Left the USA for Albania.
60-days from decision to life abroad.
NICE TO MEET YOU
We're Sam & Spencer
We know what it’s like to dream of a different life, because we did it. In 2024, we sold almost everything we owned, packed up our cat, and moved from the USA to the Albanian Riviera.
Smile Abroad was born from that journey. We offer coaching, share what we’ve learned and introduce you to the people who helped us along the way. Whether you’re curious about everyday life in Albania, wondering where to start with visas, or just need a little encouragement we’re here to show you that it’s possible.
This isn’t just about moving somewhere new. It’s about building a life you love in a place that feels like home.
Make A Plan
We sold everything we owned and moved from Kansas City to Saranda Albania in less than 60 days while continuing to work.
Make Your Move
Two days in the Tirana Marriott is all we reserved. We scouted the country and secured a long term lease within our first month.
Make Albania Home
We started a company and obtained 5 year residency permits within our first 12 months visa free stay in Albania.
Our Story
We spent years chasing the version of life we thought we were supposed to have, but it never felt quite right. Between work stress, home rennovations, and the feeling that our future wasn’t really ours, we knew something had to change.
So we sold everything we owned, simplified our lives, and built a plan that gave us real freedom. That plan led us across the ocean to Albania, where we found a slower pace, a brighter outlook, and a place that felt like home.
Now we share what we’ve learned so others can build a life that feels possible again.
 "Sam & Spencer helped tremendously with our journey to explore Albania."
-Â Amy.
"I would have never had the courage to visit Albania if I had not connected with Spencer and Sam."
-Â Jen.
"These guys provide the best information about moving to Albania on YouTube!"
-Â Deb.
Why We Do It
Because too many people feel stuck in a life that looks fine on paper but feels wrong in reality. We know how overwhelming it can be to question everything you have built, to wonder if it is too late or too risky to choose something different. We also know how powerful it is to realize that change is possible with the right information, mindset, and support.
Smile Abroad exists to shorten the distance between dreaming and doing. We share real experiences, practical guidance, and honest conversations so moving abroad feels achievable, not intimidating. If our story helps you see new options, take the first step, or believe that a better life is within reach, then we are doing exactly what we set out to do.
LIFE IN ALBANIA BY SMILE ABROAD
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Meet Our Team...
We could not have made our move abroad successfully without a strong support system behind us, and that is exactly what we are building at Smile Abroad.
We believe moving overseas should not be done alone, which is why we have assembled a trusted team to support our community every step of the way.
From legal guidance to day-to-day community support, our team exists to give you the same level of help, clarity, and confidence that made our own move possible.
Tahir Tahja
Albanian Immigration Attorney based in Tirana Albania, his hometown. Tahir has helped 100's of people obtain long term residency permits in Albania. He's also created 100's of Albanian companies and can help you with all of your legal needs as you plan your move to Albania. Â
Kristi Masho
Smile Abroad Community Manager and Zemër Partnership Manager. Kristi is a native of Gjirokaster, Albania with a professional background as a customs broker. In addition to being a great problem solver and people person he’s a polyglot who speaks 7 languages.