From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow lanes filled with bustling eateries. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Furniture are often moved to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally has performances, guaranteeing a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant spiral viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants offering hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent choice. Boasting three beautiful white sand beaches, its lively town center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from a nearby city. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret area boasts wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a very old church, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive requires many turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes flanked by historic houses. The pace is slow, often broken by friendly cats and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous old cartography and
