Most Recent
Forum Legend
Following
New Comments
Locked Topic
Pinned Topic
Hey guys. I been wondering about how some western(read for the most part U.S) players can get exposure to chess countries visa free and with a reasonable cost of living. Sometimes people speak of places like Budapest, as the mecca for aspiring chess players in europe , but being part of the Schegen zone limits your stay to 90 days.
however i noticed that they are 3 countries that may fulfill the criteria. Those are:
Albania, Armenia, Georgia. Georgia and Albania allow gringos to stay up to 365 days visa free, Armenia half a year.
Here is the thing, both Georgia and Armenia are well known countries with good chess scenes, esp Armenia, what about albania? its main advantage is being so close to europe including places like Hungary well known for norm hunting. But does Albania have a chess culture of its own? are they plenty of clubs and events to play in within the country or would a person staying here have to go outside to play competitively to their hearts desire?