Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved lanes lined with busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes features live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a large spiral platform for magnificent views over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial dishes and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area features multiple mineral taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. With three wonderful pristine coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. The lodging provided direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, this service is reportedly threatened of being closed. The journey includes spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to experience this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey requires many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant city transports people to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined roads lined with historic houses. The pace is slow, often paused by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The return journey is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
