Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a hill and go up a large spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with substantial food and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa has several medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Boasting three beautiful sandy shores, its lively town center is active nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided convenient a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from nearby cities. But, this line is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered area boasts wide-open views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive requires many bends to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors walk along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, often paused by resident felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features gorgeous old maps and
