Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow lanes lined with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to allow for dance floor. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Guests may walk to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall spiral platform for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre has multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Boasting several wonderful white sand shores, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered easy access to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden world boasts wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A walk can begin at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive involves constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a car-free island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often broken by local cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
