Albanian tour operators say protests are hitting bookings

Tour operators in Durrës say protests in Tirana are already hurting Albania’s summer season.

They say about 40% of recent bookings have been cancelled after images of the protests raised safety concerns among foreign tourists.

Two partner companies, one from Germany and one from Scandinavia, have also pulled out, operators told ABC News.

Businesses say the damage is being felt in Durrës, one of Albania’s main coastal destinations, but could spread to other resorts if the situation continues.

They are calling for stability to protect the country’s image as a safe holiday destination.