Globetrotters' Favorite Travel Finds of The Past Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots provide crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are often pushed aside to make dancing. Operating late, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a large wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining with hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa features multiple spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Boasting several wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling town center thrives every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured direct entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from the region. But, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, with shores, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The journey requires many switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, frequently broken by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and