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An American living abroad has explained why she chose to leave one of the most varied and economically successful states in the U.S. for a city in Europe at the age of 52.
In 2023, Cheryl Orlov parted with most of her belongings, such as her house and cars, loaded eight suitcases, and took a ‘life-altering’ step by relocating to a different region.
Having invested more than 32 years operating a furniture store in the South Bay area ofCalifornia, Orlov acknowledged that she led a ‘comfortable’ life with family and friends, yet experienced an unquenchable ‘desire’ to travel.
However, even though the business owner has visited more than 40 countries across all seven continents over the years, there were several locations that had not yet been considered – like Albania.
After ending a relationship in March 2022, she chose to seize the moment and relocate to Tirana, the capital of Albania.
Writing for International LivingIn March, Orlov mentioned that she first learned about the country by reading articles and watching videos about remote locations.
She started investigating the popular vacation destination and was amazed by its relaxed way of life, its varied natural scenery, and the exceptional kindness of the locals.
In September 2022, Orlov arranged a scouting journey to Albania, where she was deeply impressed by the country’s ‘rugged’ terrain and ‘sparkling’ coastlines.
She said, “It brought back memories of the California I had always wanted to experience before it was completely transformed by growth. I witnessed a unique way of living.”
Lured by its tasty food, friendly people, and closeness to other European places on her wish list, Orlov chose Albania as her new home the next year.
After relocating to Tirana, the experienced solo traveler now has an “energetic” social life, chooses to “walk everywhere” rather than drive, and pays much less for housing than in California.
She stated, “I pay €500 a month for a two-bedroom apartment in Tirana — a cost that would be unimaginable in Los Angeles. The affordability is present in all areas of life: food, eating out, and even medical care.”
By consistently participating in gatherings with local groups that focus on community involvement, Orlov has built a strong network of friends, including other expatriates and native Albanians.
Far from the city’s chaos, she frequently visits agrotourism farms and vineyards in the countryside, where she enjoys fresh cheese and seasonal wine.
On weekends, she observed the ease of catching a short flight to nearby destinations like Greece, North Macedonia, and Italy.
Orlov also emphasized that she feels ‘incredibly’ secure in Albania, more so than she ‘ever felt back home.’
She stated, “There’s a powerful feeling of safety. Individuals look out for each other. I can move around the city during the day or at night without concern. This kind of mental tranquility is something I didn’t realize I was lacking until I discovered it.”
For Orlov, moving by herself to the opposite side of the world has not only enhanced her cultural experiences, but also provided her with the chance to ‘build the life she has always envisioned.’
She encouraged anyone thinking about making a similar decision to take a research trip before gathering their possessions.
Orlov stated, “Albania isn’t suitable for everyone, and it’s crucial to experience various regions firsthand. I believed I wanted to reside by the coast until I went to Tirana. After that, I realized I had discovered my home.”
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