It has definitely become somewhat my hobby this year to go out there into the unknown with a purpose to get lost. With all the modern technology surrounding us these days it is becoming increasingly hard to even accomplish such triviality.
Most of us can't imagine going to the toilet without a phone. Imagine those typical Instagram junkies going out of their home without an internet connection. Impossible. I must say I do have a phone with me most of the times too. But it is rather productivity tool than my master. The tiny little cameras got so much better in last few years that it counts for a decent compact camera from canon or alike...
The other point I should make here is those places I am drawn to are usually out of the reach of mobile signal anyways. So I am forced to use my phone as a camera only. And yes, on special occasions I carry around my old school Fujifilm x100, one of the best ever made compact cameras out there.
Now let's get to the trip itself. I am still reporting on my time we'll spend in Shkoder, Albania. It has really awesome and famous lake Shkoder next to the sizable city. And I did enjoyed it a lot. But this time I was headed to another one. A man made damm in the mountains nearby.
Guarded by a war victims memorial the gateway to my destination looks awesomely Albanian. The country is one big war museum really. Specially with ever-present bunkers popping up at places you would have never expected. The asphalt road I am pushing my bike on is alright, sometimes bit sketchy, due to crazy local drivers. A picture of motorcyclist with candles next to the road is no surprise.
Yet again I am getting myself into the neighborhood of tabacco growers. They are know for being somewhat hardcore people. The atmosphere is getting tense and asfalt road ends right there.
After few kilometers I finally reach the desired lake and look for a spot to go for swim without being disturbed by other bywatchers, kids or anybody really. After such a long ride in flipflops and hot summer day, my ass is well massaged from the bicycle seat and I can't think of anything else than jumping into the water.
On my way back I ran out of water and I am than forced to look for one restaurant with amazing terrace overlooking the lake, which somebody recommended me the day before.
Few hills away, some rocky roads and endless tabacco fields I did found it and boy, was it well worth the struggle...
So I have recovered with this ice cold Montenegrin beer, amused my senses with the beautiful surroundings and recharged for the way back to the basecamp. If you're ever in Albania, don't miss out on Shkoder. My favourite Albanian city.
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