Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement provides beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a great night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall spiral lookout for stunning vistas over lush fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic dining serving substantial fare and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring several beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively centre thrives every night with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The trip features breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret landscape offers expansive views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey involves many turns to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time broken by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often spent planning plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
