From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. However the first suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to make space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes features performances, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful escape. Guests may walk to the top of a ski run and go up a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent views over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine with robust fare and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area boasts several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling center is active every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided direct entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The ride features spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to see this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This secret world offers sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The path winds along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can begin at a very old church, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive requires many bends to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along historic roads lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, often interrupted by local felines and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
