Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, an explorer questioned about their choice. Yet the early hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club promises great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning only records. Seating are often moved to create dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes features live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a ski run and climb a giant spiral viewing tower for magnificent vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining serving robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring several beautiful sandy shores, its lively town center thrives every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. But, the route is potentially under threat of closure. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
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 reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, with coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden world boasts wide-open views, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The journey involves numerous turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by local felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by plans for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
