From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and climb a tall twisting viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining serving substantial fare and music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring several beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant centre thrives every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the price. The lodging featured convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from the region. However, the route is potentially under threat of closure. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered world provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often paused by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous old cartography and
