Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots offer delicious pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers immense fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ using only vinyl. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants with robust food and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area boasts several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant center thrives nightly with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided direct entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered area boasts expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of boats lie. A hike can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip involves constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic lanes flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is slow, with time interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases exquisite old maps and
