From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club promises immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar at times hosts performances, making for a great experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a slope and ascend a giant spiral platform for stunning panoramas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining offering substantial food and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features multiple spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling town center is active in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from the region. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of closure. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to see this special railway 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 distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is striking, with shores, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden world boasts sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can begin at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires many bends to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, often paused by local felines and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and