From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. However the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Open late, the bar sometimes has live bands, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral platform for magnificent panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional restaurants with hearty dishes and music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful sandy beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging featured easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. Yet, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered area boasts expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes lined with beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features gorgeous old maps and
