From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the first suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town presents more than swimming. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled alleys filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are sometimes cleared to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a large spiral lookout for magnificent views over lush fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through rustic dining offering substantial dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. With multiple stunning white sand coastlines, its lively center is active nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from nearby cities. However, the route is potentially at risk of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to experience this special line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is striking, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This undiscovered area provides wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, often paused by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a future return to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
