Watt's World Season 1 Episode 1 Albania: What Makes It Weird?

Watt's World is a travel and adventure series that follows journalist Nick Watt as he explores some of the world's most intriguing and offbeat destinations. In season 1, episode 1, titled "Albania: What Makes It Weird?", Watt visits Albania, a country that is often overlooked and shrouded in mystery.

Located on the Adriatic coast, Albania has a complex and intriguing history. For decades, the country was controlled by a totalitarian regime, which kept it closed off from the rest of the world. Since the fall of communism in the 1990s, Albania has slowly opened up, but it still remains one of Europe's least explored countries.

Watt begins his journey in Tirana, the capital and largest city of Albania. Here, he meets up with locals who show him some of the city's hidden gems, including a former communist concrete bunker that has been converted into a museum dedicated to the country's brutal past. It's a stark reminder of the country's history and a testament to the resilience of the Albanian people.

From Tirana, Watt travels to the town of Kruja, which is known for its traditional bazaar and artisanal crafts. Here, he meets a blacksmith who specializes in making traditional Albanian swords and learns about the town's importance in Albanian history. Kruja was the birthplace of Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg, who successfully resisted Ottoman invaders in the 15th century.

Watt then heads to the coast, where he visits the town of Vlore and meets with a local fisherman who takes him out on a traditional fishing boat. They catch sardines and anchovies using nets that have been used for generations. Later, Watt enjoys a seafood feast in a local restaurant, sampling some of the freshest and most delicious fish he's ever tasted.

One of the highlights of Watt's trip to Albania is a visit to the town of Berat, which is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the "town of a thousand windows," Berat is famous for its Ottoman-era architecture, particularly the white-washed houses that cling to the rocky hillside overlooking the town. Watt explores the narrow cobbled streets and meets some of the locals who have lived in Berat their entire lives.

Throughout his journey, Watt discovers the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make Albania such a fascinating and unique destination. He tries traditional Albanian foods, learns about the country's music and dance traditions, and encounters some of the friendly and welcoming locals. Along the way, he uncovers the strange and unexpected aspects of Albanian culture, from the preoccupation with Albanian identity to the enduring fascination with American culture.

"Albania: What Makes It Weird?" is an eye-opening introduction to this fascinating and often misunderstood country. Watt takes viewers on a journey that is both entertaining and informative, revealing the beauty, complexity, and variety of Albanian culture. Whether you're an experienced traveler or simply curious about the world, this episode is a must-see.