Do your travels prioritize complete relaxation, or do you seek to immerse yourself in a destinations rich history? Memorials evoke powerful emotions—fascination, inspiration, and sometimes unease. Winston Churchill urged drawing a veil over WWIIs horrors, yet philosopher George Santayana wisely noted, Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. This perspective underscores the value of these sites. Discover this curated selection of renowned memorials from around the globe: Au

Indias hill stations, first established by the British during the Raj era, continue to captivate visitors with their cool climate, offering respite from the scorching plains in summer and, in northern regions, snow-capped peaks for winter skiing. However, their immense popularity threatens overcrowding. Shimla, once the summer capital of the British Raj and a Bollywood favorite for its scenic Victorian architecture, faces heavy traffic and strain on its historic infrastructure. How are these des

Arriving at the Bidar bus stand in Karnataka via the states reliable transport, Im always reminded why this town remains one of Indias best-kept travel secrets. Researching the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s India guidebook, I navigated bustling lanes to the towns outskirts, where grand 15th-century ruins stand silently amid encroaching modernity. Few travelers know these historical treasures on the Deccan Plateaus remote fringes. These decaying architectural gems hail from Bidars peak a

After the devastating partition of Punjab in 1947, millions of displaced Punjabis spread across India and beyond. Many opened restaurants featuring their beloved dishes, with the exotic tandoor oven drawing Indians nationwide. This fusion of Punjabi and Mughlai flavors became synonymous with Indian cuisine globally. Restaurants, often called hotels, are marked as veg, pure veg, or non-veg. Pure veg means no eggs and zero risk of meat contamination. Mid-range spots typically offer South Indian ve

One of the greatest pleasures of dining out in Turkey is the flexibility to order small plates gradually. Start with one or two dishes, gauge your appetite, and add more as desired. Exercise caution with unsolicited table nibbles like nuts or olives—they may appear complimentary but could inflate your bill. That said, Turkish hospitality shines through: expect free refills on fruit with rakı. When in doubt, ask bedava mı? (is it free?). Lokanta 'Turkish restaurant in Sultanahmet' 

Its easy to be cynical about New Years Eve, but truthfully, most of us join the global countdown to the new year. Whether seeking dazzling fireworks, serene reflection in a peaceful retreat, or a midnight kiss, discover Lonely Planet experts curated travel recommendations for an epic New Years Eve. Prague, Czech Republic, recommended by Tom Hall, Travel Editor at Lonely Planet Church of Our Lady before Tyn by Davidlohr Bueso. Creative Commons Attribution licence Prague delivers an exceptiona

Travel gadgets and gear are essential for modern adventurers, but they dont have to drain your budget. Smart shopping during your trips can save significantly, leaving more for experiences like dining and sightseeing. Discover our expert-curated list of top destinations for electronics, cameras, and travel tech. Hong Kong electronics market by maltman23. Creative Commons ShareAlike Licence Hong Kong Beyond property, Hong Kong offers exceptional value on electronics and cameras. Many mainland

Elevate your city getaway with a luxurious high tea in elegant surroundings. This timeless English tradition, dating back to the 1840s, features delicate pastries, buttery scones, finger sandwiches, and often a glass of champagne. Unsurprisingly, the globes premier venues are found in historic British colonial outposts, typically at prestigious hotels. High tea in Hong Kong by Connie Ma, Creative Commons Attribution Sharealike licence Whether seeking classic London sophistication or innov

Love trekking but prone to altitude sickness? Or prefer immersive multi-day hikes without acclimatization hassles? Altitude sickness typically strikes above 2,500-3,000 meters (8,200-9,850 feet), affecting many regardless of fitness. While iconic routes like Perus Inca Trail and Tanzanias Kilimanjaro offer unparalleled beauty, their high elevations can pose health risks. Discover our curated list of five exceptional low-altitude treks featuring diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas—no oxygen n

Sri Lanka captivates the senses with jasmine-scented air, richly spiced cuisine, and stunning landscapes—from vibrant green rice paddies and swaying palm forests to mist-shrouded tea plantations. For many travelers, however, the islands true highlight boils down to two words: its world-class beaches. Whether youre seeking luxury at boutique beach resorts, snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, mastering surf on gentle waves, or discovering a secluded paradise, Sri Lanka delivers palm-fringed perfe

Feel the rush of wind in your hair, watch breathtaking landscapes unfold, and glide through serene forests: cycling offers one of the healthiest and most exhilarating ways to connect with the outdoors. Discover our curated selection of exceptional cycling routes, perfect for all levels—from relaxing day trips to challenging multi-day journeys. 'Brandenburg Gate, Berlin' by eleephotography. CC SA 2.0 Berlin-Copenhagen, Germany/Denmark (630km) This dedicated capital-to-capital route

Often overlooked due to its reputation for poverty and frequent flooding, Bangladesh is an off-the-beaten-path destination that rewards adventurous travelers. Embrace the departure from home comforts, and youll discover a verdant paradise with unparalleled hospitality—one of South Asias most captivating hidden gems. Ready to explore? This expert guide, informed by Lonely Planet author Daniel McCrohan, highlights the must-see attractions in one of the worlds least-visited countries. River Trips W

Experience the allure of golf beyond the greens: the fresh scent of dew-kissed grass, the satisfying crack of a perfect drive, and the sight of a ball soaring down the fairway. Golf is captivating, but not every trip needs to be all about the game. Many renowned courses integrate exciting diversions amid their layouts, ensuring enjoyment for players of all skill levels—from pros to beginners—and non-golfers alike. Harness Newton’s Laws at the World’s Lowest Course At Furnace Creek Golf Course, t

It was my husbands first trip to Myanmar, and I was excited to introduce Chris to my birth country and the beloved dishes of my childhood. One standout was let thoke, meaning hand-mixed. This hearty salad tosses fresh ingredients in a flavorful dressing, far more substantial than Western salads. When my cousin asked our dinner preference, I eagerly suggested let thoke. Id prepared it for Chris at home before, but this was his first taste of let thoke sone—an assortment (sone) where you assemble

Burmese cuisine often gets an undeserved bad reputation. While it can be richer and less spicy than neighboring Thai food, with some guidance, youll discover flavorful, memorable meals throughout Myanmar. A Traditional Burmese Meal T’ămìn (rice), also known as htamin, forms the heart of every Burmese meal. Its paired with diverse dishes reflecting Burmese, Mon, Indian, and Chinese influences. These feature local plant- and seafood-based ingredients, balancing sour, salty, spicy, and bitter fla

Whether celebrating lifelong commitment or seeking healing after a breakup, these destinations from Lonely Planets 1000 Ultimate Experiences offer unforgettable experiences for every stage of romance. 1. Leh, India From Leh in Indias Ladakh region, embark on a two-day trek (mid-July to mid-September) across the roof of the world—an ideal adventure for newlyweds. Celebrate your marriage at the end of day one, then test your partnership on day two at 5,600m altitude. Cross thrilling swing bridges

Indulging in vibrant Indian street food is a highlight of any trip to India. Follow these proven tips from seasoned travelers to savor the flavors safely and minimize digestive risks. 1. Allow a few days to acclimate to local cuisine, particularly if spicy foods are new to you. 'colors - indian street vendor' by utpal. CC BY 2.0 2. Follow the crowd: If locals steer clear of a vendor, so should you. Opt for spots popular with families, as they often prioritize hygiene. 'sa

Nothing compares to the thrill of a wild swim in a pristine, secluded natural setting. Whether gliding through a crystal-clear river or venturing into the heart of a serene lake, youll feel immersed in the environment like never before. Experience these exceptional wild swimming locations to elevate your travels. Always swim with a buddy, heed local advice on currents and conditions, and prioritize safety before entering the water. A man dives into a river beneath the iconic Pont du Gard Rom

Ice cream is an essential holiday indulgence. Skip the ordinary vanilla and explore innovative parlors worldwide—from London and Sydney to Los Angeles and Tokyo—where experts craft extraordinary flavors and techniques. Treat yourself to these standout spots! London Chin Chin Labs by Paul Richards (image courtesy of Chin Chin Labs) Londons culinary scene thrives on innovation, extending to casual treats. In Camden, discover Europes first liquid nitrogen ice cream bar at Chin Chin Laboratoris

While savoring a sunset with a cold beer on the beach is delightful, nothing compares to the thrill of rising before dawn for a mountaintop or clifftop sunrise. Youll greet the day with endless adventure possibilities—or retreat for more sleep. These premier locations promise awe-inspiring vistas backed by traveler experiences worldwide. Sunrise over Mount Batur. Image by Dennis Stauffer / Flickr / Getty Images. Uluru, Australia Australias iconic Uluru shines brightest at dawn. Arrive by 4 a