Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. But the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to create dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features performances, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall twisting platform for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants offering hearty fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa has several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. With multiple beautiful sandy shores, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The drive involves numerous turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the chance for spotting bears, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often paused by local cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases gorgeous old maps and
