Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times has live music, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a giant wooden platform for stunning views over green fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering robust dishes and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features several mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. With multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided convenient access to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from a nearby city. But, this service is said to be at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This secret area offers expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can begin at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey requires numerous bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features gorgeous old maps and
