From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides more than swimming. Visitors may meander through beautiful public squares and narrow passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes cleared to create space to dance. Staying open late, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a large spiral platform for magnificent panoramas over green fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with hearty dishes and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With three wonderful white sand coastlines, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from a nearby city. However, this line is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to experience this special line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remnants of ships lie. A walk can start at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features many turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The drive also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic lanes featuring historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a next visit to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous old cartography and
