Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement provides more than a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow lanes filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live music, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene escape. Travelers can hike to the summit of a ski run and climb a giant spiral viewing tower for stunning panoramas over green fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine serving robust dishes and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features a number of spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Boasting three wonderful pristine shores, its vibrant town center comes alive every night with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. But, the route is potentially under threat of shutting down. The journey includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical site 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 small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This secret area boasts wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive involves many bends to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests meander along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by friendly felines and chances to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century maps and
