From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for space to dance. Open late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent views over verdant landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through rustic cuisine with robust fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Boasting three wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant centre thrives every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. However, this line is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a very old church, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves constant bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
