From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location provides more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved alleys filled with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has live music, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and climb a giant twisting viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants offering hearty fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre has a number of medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple stunning white sand coastlines, its bustling centre thrives nightly with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a local experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured direct entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from the region. However, this line is reportedly under threat of closure. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This secret landscape boasts wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive involves constant switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic lanes featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
