From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys housing bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town offer delicious pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club is immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dancing. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through rustic dining offering robust food and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features a number of mineral taps to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its bustling center thrives every night with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of shutting down. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered world provides wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A journey can commence at a ancient chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The trip involves constant switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly cats and chances to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
