From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes cleared to make space to dance. Operating late, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and go up a giant wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over lush pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining offering substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area features multiple mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Boasting several beautiful pristine beaches, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly threatened of being closed. The ride passes over spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to experience this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A journey can start at a very old church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip involves many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets lined with historic houses. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by friendly felines and chances to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
