From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement offers more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled passageways lined with bustling eateries. Concrete platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ playing only records. Furniture are routinely cleared to allow for dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a tall spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through rustic dining serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its vibrant town center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured direct entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to ride this special line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret area boasts wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The coast path follows along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can commence at a very old church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey involves constant bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually accompanied by 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 true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
