From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. However the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved alleys housing bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ playing only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to create space to dance. Staying open late, the bar at times hosts live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant spiral viewing tower for stunning panoramas over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional cuisine with hearty food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted painter, and the central spa features multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting three beautiful sandy shores, its lively centre is active nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from a nearby city. However, this service is reportedly threatened of closure. The ride passes over breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features many turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors meander along quiet lanes flanked by historic houses. The pace is slow, with time broken by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features detailed old cartography and
