From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. However the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Furniture are often cleared to make dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall wooden lookout for magnificent views over lush landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining offering robust food and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa has several spring taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. With several stunning pristine beaches, its bustling center comes alive nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly threatened of being closed. The trip includes breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to experience this unique railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, with shores, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret world offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A walk can commence at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive involves many turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers walk along tree-lined lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is slow, often paused by local cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes exquisite old maps and
