Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. But the first suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene escape. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and climb a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional dining with hearty dishes and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features several mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively town center is active every night with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy access to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret world offers expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip requires numerous turns to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The route also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic roads featuring historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous old cartography and
