Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable encounters from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and narrow lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and climb a large spiral viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic cuisine offering robust food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area has several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling center thrives every night with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A hike can begin at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive features constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major city transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic roads lined with historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, often interrupted by local felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
