Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the early suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming location provides more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to make dancing. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the top of a ski run and climb a large twisting platform for stunning views over green landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting several wonderful white sand coastlines, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can start at a very old church, among the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip requires numerous bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, with time broken by resident felines and moments to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features exquisite 16th-century maps and
