Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue is great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live bands, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large wooden lookout for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining with robust dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area has a number of mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With three beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively center is active in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local experience at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided direct a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride passes over photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret world boasts expansive vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a very old church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey features many bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests meander along quiet streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time paused by local felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous old cartography and
