Globetrotters' Favorite Journey Discoveries of This Year: Secret Spots Across the World
Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their most memorable finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful location presents more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to make space to dance. Open late, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and climb a large spiral platform for magnificent views over green pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre has a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Featuring several beautiful pristine shores, its bustling center is active in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be under threat of closure. The trip features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this special line soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret landscape boasts wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering 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 June. The drive requires numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling city transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
