Iconic tall structures on rugged, windswept coastlines, lighthouses evoke the romance of seafaring history and continue to captivate travelers. Some stand abandoned and weathered, while others operate fully, welcome visitors for climbs offering keepers-eye views, or have been repurposed as unique hotels for an unforgettable stay. For enthusiasts of these timeless beacons, here are 10 of the worlds most dazzling lighthouses, blending history, architecture, and breathtaking settings. 1. Hook Head,

Pairing cocktails with travel creates unforgettable experiences. Savoring a signature drink in an exotic destination adds romance to your journey and is a perfect way to connect with fellow travelers. Asia-Pacific travel editor Shawn Low explores classic cocktails and their legendary spots worldwide. The Singapore Sling Created in the early 20th century by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon at Raffles Hotels Long Bar in Singapore, this sweet red cocktail blends pineapple juice, gin, Cointreau, and other

Mention a trip to Cambodia, and conversations inevitably turn to the majestic temples of Angkor—among the most awe-inspiring monuments ever built by humankind. Its no wonder travelers worldwide dream of marveling at Angkor Wats towering spires, navigating the root-entwined gates of Angkor Thom, and gazing into the enigmatic smiles of the Bayon. Yet Cambodia offers far more than its iconic sights. Visitors initially drawn to Siem Reaps temples often leave enchanted by the Khmer peoples warmth, th

Travelers are motivated by a variety of passions. Discover destinations that embody the seven deadly sins and their virtuous opposites through our expert-curated guide to unforgettable spots. Gluttony - Paris, France Paris has long been the global hub of culinary excellence, with its restaurants tempting even the most disciplined eaters. While Tokyo boasts more Michelin-starred venues, nothing rivals a candlelit dinner in a Latin Quarter bistro. Savor a galette at a cozy crêperie, where simple b

What happens when personal passions turn into extraordinary collections? In this excerpt from Lonely Planets 1000 Ultimate Experiences, explore 10 of the worlds most eccentric museums housed behind museum glass. 1. Paris Sewer Museum, France Visitors to the Musée des Egouts de Paris step into disused sections of the citys historic sewer system—a nod to Victor Hugos Les Misérables. The distinctive odor persists despite over a century of history. Exhibits feature photographs, maps, and preserved s

Unique artistic visions have transformed these gardens into extraordinary wonderlands. Discover these captivating spaces and immerse yourself in their magic. 1. Las Pozas, Mexico Edward James, born into immense wealth, was a renowned patron of the arts, supporting surrealists and co-founding the New York City Ballet. Seeking his own Eden, he relocated to Mexico, dedicating his life to creating Las Pozas in the northern mountains—named for its cascading river pools. Here, he built vast concrete s

Discover unforgettable adventures like yoga in India and cooking in Vietnam. This curated extract from Lonely Planets 1000 Ultimate Experiences highlights 10 iconic travel pursuits, each as extraordinary as its destination. 1. Surfing in Hawaii, USA Master surfing in its birthplace, Polynesia, where Europeans first observed heʻe nalu (wave sliding) in the 18th century. Hawaii remains the global hub of surf culture. Beginner-friendly spots like Waikiki Beach and Puena Point offer lessons from exp

Embark on a captivating exploration of global cultures bold expressions of sexuality. From towering phalluses to provocative performances, these 10 landmarks reveal humanitys uninhibited artistic heritage. 1. Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh, India The Chandella dynasty strategically built their cultural capital on Khajurahos remote plains, safeguarding its temples from invaders. Erected between 950 and 1050 AD, these UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase intricate erotic carvings—a stone Kama S

Thailand ranks among the worlds top holiday destinations for its incredible diversity—from pristine beaches and vibrant cities to lush jungles and cultural gems. Whatever your passion, Thailand delivers your perfect slice of paradise.Weve curated our favorite expert-recommended articles to help you discover the side of Thailand that suits you best:Thailand’s Unexplored North – Venture into untouristed corners teeming with authentic charm.Top 10 Ways to Eat Out, Thai-Style – Essential guide for f

The most captivating travel stories often include a hint of fear—those chilling tales shared around a campfire. If you crave spine-tingling adventures with a dark twist, explore these seven haunting destinations renowned for their macabre allure. Island of the Dolls Floating in the canals of Xochimilco, this chinampa (floating garden) is adorned with thousands of weathered dolls. Collected from trash heaps by Don Julián Santana Barrera, they were hung from trees to ward off evil spirits and hono

India, home to over 1.4 billion people, pulses with energy in its crowded streets, stadiums, and festivals. For adventurous travelers, diving into the crowds offers an authentic taste of the nations chaotic vibrancy. Here are five exceptional ways to connect with Indias masses firsthand. Attend a Cricket Match Anywhere in India Cricket is more than a sport in India—its a religion. Played on streets, fields, and grand stadiums, it unites millions. Icons like Sachin Tendulkar are revered as gods.

Indias beverage scene extends far beyond Kingfisher beer. Travelers seeking authentic flavors will find a treasure trove of indigenous drinks across the country. Heres an expert guide to some of Indias most iconic traditional alcoholic beverages. The Renowned Wines of Nashik Nashik, nestled in the fertile Deccan Plateau with a climate akin to Bordeaux, produces world-class wines including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, and crisp Chardonnay. Sula Vineyards Dindori estate reserve and Tiger

October 10, 2011, marked the 100th anniversary of the Republic of China. Though ousted from mainland China in 1949, the ROC government continues to govern Taiwan and a few offshore islands. Boasting a profound cultural and spiritual heritage, exceptional cuisine, world-renowned hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes, Taiwan is often overlooked as a travel destination in favor of its tech exports. This is a missed opportunity—Taiwan offers compelling attractions that belong on every travelers b

You dont need a deep dive into Catholic history to marvel at a cathedral, just as you dont require 5,000 years of Chinese cultural knowledge to appreciate a Taiwanese Taoist temple. Amid the swirling incense, a bit of informed appreciation can transform your visit into a captivating experience. The Basics Temples serve as houses of worship, community hubs, marketplaces, and more. At their core, they are elevated platforms supporting a series of halls with traditional wood post-and-beam frames (n

In this second installment from Lonely Planets 1000 Ultimate Experiences, discover two more extraordinary historical journeys. Grab your compass, ready your donkey, and follow in the footsteps of these legendary explorers. Charles Darwin: Voyage of the Beagle In 1831, British naturalist Charles Darwin embarked on a transformative five-year voyage aboard HMS Beagle to survey and document diverse natural environments. His 1839 publication, Journal and Remarks—popularly known as The Voyage of the B

India excels at celebrating festivals, from grand urban spectacles to intimate village melas (fairs). Its vibrant festival calendar reflects the countrys diverse traditions and landscapes. Diwali stands out as a highlight, marking the triumph of good over evil. The name Diwali, meaning row of lamps, earns it the title Festival of Lights. Spanning five days on auspicious dates at the end of Ashvin and start of Kartika (October/November in the Gregorian calendar), Diwali is primarily a Hindu festi

City breaks arent just for business travelers or adults seeking a sophisticated escape. In fact, cities are ideal family destinations, even with young children. Compact areas brimming with attractions, activities, dining, and fun public transit make them playgrounds for parents and kids alike. Drawn from Lonely Planets Travel with Children, here are our top 10 picks for unforgettable family city breaks: Oaxaca, Mexico This vibrant, walkable Mexican gem features a colorful central plaza perfect f

During Mumbais rush hour, the womens compartment on the Western Line brims with professional women in elegant salwar kameez, tribal women adorned with wrist tattoos and gold earrings, and university students sporting flowing hair, fitted jeans, and backpacks stuffed with engineering notes. Breezes carry scents of sweat and jasmine, mingled with a soulful melody from a singer in the adjacent car. Platforms teem with crowds, as passengers alight with fierce determination amid those boarding. Thoug

Gliding through vibrant Asian streets in a colorful three-wheeled tuk-tuk is an iconic travel experience, especially in Thailand. For newcomers, mastering the art of hailing one and negotiating fares can feel daunting. Armed with Lonely Planets proven tuk-tuk tips, youll soon be weaving through traffic with confidence. What is a Tuk-Tuk? Across Asia, tuk-tuks are also known as rickshaws, trishaws, or mototaxis. These nimble vehicles replaced human-powered cycle rickshaws and hand-pulled versions

Surfers worldwide chase the perfect wave, and Indonesias world-renowned wave gardens are a must-visit for every enthusiast. Whether youre a beginner or seeking advanced challenges, heres your expert guide to the top spots. Bali Bali stands as the heart of Indonesian surfing, boasting an abundance of world-class breaks. Most trips kick off at Kuta Beach, Indonesias original surf resort. Here, waves cater to all levels: advanced riders tackle fun, peaky conditions, while beginners enjoy soft sand