From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming location offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved lanes lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, making for a memorable evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene escape. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall wooden lookout for stunning vistas over verdant pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine with robust dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa has several medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant center is active nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered direct a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from a nearby city. However, this service is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden area provides wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive involves constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
