Why settle for just a card and flowers this Valentines Day? Make it unforgettable with a romantic getaway. With the holiday falling on a Thursday, mid-week deals offer great savings. Here are six unique destinations you may not have thought of. 1. Step Back in Time in Medieval Canterbury Valentines Day became a lovers celebration thanks to Geoffrey Chaucers Parlement of Foules, a dreamy 700-line poem where birds choose mates at Venuss temple. Charming, isnt it? Chaucers iconic Canterbury, from C

The first glimpse of a hyacinth macaw is mesmerizing—a vibrant parrot with deep indigo feathers and striking yellow eye patches that seems too extraordinary to be real. As the worlds premier wetland for wildlife encounters, the Pantanal delivers unforgettable meetings with colorful, approachable, and sometimes awe-inspiring animals. Its an essential stop for any South America explorer. Spanning over 210,000 square kilometers across central Brazil, eastern Bolivia, and northeastern Paraguay, t

Envision glaciers, cascading waterfalls, penguin colonies, Patagonian vineyards, baby whales along rugged coasts, and the soaring spires of Torres del Paine. First-time visitors to South Americas southern cone often arrive in Buenos Aires or Santiago, excited for these iconic sights—only to discover theyre far from the capitals. Argentina and Chile boast these treasures and more, but reaching them can be costly with soaring domestic airfares. Budget-conscious travelers and long-term explorers sh

Journey through the majestic Avenue of the Volcanoes and tackle the legendary Devils Nose aboard Ecuadors upscale Tren Crucero, or Cruise Train. This scenic route winds from Andean Quito to Pacific-coast Guayaquil. Launched in spring 2021, it signals the triumphant revival of a historic railway. A Storied Past The Tren Crucero glides through Andean farmland between Riobamba and Colta stations. Image by Amar Grover / Lonely Planet. Dubbed the cursed railway in the late 1800s, early efforts t

Today, same-sex marriage is legal in over 35 countries and all 50 U.S. states, empowering LGBTQ+ couples to wed in stunning locales—from volcanic shores and glacial peaks to serene countryside chapels, spanning Scandinavia to Bora Bora. Our expert-curated top 10 LGBTQ+ wedding destinations offer breathtaking romance and seamless on-site ceremonies, backed by welcoming communities and proven accessibility. 1. Hawaii Hawaiis idyllic beaches and lush landscapes make it a dream wedding spot. G

The southern reaches of Chile and Argentina form a hikers paradise. Craggy mountains crowned by glaciers, cascading waterfalls, scrublands with turquoise glacial lakes, wildflower meadows, marshlands, and wind-swept cliffs along the Strait of Magellan offer endless opportunities for immersive foot exploration. From accessible day hikes to demanding multi-day treks through Tierra del Fuegos remote peaks, discover our top five hikes in this iconic region, drawn from extensive firsthand experience

Chiles Carretera Austral picks up where the Lakes District fades, winding 1,240km south through dense forests, snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, islands, and raging waterways. Dont let the name Southern Highway fool you into expecting smooth asphalt. This route cuts through northern Patagonia, where resilient pioneers eke out lives in scattered hamlets. Commissioned by Pinochet and built over two decades, its Chiles toughest road trip. While sections are now paved, much remains gravel and dirt,

Planning your trip to Brazil for the 2014 FIFA World Cup? With tickets secured, accommodations booked, and flights arranged, explore the best attractions beyond the stadiums. Lonely Planet consulted esteemed Brazilian football insiders—including Serie A players, journalists, and World Cup organizers—in each host city. They shared their top recommendations for must-see sights and experiences, drawing from their deep local knowledge and passion for their hometowns. From iconic landmarks to local f

For astronomy enthusiasts drawn to distant galaxies, Chiles Atacama Desert—the worlds driest non-polar desert—delivers an unmatched stargazing experience. Exceptional conditions like minimal rainfall, crystal-clear skies, elevations from 2,410 to 4,270 meters, and negligible light pollution create a premier cosmic observatory. Its no wonder the Atacama hosts leading astronomical research facilities and state-of-the-art observatories. While many are restricted, select sites offer guided tour

Nestled in Argentinas renowned trekking capital, El Chaltén boasts majestic peaks, stunning glaciers, and serene mountain lakes—all accessible on foot within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Yet, whether fierce Patagonian winds ground you, health or footwear limits arise, or trekking fatigue sets in, visitors often seek sweat-free options. Ditch the backpack, kick off your boots, and unwind with these expert-recommended alternatives in El Chaltén. Dining Shiel

Brazilian restaurants abroad often fall short of true gourmet experiences, with all-you-can-eat steakhouses dominating the scene. However, within Brazils diverse borders, the cuisine reflects a rich heritage blending Portuguese, African, and Indigenous traditions—one of the worlds most varied. Influences from Italian, German, Arab, and Japanese immigrants further enrich this culinary tapestry, extending far beyond grilled meats. Food is a highlight of any Brazil trip, yet many visitors miss auth

While Californias Big Sur and Australias Great Ocean Road dominate coastal drive headlines, these five underrated routes deliver equally mesmerizing scenery, vibrant sunsets, pristine surf, unique cultural experiences, exceptional cuisine, and the allure of the road less traveled. Expertly curated for adventure seekers, each itinerary combines dramatic landscapes with authentic local charm and reliable attractions. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland Experience Irelands rugged west coast on the 2,500km

Discover the magic of cinematic landscapes, vibrant kaleidoscopic culture, extraordinary biodiversity, and an infectious rhythm of carefree living. Welcome to Brazil! The worlds fifth-largest country dominates South America, stretching from the Amazon Basin—the planets largest tropical rainforest—to the pampas of southern Rio Grande do Sul, with 7,500 km of sun-kissed beaches in between. Brazils iconic postcard-perfect shores are legendary, but this Latin powerhouse offers much more: lush jungle

In Bogotá, street artists now craft stunning masterpieces on city walls without fear of arrest. These vibrant works vary in technique, scale, and message, often weaving in deep cultural nuances and historical references. To showcase these talents globally and decode their layered messages for visitors, the Bogotá Graffiti Tour was launched. This rewarding 2½-hour walking tour runs twice daily. Simply head to Parque de los Periodistas in the city center and join the street art adventure. Fro

From secluded coves with turquoise waters to dramatic black-sand shores shaped by volcanic forces, beaches ignite our wanderlust like few places can.The next beach to captivate you might be closer than you think, but if youre seeking inspiration, this curated selection from 50 Beaches to Blow Your Mind highlights extraordinary destinations that demand a spot on your travel list. Pack your sunhat and sunglasses—these shores await.Navagio Beach – Zakynthos, GreeceA Paradisiacal MarvelNavagio Beach

South Americas wine regions offer romantic escapes, but you dont need to spend all your pesos to savor their finest vintages. Enjoy high-value glasses or bottles while discovering world-class wineries with expert tips from The Best Things in Life are Free. Mendoza on Two Wheels – Argentina Rent a bicycle to pedal along los caminos del vino (wine roads) near Mendoza city. Mr. Hugo Bikes provides bikes, lockers, maps, and guided tours for an authentic experience. Cafayate Wine Region –

Imagine traversing countries or entire continents on two wheels. Inspired by the acclaimed book Epic Bike Rides of the World, weve gathered firsthand accounts from three seasoned bikepacking bloggers. They share their most unforgettable journeys and expert advice for anyone ready to hit the road. Their unanimous verdict? Just go for it. One things certain: youll embark on an adventure of a lifetime. The Pamir Highway: Dushanbe to Bishkek ‘You’ll get altitude sickness and the runs... the foo

Ready to savor exceptional culinary experiences after New Years resolutions? February offers prime opportunities for food and drink adventures in ideal destinations. Perfect weather elevates wine regions in New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, brimming with vintages. Dont miss Singapores thriving Michelin-starred dining scene. Its the ideal time to explore gourmet delights... Enjoy Intimate Feasts on New Zealand’s South Island February is an optimal time in New Zealand. Temperatures reach

Iconic bucket-list sites, fairy chimneys, beer festivals, and more await culture enthusiasts in May. Journey through the USA’s Deep South for quintessentially American experiences; beat the crowds to Machu Picchu; explore Mother Nature’s wonders in Cappadocia, Turkey; and celebrate in Prague during its most vibrant month. Beat the Crowds to Machu Picchu Machu Picchu tops many bucket lists worldwide. Its dramatic perch and enigmatic history—hidden for centuries—create an enchanting allure. P

Humans have expressed creativity on walls for millennia—the oldest known cave paintings date back over 40,000 years. Today, this ancient tradition has evolved into the global phenomenon of street art. Street art transforms urban spaces worldwide, often reflecting local culture and history, and offering an immersive way to discover destinations. Explore eight standout cities, drawn from our new Street Art book, home to some of the worlds finest metropolitan masterpieces. Berlin, Germany Berl