Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their choice. However the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and narrow lanes housing busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally features performances, guaranteeing a great experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall spiral viewing tower for stunning views over green fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants with hearty dishes and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa features multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from the region. But, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered world offers sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can start at a ancient place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves constant turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also presents the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along quiet roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
