Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement provides more than a swim. Guests may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make dance floor. Staying open late, the bar at times has live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a large spiral lookout for breathtaking views over green pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining with substantial food and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area features multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. Boasting three stunning white sand coastlines, its vibrant center thrives every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided convenient entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. However, this line is reportedly threatened of being closed. The journey includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This undiscovered area offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive involves many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests meander along quiet roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is leisurely, often paused by resident felines and chances to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
