Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location provides beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and narrow alleys housing bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live music, ensuring a great experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a giant wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine serving robust dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Featuring several stunning white sand beaches, its vibrant town center is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation featured easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from the region. However, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with shores, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden area boasts expansive views, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can commence at a very old place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The trip involves numerous turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often paused by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a comeback to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous old maps and
