From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate public squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club offers immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden platform for magnificent vistas over lush landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture is on display through traditional dining with substantial dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the central spa features several medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its lively town center comes alive every night with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this special line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This secret landscape offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A journey can start at a very old place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip involves constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major city takes people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests stroll along tree-lined lanes featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, often paused by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features detailed 16th-century maps and
