Originally from Scotland, Colin has been living as an expat in Albania for the past dozen years. In that time he's learned to speak the language fluently, made friends, got married, and now calls Albania his home.	Colin Stephen

-Where were you born?
Aberdeen, Scotland

-In which country and city are you living now?
Shkoder, Albania

-Are you living alone or with your family?
With my wife ( she is Albanian) and our 3 sons

-How long have you been living in Albania?
12 years

-What is your age?
43

-When did you come up with the idea of living in Albania?
Missionary spoke about Albania after communism

-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?
No

-Do you speak Albanian and do you think it's important to speak the local language?
When I first came to Albania, I lived for 2 years with an Albanian family that did not know English. That helped me greatly in learning the language and culture. I now speak fluently, understand it, but still make grammatical mistakes!!

-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
Not really, home is now in Albania. I do crave a white pudding supper and a bottle of Irn Bru from time to time.

-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
We own an apartment. 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms. 140m2. £30,000.

-What is the cost of living in Albania?
Low, but a lot of imported goods are more expensive than in the UK.

-What do you think about the Albanians?
Great. They are warm and friendly. Hey! I have got to say that I married one of them!!

-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Albania?
Negatives - power cuts. Time with no water.

Positives - so many, but the people, the style of living, the friendliness.

-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Albania?
Lots - but if anyone is really serious about visiting or living in Albania, it would probably be better to contact me by e-mail.

-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Albania?
My web blog: www.shkoder.blogspot.com