From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved lanes filled with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are routinely cleared to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a giant spiral platform for stunning vistas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine offering robust food and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre has multiple spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring three beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging featured easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from the region. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to experience this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden world boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive requires many turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The journey also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant city takes travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, frequently interrupted by local felines and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features detailed 16th-century maps and
