CNN Travel Weekly Roundup

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This Week in Travel

In this week’s roundup of travel stories:

• Explore a hiking trail through the “Mountains of Heaven.”
• Discover why Champagne is becoming boozier.
• Meet a woman who found joy moving from Las Vegas to a picturesque Italian island.

Debra Coltune’s Transformational Journey

Debra Coltune’s life changed in 2023 when she traveled to San Pietro, a small island off the southwestern tip of Sardinia, Italy, to judge a local tuna festival. She was unaware that this idyllic community, with under 6,000 residents, would become her new home.

Though her role focused on judging fish, she quickly learned that Sardinia, recognized as one of the world’s five Blue Zones for exceptional longevity, thrives on a traditionally plant-centered diet.

After over a decade of living in the fast-paced environment of Las Vegas, Coltune fell in love with the serene lifestyle in San Pietro, stating, “The island fills me with such joy.” Within a year, she and her children, Aiden and Kaiya, along with their two dogs, made the island their home. Read the full story for what happened next.

Actor Billy Porter also found his dream island while working abroad. In the CNN series “My Happy Place,” he revisits Mykonos, where he discovered freedom and belonging.

Explore Sweeping Nature Trails

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are two lesser-known hiking trails to explore—the Ak-Suu Transverse trail in Kyrgyzstan’s Mountains of Heaven and the Peaks of the Balkans trail winding through Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo.

The Ak-Suu Transverse trail spans 70 miles and, thanks to a new nomadic tent network, allows hikers to travel with just a day pack. Previously, only hardcore climbers took on this rugged terrain, but now its breathtaking landscapes are accessible to many.

Meanwhile, the Peaks of the Balkans trail offers a challenging 120-mile journey through stunning vistas of towering limestone peaks and wildflower meadows.

Champagne and Cheese Under Climate Pressure

France has faced extreme heat waves, affecting both its renowned wine and cheese. Grapes in the Champagne region ripened unusually fast, leading to the earliest harvest on record and a surge in alcohol levels due to sweeter grapes. French wine regulators have adjusted regulations to accommodate this.

Furthermore, cheese flavors are at risk as drought has scorched the pastures where dairy cows graze. Farmers have had to supplement their diets with feed instead of grass, affecting the richness and taste of the cheese.

Featured Video: Why Extreme Heat Means More Alcoholic Champagne

Watch: Why extreme heat means more alcoholic champagne.

Explore Culinary Adventures

Celebrity chef David Chang shares insights on what to look for when choosing a restaurant in his series, emphasizing the importance of the menu, the ambiance, and recommendations. Watch “The Detour with David Chang” to learn more about his culinary journey.

Stay tuned for more travel insights, adventure stories, and expert recommendations next week!