6 reasons why living by the sea is good for your health!

There’s something magical about living by the sea, and we all seem to agree on that. Besides dictating a new way of life, it’s also perfect for your health, significantly impacting its improvement. Living by the sea means creating a new routine that never gets boring and, in many cases, can be inspiring, boosting creativity and making you more productive in your daily life. Since people began exploring the planet, they have consistently sought out water, and even today, in modern times, we choose to relax or spend special moments in nature, mainly in coastal areas. But why is coastal living so valuable? Below, we list some concrete reasons.

1. Blue spaces

The feeling of tranquillity we gain from the sea and its colour is what scientists call the “blue mind,” a highly effective way to detach from hyperactive life and enter a calmer flow. Just like the green, blue colour has the same soothing effect, especially after a busy week or day.

2. Clean Air

The air by the sea is much cleaner, and according to studies, it contains more negative ions that are beneficial to health. Negative ions increase serotonin levels, serving as a mood regulator, and also helping boost energy levels.

3. Boost your body’s immunity!

Plants and trees in coastal areas produce a substance called Phytoncides, which helps eliminate harmful bacteria and also boosts the body’s immunity. Through this, our bodies increase the production of white blood cells, which serve to protect us from various infections or diseases.

4. More vitamin D

We all know how important vitamin D is for health and how challenging it can be to obtain it through food alone. The only safe and effective way is exposure to sunlight, and regularly being in contact with seawater and blue spaces ensures this.

5. Improved sleep

A study by the National Trust has revealed that people who walk by the sea for at least 30 minutes everyday experience better sleep quality. Seaside walks also help combat insomnia and usually contribute to sleeping at least an hour more than in cases where no seaside walk is taken.

6. Emotional well-being

Just being by the sea can make you feel relaxed and much calmer in just a few minutes. Experts have found that the sea acts as an emotional state regulator through the breeze, fresh air, and the sound of the sea waves. Simply hearing the sound of the waves can make all the difference.

Living between land and sea, experiencing an inspiring adventure at Vlora Marina

To reside in a port, explore new coastlines daily, or savour the life of a nomad is as enticing as it is challenging for someone who hasn’t tasted the allure and complexity of such a lifestyle. Nevertheless, in the ever-evolving modern world, more than just a challenge, this way of life is a choice favoured by many. Fueled by the construction of modern marinas, the perfection of infrastructure and services, sea enthusiasts and boating aficionados are increasingly taking initiatives to intertwine life between land and sea.
If you think that living by the sea or near a port deprives you of some pleasures of life on land, you haven’t yet acquainted yourself with Vlora Marina. This project, currently being realized in the city of Vlorë, aims to bring a new concept of living between land and sea. Vlora Marina will introduce the first world-class marina in Albania, situated at the meeting point of the Adriatic and Ionian seas and serving as a connecting bridge to all destinations in the Mediterranean and beyond. Managed by D-Marin, one of the internationally renowned marina management networks, this modern Yacht Port is the place that will inspire you to enjoy the shores, beaches, sunrises, sunsets, and life on land amidst numerous possibilities for exploration, entertainment, and accommodation.
From here, you can embark on a journey to explore around 120 natural beaches with crystal-clear waters in a perfect combination of nature between the sea and the mountains. The entire area is known for its islands, bays, and characteristic caves, one of which is the famous Karaburun Island known for its small bays nestled between the rocks. On the way to the island lies the cave of Haxhi Aliu, one of the most beautiful karst caves in the country. The inner walls are filled with wild pigeon nests, while the cave’s end forms a small deep blue lake.
For those passionate about culture and history, near Vlora Marina is the Museum of Independence, the building that housed the first Albanian government and where original objects from that time are exhibited. Just a few minutes from the city, you can visit another unique destination, such as Kanina Castle. This castle is one of the most famous cultural and historical heritage sites in Vlorë and beyond. Porto Palermo Castle, built during World War II, is another object with historical and cultural values to be discovered. The long list of tourist attractions in the area also includes Narta Lagoon with its pink flamingos, Zvërnec Monastery, Llogara Pass Park, one of the most visited natural spaces in Albania, and many other objects of cultural heritage in the area.
After exploring the area, you can return to Vlora Marina, where beyond the modern yacht port, you will find all the service units starting from well-known bars and restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, famous clothing and accessory brands, as well as five-star accommodations at Vlora Marriott Hotel, an internationally recognized brand known worldwide for excellence in service and premium standards.
If such a lifestyle seems perfect to you, to the point where you consider making it your refuge to return to whenever you wish, here you have the opportunity to invest in your seaside apartment in a modern residential complex.
And whenever you want to return to the sea to explore new coastlines, you and your vessel will have all the necessary services to make both your stay in the port and your sailing experience unique and secure. Services such as anchoring, fuel supply, 24-hour security, maintenance of sailing vessels, provision of marina equipment, including vehicles and workboats, dedicated customer service, specialized shops where you can find assistance and all the necessary equipment for your vessel, guarantee a special experience throughout your maritime expedition.
The entire crew of your vessel also has various services at their disposal, ranging from the gym, spas, relaxation centres, participation in events and various activities, to membership in the yacht club as another option to encourage interaction and exchange maritime experiences and adventures with other travellers and sea enthusiasts.
Whether you choose the sea, land, or a combination of both, in all cases, Vlora Marina meets 100% of your needs, fulfilling every expectation and offering you a sense of positive emotions and experiences on every journey.

Get to know the most attractive destinations in the region of Vlora.

Vlora is one of the most important tourist destinations in our country, offering not only natural beauty and stunning beaches but also a myriad of tourist attractions to explore. The entire city and its surrounding areas are rich in historical and cultural values that have attracted and continue to attract more visitors. If you don’t plan to go to the beach, or if you want to enjoy this city in the other seasons excluding summer, Vlora has many other attractions that will fill your days with emotions and acquaint you with the culture, cuisine and history of this city which will be surprising in every aspect.
The city of Vlora itself offers several monuments with historical value, such as the

1. Independence Museum

Located in the building that housed the first Albanian government, the museum displays original objects from the time that reflect important documents from the period of the Renaissance and Independence. You can also visit the office of the Albanian Prime Minister at that time, Ismail Qemali, and the meeting hall of the first Albanian government.

2. Kuzum Baba

Another attraction within the city of Vlora, a natural terrace carved on the seafront, situated on a hill above the city. It is named after Sejiid Ali Sultan, also known as Kuzum Baba, a Bektashi spiritual leader, whose tomb is in this place. Apart from being considered a holy place, positioned at an altitude of about 30 meters, It also offers a complete panorama of the entire city of Vlora.

3. Soda Forest, Narta Lagoon and Zvërnec Monastery

Soda Forest is also known as the lungs of the city of Vlora. It spans an area of about 600 hectares and is a natural treasure with a variety of trees, plants, and animals. At the end of the Soda Forest, you can continue your journey to Narta Lagoon and then reach Zvërnec Island, a small island where the famous Monastery of St. Mary is located. The entire landscape creates a beautiful natural ensemble with plenty of contrasts but perfect harmony between tranquillity and natural beauty. The entire area is quite popular among both local and foreign visitors.

4. Kanina Castle

Located just 3 km from the city of Vlora, Kanina Castle is considered one of the most famous cultural and historical heritage sites in Vlora and beyond. Its construction dates back to the 4th century BCE, spanning the periods of Antiquity and the Middle Ages. The castle rises on top of a hill with an elevation of 389 meters above sea level, offering a 360-degree view of the city of Vlora and its bay.

5. Porto Palermo

Another attraction with historical and cultural value is Porto Palermo Castle, located in the bay of Porto Palermo a few kilometres south of Himara. The castle was built by Ali Pasha Tepelena as a gift for one of his wives whom he deeply loved. The castle has 12 rooms and a dungeon, which during World War II was used as a depot, and during the dictatorship era, it served as a prison. In recent years, its strategic positioning, the view it offers and the history it carries have made it one of the main attractions that have attracted thousands of tourists from around the world.

6. Llogara National Park

A perfect meeting point between the mountain and the sea, Llogara National Park is one of the most visited natural spaces in Albania. Just 40 km southeast of Vlora, the park has an area of endless pine and oak forests. On the way, you will encounter the famous Flag Pine, a 100-year-old pine tree shaped by strong winds to resemble a fluttering flag. Llogara is the most beautiful part of the entire park, where the expanse of pines opens up, revealing the horizon of the Ionian Sea.

7. Hiking in Çika Mountain

For those who love adventure and are passionate about hiking, the Vlora area, despite being a coastal region, offers opportunities for such a sport. In recent years, climbing Mount Çika has become increasingly popular, offering a breathtaking panorama from its summit.

8. Sazan and Karaburun Islands

These are undoubtedly two of the most beautiful islands with the highest number of visitors. Karaburun Island stands out for its beaches and small bays nestled among the rocks, crystal-clear waters, and pristine nature. On the way to the island, you can stop at the cave of Haxhi Aliu, one of the most beautiful karst caves in the country, resembling a Gothic cathedral. The inner walls are filled with wild pigeon nests, while the end of the cave forms a small deep blue lake. Sazan Island is the largest in Albania. During the Cold War, the island served as a military base, where naval vessels and coastal artillery were stationed. The island currently has around 3600 bunkers, turning this destination into a place where natural beauty intertwines with history and culture.