From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts performances, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a slope and go up a large wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with robust dishes and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features multiple medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine shores, its lively town center comes alive every night with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from the region. However, this service is potentially under threat of closure. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This secret world boasts expansive views, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires many turns to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along historic roads featuring grand mansions. The pace is slow, frequently broken by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with plans for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
