standard for quality and safety in travel, both in Albania and beyond.

The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo is renowned for its advanced features, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional comfort. With its spacious and meticulously designed interiors, passengers will enjoy a smooth and relaxing ride, whether embarking on a short excursion or a multi-day tour. Equipped with top-tier amenities, this coach offers unparalleled comfort, ensuring that every journey is as enjoyable as it is safe.

Why Transportation Matters?
At Elite Travel Group, we know that a successful trip is defined not just by the sights you see but by the journey itself. Transportation plays a key role in ensuring our guests enjoy a seamless, luxurious experience from start to finish. Our investment in state-of-the-art vehicles reflects our dedication to offering only the best. From modern interiors to advanced safety features, the new Mercedes-Benz Tourismo is more than just a means of transportation—it’s part of our ongoing effort to elevate the overall experience for all our travelers.

Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Albania or venturing to one of our international destinations, we are committed to ensuring that your journey is an everlasting experience.

The post Elite Travel Group Enhances Travel Experience with the First 0KM Mercedes-Benz Tourismo Coach in Albania appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Sustainable Tourism in Albania: The Path Forward

marketing@etg.al — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:37:58 +0000

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Sustainable Tourism in Albania: The Path Forward

Posted on 04 July 2025

At Elite Travel Group, we’re passionate about shaping a sustainable future for tourism in Albania.

Recently, we had the honor of participating in a key project with the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE), exploring how Albania can thrive as a sustainable tourism destination.

The final conference, held on June 27th, 2025, brought together experts, students, and tourism professionals to discuss the balance between protecting Albania’s natural and cultural treasures and fostering responsible tourism. From cultural heritage preservation to nature-based tourism and rural infrastructure development, the discussions were forward-thinking and inspiring.

The opening was warmly welcomed by Prof. Dr. Matthias Barth, President of the University of Eberswalde, setting the tone for a day of deep insights and meaningful collaboration.

Prof. Dr. Anila Paparisto, Vice-Rector for Research and International Cooperation at the University of Tirana, also gave a special greeting, reinforcing the importance of sustainable development in Albania.

The opening welcome was delivered by Prof. Dr. Esmeralda Kromidha, the designer of the research program and Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, University of Tirana, alongside Dr. Drita Rira, Vice-Dean and Erasmus+ Academic Coordinator, whose contributions set a solid foundation for the discussions.

Rashela Kotherja from Elite Travel Group proudly represented us on the panel alongside other industry experts such as Ulrike Katz from DRV, Ryan Fuller from ITB Berlin, and Ambassador Adia Sakiqi, the Ambassador of Albania in Germany.

The session, moderated by our dear friend Prof. Dr. Claudia C. Broezel from HNEE, emphasized the importance of empowering future tourism leaders to make sustainable decisions and contribute to Albania’s long-term tourism strategy.

As a TravelLife certified company since 2022, we are excited to be part of this transformative journey and look forward to implementing the ideas from the conference to ensure Albania remains a sustainable and responsible destination for travelers worldwide.

Elite Travel Group – pjesë e Paktit Global të Organizatës së Kombeve të Bashkuara

etg — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:15:33 +0000

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Elite Travel Group – pjesë e Paktit Global të Organizatës së Kombeve të Bashkuara

Posted on 26 July 2023

Pakti Global i Kombeve të bashkuara është iniciativa më e madhe dhe autoriteti më i madh botëror që punon dhe ndihmon në përmirësimin e qëndrueshmërisë dhe përgjegjësive sociale të korporatave, pjesë e të cilës është edhe Elite Travel Group.

Cili është qëllimi i Paktit Global të Organizatës së Kombeve të Bashkuara?

Sipas unglobalcompact.org: “Ambicia jonë është: Të përshpejtojmë dhe shkallëzojmë ndikimin kolektiv global të biznesit duke mbështetur Dhjetë Parimet dhe duke ofruar Objektivat e Zhvillimit të Qëndrueshëm përmes kompanive dhe ekosistemeve të përgjegjshme që mundësojnë ndryshimin.”

PGiOKB synon të mbështesë kompanitë teksa ato përafrojnë praktikat e tyre për një të ardhme të qëndrueshme dhe gjithëpërfshirëse, ndërsa ato marrin veten dhe rriten pas pandemisë Covid-19. Ai mbetet autoriteti i vetëm normativ global dhe pikë referimi për veprim dhe udhëheqje brenda një lëvizjeje globale të qëndrueshmërisë së korporatave në rritje.

10 Parimet:

Dhjetë Parimet e Paktit Global të OKB-së

Dhjetë Parimet e Paktit Global të Kombeve të Bashkuara rrjedhin nga: Deklarata Universale e të Drejtave të Njeriut , Deklarata e Organizatës Ndërkombëtare të Punës mbi Parimet dhe të Drejtat Themelore në Punë , Deklarata e Rios për Mjedisin dhe Zhvillimin dhe Konventa e Kombeve të Bashkuara Kundër Korrupsionit .

Të drejtat e njeriut

Parimi 1 : Bizneset duhet të mbështesin dhe respektojnë mbrojtjen e të drejtave të njeriut të shpallura ndërkombëtarisht; dhe

Parimi 2 : Bizneset sigurohen që ata të mos jenë bashkëpunëtorë në shkeljet e të drejtave të njeriut.

Punës

Parimi 3 : Bizneset duhet të mbrojnë lirinë e asociimit dhe njohjen efektive të së drejtës për negociata kolektive;

Parimi 4 : Eliminimi i të gjitha formave të punës së detyruar dhe të detyruar;

Parimi 5 : Heqja efektive e punës së fëmijëve; dhe

Parimi 6 : Eliminimi i diskriminimit në lidhje me punësimin dhe profesionin.

Mjedisi

Parimi 7 : Bizneset duhet të mbështesin një qasje paraprake ndaj sfidave mjedisore;

Parimi 8 : Ndërmarrja e iniciativave për të promovuar përgjegjësi më të madhe mjedisore; dhe

Parimi 9 : Inkurajimi i zhvillimit dhe përhapjes së teknologjive miqësore me mjedisin.

Kundër Korrupsionit

Parimi 10 : Bizneset duhet të punojnë kundër korrupsionit në të gjitha format e tij, duke përfshirë zhvatjen dhe ryshfetin.

Misioni ynë

T’u japim njerëzve më të mirën e Ballkanit dhe Evropës Lindore. Ta arrijmë në një mënyrë të qëndrueshme, duke punuar me njerëzit vendas për t’i lënë komunitetet më të pasura.

Vlerat tona

Biznesi ynë është i ndërtuar mbi respekt. Respekt për planetin, respekt për partnerët tanë dhe respekt për klientët tanë. Ne nuk duam vetëm të bëjmë biznes, ne duam të bëjmë miq ndërsa rritemi.

Ne jemi inovativë, gjithmonë në kërkim të mënyrave të reja për të minimizuar gjurmën tonë. Duke qenë të besueshëm, të ndershëm dhe transparent, ne sigurohemi që fjala jonë është besa jonë. Dhe duke u fokusuar te cilësia, ne sigurohemi që po ofrojmë biznes të përsëritur, i cili ndërton një të ardhme të qëndrueshme. Është një mënyrë krejtësisht e re për të përjetuar biznesin e udhëtimit.

The post Elite Travel Group – pjesë e Paktit Global të Organizatës së Kombeve të Bashkuara appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

UNESCO in ALBANIA: The worldwide protected Albanian treasures

etg — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:41:17 +0000

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UNESCO in ALBANIA: The worldwide protected Albanian treasures

Posted on 6 April 2023

Albanian culture represents indescribable value for the Albanian people, the country, and the region. Parts of this culture have a special place; they are paramount to the world heritage and serve as a testimony of the way of living of civilization, bearing great values. For this reason, we mustn’t lose them, but preserve and maintain them, and pass along the knowledge, so the next generations can understand and value their culture, proudly inherit their identity, improve and get inspired by these models of civilization. For this culture not to get lost, UNESCO has included, up until now, eight Albanian treasures in its lists of world heritage.

What is UNESCO?

After the second world war, terror and separation left a mark of incredible pain on the world’s memory. To secure peace, understanding, and sustainability in the world, The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization was founded in 1945. UNESCO‘s mission is to contribute to building a culture of peace, eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue.

Albania on The World Heritage List

Butrinti

Yes, this is Butrint of the “Twelfth Night”, otherwise known, as one of the favorite resting places for the Greco-Roman aristocracy of ancient times. It is located 25 km from the city of Saranda and extends from the shores of the Ionian Sea of the Delvina field. For the combination of the diverse natural landscapes with the remains and ancient artifacts of the Greco-Roman culture, Butrint enjoys the status of a golden name in the history of Albanian archaeology, the historical part is part of UNESCO since 1992, while the lake of Butrint is an Area Specially Protected, according to the Barcelona Convention of 1995. Here you can even see large blocks with Pelasgian inscriptions. Observing the historical points and enjoying the natural beauty are undoubtedly the primary and most important activities when visiting Butrint. Butrint is the historical evidence of the continuity of cultures that have affected the area, from the Greek period to the Middle Ages.

Berat and Gjirokastra historical centers

Berat and Gjirokastra are early settlements of southern Albania and their fortified historical centers, with the one-over-the-other house architecture of the Ottoman style, influenced by the ancient culture, but also because they have been and continue to be inhabited, they have crucial values for their period. Berat is well known for the grand castle, the two historical neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, the stone bridge, the blue river Osum that divides them, etc. Gjirokastra, known as the stone city, with its gray pitched roofs, cobbled streets, the extraordinary panorama of characteristic two-story houses, its historic bazaar, and the beauty of the landscape. These historical centers are filled with rare beauty and precious values.

Ohrid Lake

Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest lakes in Europe and the world. Its age is estimated between 4 and 10 million years old and is of tectonic origin. The green waters are home to over 200 endemic species. Since the beginning of time, the lake has served as a source of life, communities, and civilizations have developed around it, and today two modern states lie around it. This is the deepest lake in the Balkans. The lake offers spectacular views and in Pogradec, it has traditionally served as a beach spot. You can spend your summer vacation, go for a relaxing day, enjoy the fantastic cuisine of the area, go fishing, or go boating on the lake.

Gashi River and Rrajca

Two natural treasures of Albania are part of a wealth shared between eighteen European countries. Gashi River and Rrajca are on UNESCO’s list of Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe. Rrajca represents a unique ecosystem near the border with North Macedonia, almost entirely untouched, rich in extraordinary landscapes and rare biodiversity. The Balkan Lynx can be found here too. Gashi River, on the other hand, is located in the north, near Valbona. A great amount of the area is covered in Beech forests. This area offers wonderful views, where the landscape of mountains merges with cold, crystal waters, and the greenery of the trees.

Albania on the Intangible Heritage List

Albanian iso-polyphony

Albanian iso-polyphony has been declared by UNESCO as an oral and spiritual heritage of the world. This way of singing, which is thought to have been inherited from ancient times, has a special technique and is a rare skill. Iso-polyphony has accompanied the Albanian people in history in the happiest and saddest moments, since we see that it is sung in times of sorrow, but also in times of joy. It is thought and accepted that the true origin place of Albanian iso-polyphony is the south, but can also be found in the north of the country. Those who listen say that this way of singing lifts the heart and fills it with unusual emotions. The melody, the technical difficulty, and the rich history make the iso-polyphonic song monumental.

Xhubleta, craftsmanship, and how is used

There are many legends about the origin, shape, and reasons why xhubleta is presented to us in such a form. One thing is certain, xhubleta comes from antiquity and is Albania’s passport in the field of ethnic costume design. This unusual suit takes its name from the emblematic, wrinkled bell-like shape of the skirt. Others think that the shapes of the costume, made with shajak straps are a tribute to the Albanian Alps. With an ensemble of delicate and original decorations, xhubleta combines colors with early decorative symbols that can be traced back in time to the Illyrians and even to the Crete-Mycenaean culture. However, xhubleta is important as evidence of the continuity of early ancient culture, but also for the craftsmanship of making it and how is used, a culture which unfortunately is in danger of being lost. As the latest Albanian cultural element included in UNESCO, xhubleta is in the attention of all authorities to be preserved as evidence of the way of life and millennial companion of highlands women.

Albania in the Memory of the World Collection

Codex Purpureus Beratinus

The Purple Codex of Berat (known as Codex Purpureus Beratinus) are two gospels found in Berat that belong to the group of seven purple codices that survive in the world today. Beratinus 1 belongs to the sixth century and represents one of the four oldest archetypes of the New Testament; is of great importance for understanding the development of biblical and liturgical literature in the world. Beratinus 2 belongs to the ninth century. Both codices are a precious asset that today, after restoration and replication for study and cultural reasons, are kept in the National Archives of Albania.

The post UNESCO in ALBANIA: The worldwide protected Albanian treasures appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

A journey toward sustainability

etg — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 08:35:06 +0000

Blog /A journey towards sustainability

Posted on 15 Jan 2020

Travelife: a journey towards sustainability

Sustainability integration in business is slowly starting to increase because companies are beginning to realize that they can be more successful by doing good.

But what does sustainability mean in business?

Seeing this great impact of the sustainability strategies, we decided that it was time to incorporate one in our company as well. That is how we found out about Travelife. Travelife is a sustainability system, founded in 2007, which promotes sustainable practices in the travel and tourism industry. This program includes three stages:

The two main categories that are influenced by sustainability in business are society and the environment. A sustainable business must have a strategy to positively affect these fields. On the contrary, if they do not claim responsibility it can bring up issues such as environmental damage and social injustice.

Travelife Engaged
Travelife Partner
Travelife Certified

Since March 2019, Elite Travel Group is a Travelife Partner and since February 2022 Travelife Certified.

What are ETG's aspirations?

As we are about to be the first Albanian company Travelife certified, we know how important it is to have common sense and to care for social life, for the economy of the area and region in which we live, and, last but not least, care about the environment. Sustainability as a concept comes with different challenges in different countries. Since we are considered a country under development, our biggest focus remains on the social aspect. We are pioneering the sustainable policies in Albania, through our public and social activities, society-building concepts through education and training for the young, teacher communities, and the suppliers. We strongly believe that education is the best means by which we can provide the support to tackle the economic and environmental aspects. We know that we alone cannot change the place we live in, but alone we can inspire others and be copied by them, to make today better than yesterday.

What are our achievements so far and what are we planning?

It is worth emphasizing some of our most remarkable moments in this journey towards sustainability. During October 2019 we had the Green Month at our office, which consisted of weekly activities to improve the environment. In the photos below you can see some of them:

Limiting elevator usage

Something else that we are doing currently is limiting the usage of the elevator at our headquarters. In this way, we can save electricity and encourage our employees to be more active.

The post A journey toward sustainability appeared first on Elite Travel Group.

Permiresimi i Standardeve

etg — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 14:03:18 +0000

News/përmirësimi i standardeve të udhëtimit

Posted on 11 Jan 2020

Përmirësimi i standardeve të agjencive të udhëtimit me ETG

Bashkëpunim midis Elite Travel Group, Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center & Elite Academy, Lufthansa City Center, Sabre dhe Futouris

Duke punuar për Elite Coaching, një nga qëllimet tona ishte edhe trajnimi i agjensive të udhëtimit në Shqipëri. Prandaj, Elite Travel Group nisi këtë projekt me Lufthansa City Center, Sabre dhe Futouris për të përmirësuar standardet në agjensitë e udhëtimeve në Shqipëri. Qëllimi ishte të ndihmonim agjensitë e udhëtimit shqiptare të përmirësojnë profesionalizmin e tyre në këtë industri.

Si u implementua projekti?

Në këtë projekt, u trajnuan 40 agjensi udhëtimi në mënyrë që ata të mund të rrisin shitjet e tyre. Prandaj, duke u rikualifikuar, ata u bënë të aftë të përdorin sistemet e nevojshme për çdo agjensi udhëtimi në tregun aktual.

Së pari, ata u trajnuan për të përdorur Sistemin Global të Shpërndarjes (GDS). Ky rrjet i kompjuterizuar i bën shumë më të lehta transaksionet ndërmjet ofruesve të shërbimeve të udhëtimit dhe agjentëve të udhëtimit.

Më tej, ata u trajnuan të përdorin mjete të IT, siç janë Menaxheri i Marrëdhënieve me Konsumatorët (CRM), për të lehtësuar njohuritë mbi klientët dhe segmentimin e tyre, si dhe për të krijuar marrëdhënie afatgjata me ta.

Së fundmi, ata u trajnuan për të përdorur mjetet e menaxhimit të udhëtimit në mënyrë që proceset e rezervimit të bëhen më të thjeshta dhe të shpejta. E gjithë kjo, jo vetëm që përmirëson rrjedhën e punës në këto agjensi, por gjithashtu i ndihmon ata të ofrojnë eksperiencën më të mirë për klientin. Prandaj, nuk do të jetë më e nevojshme që këto agjensi të përdorin mënyrën tradicionale të rezervimit të biletave përmes stafit të Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center.

Në fund të këtij trajnimi, ata të gjithë ishin të kualifikuar dhe arritën synimet e tyre për shitjet.

Rezultatet

2020 ka qenë një vit shumë sfidues për agjentët dhe Elite Travel Lufthansa City Center. Sidoqoftë, arritëm një xhiro prej 1.7 milion euro. Kjo është ekuivalente me 50% të shitjeve të sezonit 2019.

Gjatë Janarit dhe Shkurtit të vitit 2020, pati një rritje rekord përkatësisht prej 200% dhe 170%. Këto rezultate tregojnë se në përgjithësi projekti për të përmirësuar standardet në agjensitë e udhëtimeve në Shqipëri, ka qenë shumë i suksesshëm, veçanërisht duke patur parasysh rrethanat e këtij viti të vështirë.

Na ndiqni për përditësime mbi projektet tona të ardhshme!

The post Permiresimi i Standardeve appeared first on Elite Travel Group.