Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming location presents beyond just a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways lined with bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar is great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Operating late, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful escape. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall spiral viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine offering robust food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa has a number of mineral taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring multiple beautiful white sand shores, its bustling center comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a local experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation offered convenient access to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from nearby cities. However, this service is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are advised to see this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden world boasts expansive views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A hike can start at a very old place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The drive features constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant city takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along quiet lanes lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, often paused by resident felines and chances to stare back at the distant city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed old cartography and
