From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene getaway. Travelers can hike to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall spiral platform for magnificent vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering hearty food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features several medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. With three beautiful white sand shores, its vibrant centre thrives every night with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from the region. But, this service is reportedly threatened of closure. The trip features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this special railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret landscape boasts sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can begin at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey involves many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests stroll along tree-lined streets lined with historic houses. The rhythm is slow, frequently broken by friendly cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite 16th-century maps and
