From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement provides more than swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using just vinyl. Seating are often cleared to create dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a slope and go up a tall wooden lookout for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through rustic dining serving robust food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre has several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. With three wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant center thrives every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered direct a path to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this picturesque line soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret world offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The path winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The trip features numerous turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by resident felines and chances to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous old cartography and
