From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. However the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow alleys lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Open late, the bar at times features performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall twisting lookout for stunning vistas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine serving substantial food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Boasting three wonderful pristine beaches, its lively town center comes alive nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging featured easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. However, the route is reportedly at risk of closure. The trip features breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered world provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The path follows along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats lie. A journey can start at a very old place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey features constant switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this special place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
