The Most Breathtaking Coastlines on Earth

Don't miss out on the latest travel news and updates. Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travel's weekly newsletter. This week, we cover the expansion of the Paris Métro, issues with the Channel Tunnel's train service, and our top picks for the world's most stunning coastlines.

How to coast through life

Living life on the edge doesnt have to be stressful. It can mean a relaxing vacation where land meets sea. 

Explore four stunning coastal destinations, beginning with Japan's remarkable 600-mile (965-kilometer) Michinoku Coastal Trail. Launched in 2019 to attract tourists to the Tohoku region, this trail spans the northeast Pacific Coast of the main islands, boasting a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and delectable cuisine.

Consider exploring the stunning, lesser-known Black Sea coast of Turkey for a unique and unforgettable vacation experience. Meanwhile, the renowned Côte d'Azur in France and the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia continue to captivate travelers with their timeless allure and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

European rail travel

The Paris Métro, with over 120 years of history, is undergoing one of its most significant upgrades in decades with the introduction of the Grand Paris Express. This new 120-mile (193-kilometer) system will expand the network with four new lines and 68 additional stations.

Numerous large-scale infrastructure projects have faced delays, including high-speed rail travel in Europe, where demand surpasses supply and the Channel Tunnel, the undersea rail link between Britain and France, presents a major bottleneck. However, a significant overhaul may be imminent.

When emerging in Paris or London from undersea or underground at this time of year, it's wise to have a smart rain jacket on hand. Our partners at CNN Underscored, a product review and recommendation guide owned by CNN, have rigorously tested and identified the best options available on the market.

Holiday season

There are numerous destinations across the globe that go all out to embrace the Christmas spirit. Whether it's Barcelona, with its Three Kings celebrations reaching a crescendo on January 5 and 6, or Nairobi, where the city resonates with the sounds of carols from shops, restaurants, and public transportation, these places offer an unforgettable Christmas experience. Check out our curated list of the top 15 Christmas destinations to consider for your next holiday.

Starting over

In recent decades, festive Christmas markets have become a popular feature in many cities, with the biggest and best ones found in Europe. Vienna boasts 20 markets to choose from, and in Prague, there's one located in Wenceslas Square—yes, that's the "Good King" from the Christmas carol.

Don't wait until 2024 to start thinking about a New Year, New You! Check out these inspirational stories of people making fresh starts. Take Cherilynne Hill for example, who loved tiny-house vacations so much that she made the decision to downsize for good. See her cozy new home and find out how much it cost.

The Freeze family, consisting of Eric, Rixa, and their four children, made the decision to leave their life in the US in order to provide their kids with a unique upbringing in the south of France.

Additionally, Glenda and Randy Tuminello, a retired couple in their seventies from Washington state, chose to settle down in a cliffside town in Puglia, Italy, known for its beautiful beaches.

Flight survival tips

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To survive a long flight in coach, bring these five items

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What are the most important things to bring, eat and do to survive a long flight in coach? Travel expert Samantha Brown has you covered with these five essential items.

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