Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location offers beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes filled with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the top of a slope and climb a large spiral viewing tower for stunning vistas over green pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic dining offering hearty fare and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features multiple medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring three beautiful white sand shores, its bustling town center thrives nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided easy a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away 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 a nearby city. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden landscape offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a 7th-century church, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The trip involves numerous turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
