From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most memorable finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. However the early suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots offer delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Seating are often pushed aside to create dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live music, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden lookout for magnificent panoramas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic dining with hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the main area boasts several mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Featuring multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from a nearby city. But, this service is reportedly under threat of closure. The trip features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires constant bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers walk along tree-lined roads lined with historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a comeback to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
