Lonely Planet's Top 10 Best Things to Do in 2011: Unmissable Global Experiences
Make 2011 unforgettable with these meaningful, globe-spanning experiences, drawn from Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2011. From jungle treks and cricket fever to historic races and timeless rituals, here's our expert-curated list of the year's top 10 activities.
1. Hug a Tree in the Amazon
The United Nations has declared 2011 the International Year of the Forest, with events worldwide from El Salvador to Bulgaria aimed at promoting and preserving global woodlands. Celebrate by visiting the ultimate forest: the Amazon. Spanning an area as vast as the continental U.S., it offers endless adventures despite deforestation challenges. Start in Manaus, Brazil's Amazon gateway—reachable by plane or a scenic five-day boat journey from Belém. Book guided jungle hikes, dolphin and wildlife spotting (toucan, monkeys), piranha fishing, or luxurious stilted cabins. Visit June-July for high-water canoe 'hikes.' Trips also depart from Leticia, Colombia, or Iquitos, Peru.
2. Cricket in India and Sri Lanka
Break the ice with locals via Bollywood or curry, but elevate your conversations with cricket—India's true national passion. 2011 marks the 290th anniversary of the first recorded match in India, and the Cricket World Cup (India's third hosting) runs February-March across India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. India seeks a home victory (previously won only in England, 1983), challenging three-time champions Australia. Join locals for impromptu lessons anywhere, and aim for seats at Mumbai's revamped Wankhede Stadium for the final.
4. DIY Wonders of the World List
We love lists! In 2011, expand the canon with the New7Wonders of Nature's second edition, public-voted highlights including Venezuela's Angel Falls, Argentina/Brazil's Iguazú Falls, and Vietnam's Halong Bay. Tick off all seven, or craft your own: Seven Wonders of Sports, Epic Political Fails, or Odoriferous Destinations.
6. FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, Oslo, Norway
Norwegians' patriotic fervor peaks at home events. Oslo hosts the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships from February 24 to March 6, featuring 21 events including the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump—the world's oldest. Explore its museum for ski jumping's nuances, 4,000-year history, and a thrilling (nausea-inducing) simulator.
7. Climb a 'Stairway to Heaven'
Mark the 40th anniversary of Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven' (November 8) with a hike near Bron-Yr-Aur, the Welsh cottage where Jimmy Page crafted its legendary riffs. In Snowdonia National Park's south, tackle 892m Cader Idris via five-hour routes like rocky Ty Nant or Dolgellau Paths—or the thigh-burning Minffordd Path. Summit views inspire awe.
8. Isle of Man Motorbike Race
This tax haven and outdoor paradise turns adrenaline central in May-June for the Tourist Trophy (TT) motorbike races—celebrating its 100th year in 2011, drawing 50,000 spectators. Fly in or ferry from Liverpool; explore via rental bike or the 95-mile Raad ny Foillan coastal path. View TT legends at Douglas' Manx Museum.
9. Indy 500, Indianapolis, USA
America's premier motorsport hits its centennial in 2011. Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the Indy 500 over Memorial Day weekend (late May), with month-long festivities. Tour the 2.5-mile oval by bus—at a leisurely 60km/h.
10. Write a Postcard
In our era of e-books, apps, and instant sharing, rediscover the postcard—a 100-year-old travel tradition. It uncovers hidden gems like stationery shops, post offices, quirky stamps, and the joy of pen-on-paper storytelling, fostering deeper connections.
