Globetrotters' Top Journey Finds of The Past Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe

From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable encounters from their journeys.

A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast

Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the early suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.

Retro Music in Berlin

For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club is a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, making for a fantastic evening.

Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town

Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and ascend a large twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine serving substantial dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the town centre features multiple mineral water fountains to try.

Sardinian Seaside Beauty

The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With multiple beautiful pristine shores, its bustling centre is active every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.

A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France

Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from a nearby city. Yet, the route is reportedly at risk of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.

Island Heritage in the Baltic

The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.

Coastal Solitude in Essex

One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden world offers expansive vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.

Automotive Marvel in Romania

Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey features many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.

Island Escape Close to a Major City

A short journey from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests stroll along historic lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, frequently broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.

Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace

Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and