Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate public squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and climb a tall spiral platform for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering substantial food and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features a number of spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. With several beautiful white sand coastlines, its bustling center thrives nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided easy a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from a nearby city. However, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A hike can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The trip features many bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the chance for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by local cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually filled with plans for a future return to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features detailed old cartography and
