Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing busy eateries. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Open late, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a hill and go up a giant spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic dining offering hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area has multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting three beautiful white sand coastlines, its vibrant centre is active nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered convenient access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. But, this service is said to be under threat of shutting down. The trip includes spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered world offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A hike can start at a 7th-century chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip requires numerous bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling city takes travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, with time paused by local felines and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning plans for a comeback to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
