From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. However the early doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes moved to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar at times features live bands, making for a great experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a large wooden viewing tower for breathtaking views over verdant pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features multiple mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. With several beautiful pristine beaches, its lively town center is active in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a local experience at a much lower of the price. Accommodation featured easy access to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this special line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered area provides expansive views, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A hike can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip features constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers walk along tree-lined roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often broken by resident cats and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed old maps and
