From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. However the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to create space to dance. Open late, the bar at times hosts performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking panoramas over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining with substantial dishes and music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple stunning pristine beaches, its bustling town center comes alive nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from the region. Yet, this service is said to be under threat of closure. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to see this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats are visible. A journey can commence at a very old chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive involves constant switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The drive also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests meander along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features exquisite old maps and
