From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow passageways lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large twisting viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining with robust dishes and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area has multiple spring water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. With several wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a local feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered direct a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret world offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A journey can commence at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The journey requires many turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, frequently paused by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
