From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to make space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Travelers can hike to the summit of a ski run and go up a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving robust dishes and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Featuring several wonderful white sand shores, its lively center is active every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The ride features spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area offers expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a very old place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive features many turns to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The route also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along historic roads flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, often broken by local felines and moments to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous old maps and
