Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. However the first hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes housing bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Seating are routinely moved to make space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a hill and go up a large twisting platform for magnificent views over lush landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty food and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring three beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively center comes alive nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured convenient access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from the region. Yet, this service is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to see this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape offers wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A journey can commence at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey requires many bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
