We only had one hour to explore around the town, but managed to do quite a lot in that time! We walked down a street full of more touristy shops, towards the waterfront. There were cafes along the waterfront, as well as some more interesting older buildings-- including the National Ohrid Museum. The current building dates back to 1863, but the museum itself was founded in 1516, making it one of the oldest museums in the world.
We didn't have time to look inside the museum, but we did visit the beach-- the water was quite warm, and I waded in a bit-- there were lots of tiny fish in the lake, and many boats. Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO Heritage site, and home to some ancient species of fish.
After our stop in Ohrid, we got back on the bus, and crossed the border back into Albania. From there, we drove along the river-- a different route than when we'd gone into Macedonia a week ago, but this drive was very scenic and beautiful. We had a quick rest stop at a convenience store, where we were ambushed by a flock of sheep running through the parking lot, followed by their shepherd!
We actually drove through a bit of rain on the way back, and a thunderstorm-- followed by a beautiful rainbow (unfortunately it was difficult to photograph well through the bus window). We passed through the city of Durres on the way back to Tirana, and arrived at our hotel here just before midnight. The power was out in our hotel for a bit when we arrived, so a bunch of us went across the street to a nice Italian restaurant for a fantastic late-night meal.
After a relaxing morning at the hotel today, a couple of us wandered through town, took some more photos, including one of a fascinating pyramid-shaped building, now covered in graffiti and broken windows-- which used to be a cultural monument to the late communist leader, Enver Hoxha.
I am just sitting on the patio at our hotel having dinner as I write this-- but we'll be dropping by the Opera House shortly, to leave our cellos (borrowed for the tour), and say our good-byes. After that, it's time to get some sleep, as we leave on the bus at the bright and early hour of 3 am to catch our flight!
It's been an absolutely fantastic time here, and it's gone by so quickly... I just wish it wasn't time to pack up. I've made many new contacts and friends here, gotten some fantastic photos, and will be coming home to Vancouver with lots of stories to share!
-Elizabeth