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With the holiday season approaching, it’s the perfect moment to share a few travel ideas from our international team at Medicover Integrated Clinical Services. Five colleagues from Cyprus, Germany, Poland, Romania and Slovakia have each recommended a special place in the country where they spend most of their time – along with a few words about why it’s close to their heart. Their suggestions offer a glimpse into unique local destinations worth discovering. Enjoy reading and perhaps discover a place you haven’t yet considered.
Romania – by Oana Radu, BD Manager
If you’re planning a visit to Romania and want something beyond the usual tourist trail, here are a few places that are close to my heart. First, I always recommend exploring the traditional villages of Transylvania – places where time truly seems to stand still. Cobblestone streets, fortified churches, and a slower rhythm of life make it feel like you’ve stepped into another century. The charm of places like Viscri, Biertan, or Rimetea lies not only in the architecture, but in the sense of authenticity and peace they offer.
Of course, no list would be complete without Bran Castle, often known as Dracula’s Castle. While the link to Vlad the Impaler is mostly legend, the castle’s dramatic hilltop setting and gothic feel are undeniably captivating. It’s touristy, yes – but for good reason.
And then there’s the Danube Delta, a place that’s especially meaningful to me. I spent time there during my biology studies, observing its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. It’s one of Europe’s last truly wild places, where you can spot pelicans gliding over the water, follow quiet channels by boat, and disconnect completely from the rush of daily life.
These are just a few of the spots that I find magical, and I’d love to hear what resonates most with you if you ever plan to visit.
Poland – by Andrzej Gardocki, Clinical Research Coordinator
I’ve been living in the Tricity for over 10 years now, and it still amazes me how much it has to offer. GdaÅ„sk, Gdynia, and Sopot are not only beautiful and rich in history but also vibrant, modern, and surrounded by nature – a combination that’s hard to beat.
It’s the perfect place for anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle – whether it’s hiking coastal trails, cycling in the Tricity Landscape Park, or trying water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing on the nearby Hel Peninsula. The region also has a creative, artistic vibe – with street art, independent galleries, and local events that bring the city’s culture to life. Add fresh sea air, green spaces, wide beaches, and fantastic local food, and you’ve got a recipe for daily inspiration.
No two days have to be the same: a morning walk along the beach in Sopot, coffee on GdaÅ„sk’s charming Mariacka Street, and a sunset from the cliff in OrÅ‚owo. Nature lovers will appreciate places like the “Ptasi Raj” bird reserve or the vast dunes near BiaÅ‚ogóra and the SÅ‚owiÅ„ski National Park – perfect for unwinding and recharging.
The Tricity and its surroundings are simply a great place to be – and to enjoy everything they have to offer.
Slovakia – by Robert Imrich, Business Development Manager
For those who love the outdoors as me rather than overcrowded cities, Slovakia offers countless opportunities to explore dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and enchanting forests. One of the most thrilling experiences for nature and extreme sports lovers is the Ferrata Kyseľ in Slovenský raj (Slovak Paradise). This adventure trail takes you through a narrow gorge filled with waterfalls, ladders, and metal steps, offering a unique mix of adrenaline and untouched nature. It’s a must for anyone who enjoys an active escape.
Another gem lies in the heart of the High Tatras, where Štrbské pleso, a picturesque mountain lake, serves as the perfect starting point for a hike to Predné Solisko. The well-marked trail climbs gently at first and then opens up to breathtaking alpine views. For those who love mountain panoramas but prefer to skip the steep climb, there’s also a convenient cable car that takes you up close to the summit, making the experience accessible to almost everyone.
Of course, even the most adventurous trips benefit from a bit of fairy-tale charm. That’s where Bojnice Castle comes in. With its dreamy towers, romantic architecture, and rich history, it’s the perfect stop to please our better halves—or anyone with a soft spot for beauty and a touch of magic. Surrounded by a lovely park and home to one of the oldest zoos in Central Europe, Bojnice is a wonderful place to slow down, hold hands, and enjoy the atmosphere.
And after all the hiking and exploring, there’s nothing better than relaxing in warm mineral water. Near Liptovský Mikuláš, you’ll find several thermal resorts such as Tatralandia or BeÅ¡eňová, where you can enjoy a mix of pools, slides, and wellness areas. But for those who prefer something more natural and peaceful, a great hidden gem is the Kalameny thermal spring. Located in a quiet forest setting, this small outdoor pool with naturally warm water is free to access year-round – an ideal spot for unwinding under the open sky, surrounded by nature.
Germany – Oliwia Leberl, Analytical Project Manager
If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly destination on the German coast, Warnemünde is a fantastic choice. I visited with my family and was surprised by how much there is to enjoy for both kids and adults.
The beach is wide, clean, and gently sloping – perfect for children to play safely while parents relax nearby. There are plenty of playgrounds along the promenade, and in the summer, you’ll find beach chairs (Strandkörbe) for rent, which are great for spending the whole day by the sea.
Warnemünde also has a small but lively harbor where kids can watch fishing boats come and go, and there’s even a mini-train that runs through town — a big hit with younger children. The lighthouse is fun to climb for older kids and offers a beautiful view over the coastline.
With family-friendly restaurants, lots of space to explore, and a calm, welcoming vibe, Warnemünde is a great spot for a laid-back family holiday. Whether you’re building sandcastles, eating fresh fish by the water, or just enjoying a quiet stroll together, it’s the kind of place where simple moments turn into great memories.
Cyprus – Hari Radhakrishnan, Precision Medicine Director
My favorite part of Cyprus is in the west – the Akamas Peninsula and the small harbor town of Latchi. In many ways, it reminds me of Kerala in India, where I come from. Maybe it’s the mix of sea and hills, the slower pace of life, or that feeling that things aren’t rushed or overly packaged. It’s still relatively under the radar, which means you get to enjoy it the way locals do – without the crowds.
There’s plenty to do, but nothing feels forced. You could rent a boat or hop on a short cruise out to the Blue Lagoon, where the water is unbelievably clear. If you prefer to stay on land, the trails through Akamas are stunning – peaceful, with panoramic views and that sense of discovery you rarely get anymore.
The coastline stretches for miles, and it’s easy to find a quiet spot to swim or just sit by the water. The seafood is excellent, fresh, and reasonably priced.
Even a short trip leaves me feeling recharged – clearer, calmer, and already thinking about the next visit. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, this corner of Cyprus is worth finding.
Wherever your plans take you, we wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday!
