Discover the World's Ultimate Travel Guilty Pleasures from Lonely Planet
Everyone deserves a moment of indulgence now and then. In this curated extract from Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2012, expert travelers reveal some of the most irresistible guilty pleasures the world has to offer.
Embrace the Excess: Las Vegas, USA
Sin City's legendary reputation for modern indulgence—immortalized in Hunter S. Thompson's Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and the film The Hangover—makes it the ultimate destination for letting loose. Home to more casinos than anywhere else on Earth, the world's largest buffet, the biggest strip club, and 15 of the planet's 20 largest hotels, Vegas epitomizes over-the-top fun. With the slogan 'What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,' expect the unexpected.
Savor Shisha Like a Local: Cairo, Egypt
The allure of the shisha—Egypt's iconic waterpipe—lies in its mesmerizing ritual: the bubbling base, curly hose, ornate brass stem, and clay bowl. Sampling one at a traditional coffee shop is a must for immersing in Egyptian culture. Order a hagar (sticky tobacco; try apple for tourists or plain for authenticity) paired with tea, coffee, or karkadai (hibiscus brew).
Live Like Royalty: Jaipur, India
Jaipur's original palace from 1727, now the Raj Palace heritage hotel, exemplifies authentic Mughal architecture with fluted archways, gold-leaf ceilings, marble bathrooms, ivory furnishings, and crystal chandeliers. Guests are treated like maharajas. For ultimate luxury, book the Shahi Mahal Presidential Suite at $53,000 per night (USD), complete with private pool, personal spa, and dedicated staff.
Drive a Ferrari Dream: Florence, Italy
Florence, a treasure trove of Renaissance art in palaces, churches, and museums, offers more than cultural icons. Escape the crowds by renting a Ferrari for a half-day tour through Tuscany's Chianti hills, vineyards, and villages along the historic Mille Miglia race route—a thrilling taste of Italian design mastery.
Indulge in Dessert Extravagance: Bangkok, Thailand
At Mezzaluna, 65 stories above the city with panoramic views, savor the Chocolate Variation: Madagascar chocolate cake, strawberry-chocolate mousse, champagne sherbet, crème brûlée with truffles, edible gold leaf, and rare Moyet Très Vieille Grande No 7 cognac. This world's priciest dessert? A staggering US$640.
Toast Like a Nomad: Mongolia
In a traditional ger on the Mongolian steppes, expect a generous bowl of airag—fermented horse milk moonshine that's tangy and potent. Tradition demands generous consumption, and if Genghis Khan vodka appears, brace for a full bottle (non-resealable). Revelry may end with lively (if noisy) celebrations.
For expert travel inspiration and tips, grab Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012 today!
Best in Travel 2012 also available on the iBookstore.
