Communicating in Albania

The way in which we understand each other is an art, a skill, and a necessity. Communication is vastly different between people around the world. A culture can have a profound effect on one's communication and paradigm. In that way it is like a cultural artifact; a piece of how people are around the world. It gives uniqueness to interactions between people around the world.

Albanians are a direct people. Conversations can seem like fights or arguments when really it is just a discussion between friends or family. Raising of the voice may not always mean anger. It isn't uncommon for an Albanian to say things bluntly or boldly. For example, we had met a group of people one day. A few days later we saw one of them in the street. We said hello and chatted for a bit. Later that night we were chatting with another friend of ours. We explained to her that we had seen the other friend earlier that day. She asked us to describe the person. Trying to be polite we used words like "strong," "tall," and "filled." With a look of confusion she asked,"You mean the fat one?"
Our faces turn red and we are suprised at her bluntness, "Yes, yes that's the one."

Gestures in Albania are also hard to catch. Shaking the head is a sign for "yes". This was quite confusing at first. When asked questions at the store like, "would you like a bag?" I would shake my head trying to say no. Then they would smile, gather my things and place them in a bag.  

In Albania, or anywhere for that matter, it is important to pay attention to how people communicate. Direct and foreward cultures like the Albanians may come off as rude, aggressive, and out of line, when actually what they are saying is not hurtful, offensive, or aggresive in any way. They are simply saying exaclty what they feel or see. And gestures are different everywhere.