From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and narrow alleys filled with bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ spinning only records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to create dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene escape. Visitors may walk to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with robust fare and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With several beautiful white sand coastlines, its bustling center is active nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided direct access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from the region. But, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The ride passes over photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This secret landscape provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The path winds along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships are visible. A walk can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey involves numerous bends to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a bustling metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, with time interrupted by local felines and moments to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
