Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, a traveler pondered about their decision. Yet the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways filled with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are routinely moved to make dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and go up a large spiral viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has multiple spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Featuring three beautiful pristine shores, its bustling town center thrives nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are advised to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail winds along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, often broken by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
