Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque town provides more than a swim. Tourists may meander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a giant spiral platform for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional dining serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features several medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. With three stunning white sand coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this special line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret landscape offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip features numerous bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling city transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes gorgeous old cartography and
