For countless travelers, African safaris represent the ultimate adventure. Elizabeth Gordon, born and raised in Kenya, has lived this dream her entire life. Accompanying her mother Marcia—who amassed decades of unparalleled firsthand knowledge of Africas finest lodges—Elizabeth explored the continent during childhood. After gaining hands-on expertise managing a luxury camp in Namibia, the mother-daughter duo founded Extraordinary Journeys, a multi-award-winning company crafting bespoke safaris a

Throughout history, paradise has demanded a premium: Persian emperors crafted lavish pairidaēza gardens—the origin of the word paradise—European nobles built grand Renaissance estates hailed as divine, and modern luxury resorts promise travelers a slice of heaven. Yet true serenity doesnt require extravagance. Lonely Planets experienced writers share personal tales of discovering paradise affordably, proving bliss thrives in humble settings. Slowing Down in Guatemalas Río Dulce Guatemalas vib

Beyond iconic destinations like Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, and Barcelona, beaches arent typically associated with city life. Yet, countless vibrant cities line stunning coastlines, offering easy access to sunbathing, waves, and urban adventures. Can skyscrapers and sandy shores truly blend? Discover these 10 under-the-radar beach cities around the world that make it possible. Relax on Tel Avivs Shores, Israel Israels dynamic second city, Tel Aviv, features a perfect Mediterranean climate and vib

Essaouira, Moroccos enchanting coastal gem, blends bohemian vibes with a rich arts scene amid its cobbled medina and breezy beachfront. This idyllic escape from bustling cities offers diverse dining experiences, from affordable street eats to upscale Asian and European fare, crafted by locals and expats alike. Craving authentic tagine or genuine Italian? Essaouiras eclectic restaurants deliver exceptional flavors. Discover the windy citys top culinary highlights below. Adwak Amid ubiquitous t

Marrakesh, the iconic red city, draws visitors to its labyrinthine medina, treasure-filled souks, zellige-tiled mosques, and vibrant Jemaa el-Fna food stalls. As overtourism rises, responsible travelers must prioritize minimal impact to preserve this UNESCO gem. Responsible travel involves mindful choices that respect environmental, social, and cultural aspects. Support local businesses, honor customs, avoid exploitative activities, minimize waste, and choose ethical options for stays, dining, s

Moroccos musical landscape is a captivating fusion of Berber, Andalusian, Arabic, and sub-Saharan influences, echoing through its ancient medinas and vibrant cities. As a leading destination for world-class music festivals, the country offers eclectic genres and rhythms in stunning settings. Here are five standout festivals worth experiencing. Oasis Festival, Marrakesh Oasis Festival is a premier three-day electronic music event in Morocco, embodying its motto Dance Somewhere Different. Held

Egyptian cuisine offers far more than kebabs, falafel, and shawarma. While shish tawoook (grilled chicken) and kofta (grilled meatballs) are menu staples, and falafel and shawarma dominate street food, deeper exploration reveals ancient culinary traditions dating back to the pharaohs. Molokhiyya This rich, dark green stew, crafted from jute mallow leaves (known as molokhiyya in Egypt), rivals kushari as the national dish. Dating to pharaonic times, its slow-cooked in stock with a coriander-ga

As a Lonely Planet local, Erin Harvey has lived in Tunis for two years, savoring its relaxed rhythm and abundant sunny days perfect for enjoying the citys pristine beaches. Rich in culture against a stunning Mediterranean backdrop, Tunis remains refreshingly free from mass tourism. From medina shopping and hidden concerts to dancing until dawn, she adores it all. Jasmine- and bougainvillea-scented streets make this vibrant city utterly enchanting. When friends visit… I guide them through the

Peninsulas are premier travel destinations, blending pristine beaches and charming seaside towns with unique identities that distinguish them from the mainland. They attract nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and free-spirited travelers. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and scenic road trips, these captivating landforms offer endless exploration. Here are eight top recommendations from global experts. Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand This renowned ecotourism gem on New Zealands North Island Bay of P

Moroccos street food scene bursts with flavor beyond iconic tagines and couscous. From dawn to dusk, beloved local stalls offer regional specialties reflecting the countrys diverse cultures and landscapes. Discover the top spots for authentic eats any time of day. A Hearty Breakfast in Fez At dawn near Bab Boujlouds iconic blue gate in Fez, Moroccos culinary heart, tiny stalls serve steaming bowls of bissara—a protein-rich soup of split broad beans topped with olive oil. Pair it with fresh oven

While Mediterranean coasts swarm with tourists under the summer sun, Tunisia delivers uncrowded beaches, solitary Roman ruins, and the unique thrill of Saharan dunes and seaside sands in a single day. Tunisia eagerly welcomes travelers back. This compact North African gem is often eclipsed by its neighbors and past challenges, including 2015 terrorist attacks and the 2011 Arab Spring. A robust security overhaul prompted the UKs Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to ease travel

For millennia, invading armies, explorers, and voyagers have traversed oceans to reach new shores. Islands and peninsulas have offered solitude and strategic vantage points to monks, traders, and wardens, resulting in a captivating array of wind-swept coastal structures worldwide. Think seaside getaways lack depth in history and culture? These enigmatic, ancient, and rugged coastal ruins shatter that notion. Essaouira, Morocco Essaouira has drawn artists, filmmakers, and travelers for generat

These legendary routes deliver awe-inspiring vistas and adrenaline-fueled challenges, captivating adventurers who embrace the discomfort and peril. From rattling buses navigating treacherous passes to rugged 4WDs conquering vast deserts, these roads are renowned as some of the planets harshest. For thrill-seekers, the journey itself eclipses the destination. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan and China Once a vital Silk Road trading path, the Karakoram Highway (KKH) stands as the worlds highest pave

Few pleasures rival sharing a delicious meal with others. Whether with friends, family, or fellow travelers, exceptional food fosters deep connections, creating lifelong bonds and cherished memories. To highlight the profound link between people and cuisine, Lonely Planets experienced editors share their most memorable shared food experiences—from family feasts in Timbuktu and rice wine with Borneos Iban tribe to hand-rolling couscous in Morocco amid language barriers. Making a Mess in Marrak

Every city worldwide boasts a unique local food culture that captures its distinct spirit. While global favorites like Philadelphias Philly cheesesteak or Tokyos ramen shine brightly, many hidden gems await in neighborhood spots or cherished family recipes.For food enthusiasts seeking authentic tastes, our Lonely Planet Locals—experienced residents—share the dishes that truly define their hometowns, from Tangiers fish tagine to Shanghais steaming dumplings.Chicken Machboos in Doha, QatarDespite

From swaying to boomba rhythms with Nairobi crowds to tapping along to Dublins lively traditional Irish fiddles, live music immerses travelers in a citys heritage, people, and energy—creating unforgettable nights out. Finding genuine local music spots can be tricky for visitors. Lonely Planet Locals, our expert insiders, reveal the best venues and emerging trends across their cities. Dust off your dancing shoes for an epic night. Feel the beat with our 8 Cities, 8 Sounds Spotify playlist—an ecle

In todays fast-paced world, travelers increasingly seek restorative escapes to recharge amid urban chaos. Oualidia, a serene coastal town with a stunning lagoon along Moroccos Atlantic shore—two hours south of Casablanca and worlds away from Marrakechs bustling souks—offers profound tranquility. Visit outside peak August season, when crowds from Marrakech and Casablanca arrive, for ultimate peace. From birdwatching to beach strolls, here are six dreamy ways to embrace seaside serenity. Beachc

Experience Tunisias rich cultural heritage intimately by staying in a traditional dar, nestled within the vibrant, age-old medinas. These historic houses offer a front-row seat to local artistry and the lively pulse of medina life. Their interiors feature airy courtyards, cozy hidden nooks, and stunning examples of Tunisian craftsmanship. Beyond their grand doors lie narrow alleys teeming with artisan workshops, bustling markets, and authentic scenes of daily life. Passionate locals are resto

In the early stages of a relationship, milestones like first dates, kisses, arguments, and trips reveal true compatibility. Traveling together, especially on adventures, can profoundly shape a partnership—for better or worse. Lonely Planet Trailblazers Kia and Peter from Atlas & Boots have journeyed worldwide since 2014. Here, they share how extreme travels tested and ultimately deepened their bond. First-Time Beach Camping in Fiji Taveuni, Fijis Pacific paradise, offered ideal conditions

In contrast to Egypts bustling urban centers, Aswan unfolds at a relaxed rhythm. As the countrys southernmost city, it offers a refreshing pause from Cairos chaotic traffic and constant honking. Often overlooked as merely a stopover between Abu Simbel excursions and Nile cruises, this low-key destination is perfect for unwinding and savoring its unique allure. Youll likely hear the local quip, Welcome to Alaska! upon arrival—a playful nod to Aswans scorching heat that lingers throughout your