Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town provides more than swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town provide crisp pastries and beverages with warm service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar at times features performances, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and climb a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through rustic cuisine with hearty fare and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted painter, and the town centre features a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting several wonderful sandy beaches, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially at risk of being closed. The ride passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden landscape provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can commence at a 7th-century church, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The drive involves numerous bends to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
