From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, a traveler questioned about their choice. Yet the early suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming location presents beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall wooden lookout for stunning views over verdant fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine serving hearty food and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the town centre features a number of spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its bustling center is active nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from the region. But, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The ride includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This hidden area provides wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remnants of ships lie. A walk can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The journey features many bends to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
