Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. However the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved lanes filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are routinely moved to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a slope and go up a tall twisting platform for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants with substantial fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa boasts several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. With several stunning pristine shores, its lively center is active nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered direct access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from nearby cities. But, this service is said to be threatened of closure. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This hidden area offers wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A hike can start at a very old church, one of the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip features numerous bends to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, with time paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
