Gillian Gloyer grew up in Scotland then studied ancient languages at Wadham College, Oxford. After university and a couple of years back in Scotland, she began a professional career overseas, working in Spain, Chile, Belgium and Bosnia before finding herself – slightly by accident – in Albania. Living here for several years, she has authored all seven editions of Bradt’s guidebook to the country. She also directed a long-term training programme with young political activists from 12 parties. Since 2012, she has led tours to Albania and various other countries, helping travellers explore exciting destinations. In 2023–24, Gloyer worked in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as an international election observer, enabling her to update Bradt’s guide to the DRC.