Experienced travelers often struggle to name a single favorite destination amid countless journeys. Lonely Planet co-founder Tony Wheeler, with decades of global exploration, faced this challenge head-on. We simplified it by asking for his top 10 standout cities, featured in our book The Cities Book. Presented in alphabetical order, here are the metropolises that have most captivated him. Berlin, Germany I regret never visiting Berlin during the Iron Curtain era, when it was divided into East

Xisi, literally West Four, is a charming neighborhood in western Beijing, named for its four intricately carved paifang (memorial arches) that once marked the crossroads of Xisi Dajie and Fuchengmennei Dajie. The originals are gone—a replica stands at the Xisi subway entrance—but the area preserves historic public buildings, temples, and winding hutong alleys, delivering an authentic, low-key local atmosphere in this under-the-radar district. Adding to its allure, independent cafes, restaurants,

Have you explored every corner of the globe? Revitalize your travel bucket list with these exceptional new openings and immersive experiences launching in 2018. Ninja Experiences, Japan Japan is revitalizing the ancient ninja tradition in 2018 with diverse activities. Travelers can join specialized ninja tours, staying in historic sites like Iga Province—home to sacred ninja grounds and prestigious schools. Tokyo will unveil a new Ninja Museum and Ninja Academy, offering training supervised b

An increasing number of travelers are embracing vegan and vegetarian dining for its proven health benefits, positive environmental impact, and ethical advantages for animals. Discover these exceptional plant-based eateries across the globe, from innovative newcomers to enduring classics that cater to conscious foodies. The Soul Kitchen, Paris, France Just a short walk from the iconic Sacré-Coeur basilica, The Soul Kitchen stands out among Montmartres charming cafés. Operated by three passiona

Most visitors to Hong Kong touch down at Hong Kong International Airport on Lantau Islands reclaimed northern shores, then rush by taxi or MTR to the bustling districts of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. A few return for Disneyland or the iconic Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the Tian Tan Buddha atop Ngong Ping hill, yet many overlook the islands deeper allure. For those seeking Hong Kongs serene side, dedicating time to explore Lantau—the citys largest island—reveals natural beauty, rich history,

Nothing compares to the thrill of boarding your first international flight, heart racing as the plane accelerates down the runway. The excitement of the unknown, the nerves of stepping into new territory, and the anticipation of discoveries ahead make it unforgettable. Whether youre just starting to explore the world or dusting off your passport for the very first time, your inaugural overseas adventure is a transformative milestone. While the unexpected is part of the journey, selecting the rig

The holiday season often sparks panic buying amid crowded high streets and chaotic markets. Skip the stress and regrettable last-minute purchases with expert advice from Lonely Planet Locals. Discover quirky gifts, authentic local products, and festive refueling spots for seamless Christmas shopping in 10 global cities. Porto, Portugal Winter transforms Porto into a enchanting destination with spindly trees framing weathered buildings for a magical, Harry Potter-like ambiance. Luminous ice-sk

Born and raised in Seoul, Lonely Planet contributor Hahna Yoon lived in New York for 17 years before returning to South Korea eight years ago. With her deep roots and global perspective, she ranks Seoul among Asias premier destinations for exploration, dining, and nightlife. Hahna urges visitors to skip the main tourist hubs and dive into lesser-known neighborhoods, uncovering cozy hole-in-the-wall eateries and secretive bars that reveal the citys authentic soul. When friends visit Seoul… I t

In the heart of bustling Hong Kong, speakeasies offer an alluring contrast to the citys vibrant nightlife. These chic, secretive bars, concealed within labyrinthine alleyways, bustling streets, and towering commercial buildings, deliver exceptional cocktails and intimate atmospheres. Discover our curated list of the 10 best Prohibition-inspired speakeasies. Stockton Spot the unassuming grey metal door at a lively Central junction leading to Stockton, a Hunter S. Thompson-inspired retreat. Plu

Cities brim with iconic sights, guided tours, and activities that captivate travelers. Yet, true authenticity—a genuine glimpse into a destinations soul—often lies beyond the usual paths. Lonely Planets network of experienced local writers shares their insider recommendations for immersing yourself in the cultural heartbeat of their hometowns. Whether savoring traditional dishes at tucked-away eateries, mingling with locals at vibrant markets, or dancing to samba rhythms deep into the night, the

The Tien Shan Mountains take your breath away—not just with their towering heights sculpted by melting glaciers and sunlit summits, but with the profound realization that youre standing amid Kyrgyzstans celestial mountains, the most landlocked spot on Earth. The Allure of Inaccessibility Named after the Chinese tian shan—mountains of heaven—the Tien Shan range forms a vast network of peaks and valleys along the China-Central Asia border. It sweeps southwest through Kyrgyzstan, linking with th

Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, kicks off the lunar calendar with joyous celebrations across Hong Kong. For hardworking Hongkongers, its a cherished time to feast, reunite with family, exchange red packets (lai see) filled with money, and invite good fortune into the new year. Hong Kong delivers some of the worlds most electrifying Chinese New Year festivities, making it easy for visitors to dive in and experience the magic firsthand. Discover the best ways to celebrate Chinese New

Just three decades ago, Shenzhen was a sleepy fishing village bordering Hong Kong in mainland China. Today, it stands as one of Chinas premier economic powerhouses in the bustling Pearl River Delta, home to over 12 million residents. Chinas wealthiest city, Shenzhen rose to prominence as the worlds manufacturing hub after becoming a special economic zone in the late 1980s. Over the past decade, it has evolved into a global tech innovation center, hosting some of Chinas most cutting-edge companie

Bowl foods have evolved far beyond traditional soups and stews. From nutrient-packed Buddha bowls to creatively layered deconstructed burritos, these dishes dominate Instagram with their vibrant, innovative designs. Yet, this trend is no fleeting fad—its rooted in global comfort eating. At their core, bowl foods deliver pure comfort, whether its fresh poke on Hawaiis sunny shores, restorative pho in Vietnam, or hearty Welsh cawl warming you from within. This universal appeal fosters deep connect

Water parks thrill kids and adults alike, but after endless slides down plastic tubes, families often crave authentic, nature-immersed excitement. Discover destinations where the whole family can embrace waters power while connecting with the natural world. Log flumes offer fun, but these eight expert-recommended watery adventures deliver unforgettable splashes and lasting memories. Experience the Power of Waterfalls Let kids unleash their energy safely under roaring cascades. At Croatias Krk

While the iconic Pamir Highway garners much attention, Tajikistans Fan Mountains offer a breathtaking alpine wonderland of rugged landscapes and crystal-clear glacial lakes. Easily accessible from the Zeravshan River Valley and the regional hub of Penjikent, this area perfectly blends village homestays with ancient connecting trails. An underappreciated gem even among Central Asias remote routes, the Fan Mountains deliver unparalleled adventure. Join us on a visual journey through its towering p

Renowned as the Venice of the East for its picturesque canal network, Suzhou on Chinas eastern seaboard is equally celebrated for its exquisite classical gardens. Suzhou preserves 69 classical gardens today, nine of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. What elevates these gardens to iconic status, and what key features should visitors seek out? Suzhous Rich Historical Legacy Situated in the Yangtze River Delta near Taihu Lake—one of Chinas largest freshwater lakes—Suzhou has thrived on its

The World Nomad Games, launched in 2016, celebrate Kyrgyzstans rich nomadic heritage through traditional sports and culture—Central Asias premier event, often dubbed the Olympics for nomads. Expect thrilling horse games, intense wrestling, hundreds of yurts, and thousands donning the iconic white kalpak—Kyrgyzstans national hat symbolizing the snowy peaks of the Tian Shan mountains. Visitors from around the globe immerse themselves in this vibrant festival, evoking the spirit of ancient nomadic

Sichuan (四川) – the China of China. This western province encapsulates everything that captivates travelers to the Middle Kingdom: bold spicy cuisine, endearing giant pandas, diverse ancient cultures, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Today, there are even more compelling reasons to visit the Land of Four Rivers (四川). Chengdu, the provincial capital, has evolved into a vibrant, modern metropolis brimming with innovative design, art scenes, and contemporary culture. New railway lines are enhanc

Coastal rock formations endure constant battering from nature. Malta’s Azure Window collapsed in 2017, only eight of the original 12 Apostles remain along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, and New Zealand’s Elephant Rock lost its trunk during a 2016 earthquake. Yet geology enthusiasts and fans of dramatic seaside landscapes still have much to explore. Discover 10 of the world’s most striking coastal rock formations. Durdle Door – Dorset, England This iconic limestone arch on Dorset’s Jurassic Coa