Readers' Favorite Travel Finds of This Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe
From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their standout encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. Yet the first doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Retro Music in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live music, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine with substantial food and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling centre is active nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided easy a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be at risk of closure. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden area provides wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey features constant turns to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also presents the chance for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city takes people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to look back at the far-off city. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
