From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement presents more than swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved passageways housing bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late, the bar at times has live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the summit of a hill and go up a large twisting viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining offering substantial food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre has several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Featuring multiple beautiful pristine shores, its bustling town center is active nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided convenient entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. However, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The journey features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area offers sweeping views, seals in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features constant switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic streets flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is slow, frequently paused by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features exquisite old cartography and
