From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. However the first doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club offers a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are often moved to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts performances, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and ascend a large wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining with robust dishes and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Featuring three stunning white sand beaches, its bustling town center thrives in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to ride 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 culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area offers wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features many bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city takes people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time paused by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
