Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. However the first doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, making for a fantastic night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and go up a giant spiral platform for stunning panoramas over green fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine with hearty food and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its lively town center comes alive nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot offered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to experience this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a very old church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive requires many turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, frequently paused by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
