From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the first suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late, the bar at times hosts live bands, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and climb a giant twisting lookout for magnificent views over verdant fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine offering hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre has several spring taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. With three wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling center thrives nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly at risk of closure. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive features constant switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests meander along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
