Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. But the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys filled with busy eateries. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene escape. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a slope and go up a tall twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine with substantial food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting several wonderful sandy beaches, its lively town center thrives nightly with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. However, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to experience this picturesque railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden world provides expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along historic streets flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time interrupted by local felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features detailed 16th-century maps and
