From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, ensuring a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the top of a slope and go up a giant twisting platform for magnificent views over lush pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Boasting several wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot offered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging featured easy access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from the region. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of being closed. The journey includes spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this special railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This hidden world boasts wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships lie. A hike can commence at a ancient church, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features constant turns to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A short journey from a major city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
