lonely planet travel list

Ultimate travel list: Lonely Planet's top sights in the world (41 to 50)

Aug 17, 2015 • 6 min read

The most mind-blowing sights on the planet come in a vast array of forms – from urban wonders like the colourful, cobbled streets of old Havana to epic works of nature like the plains of the Serengeti.

The must-see places in this final instalment of our series on the top 50 sights of Lonely Planet's ultimate travel list  demonstrate just how diverse our world is. All the more reason to get out there now!

41. Pompeii, Italy

The dark, looming cone of Mt Vesuvius seems awfully close indeed. As you wander the eerily well-preserved alleyways of this ancient city, you can’t help but keep looking back to that volcano – all 1280-still-active-metres of it. Its last cataclysmic eruption occurred in AD 79. And they reckon Vesuvius is likely to have a really big blowout about every 2000 years... Do the math. It certainly adds a frisson to exploring Pompeii , the unlucky spot that suffered the brunt of Vesuvius’ incendiary ire back in the 1st century.

Pompeii itself is a marvel. The city was probably founded in the 7th century BC, and became a fashionable holiday spot on the Bay of Naples. When the volcano went boom, thousands perished, and Pompeii was entombed under a layer of lapilli (burning pumice stone) for over a millennia – a moment-in-time capsule of Roman life, albeit buried in horrific circumstances.

42. Habana Vieja, Cuba

Habana Vieja – old Havana – is the closest you can come to stepping into a sepia-tinted vintage photograph: stroll along cobbled streets, past pastel buildings and vintage cars.

The atmospheric decay makes it a hit with photographers, but this is no mausoleum. Walk the alleys at night and see Cubanos dancing to the radio and playing dominos. With the opening of relations between Cuba and the US, modernisation will become rapid.

43. Table Mountain, South Africa

Other cities have signature buildings or manmade monuments, Cape Town has its own mountain. Watching clouds accumulate on Table Mountain ’s plateau, between Lion’s Head and Devil’s Peak, and then spilling over its sides – a phenomenon known as the tablecloth effect – is a bankable travel moment.

You can catch a cable car up, but it’s better to earn the panorama across South Africa’s most vibrant city towards the Cape of Good Hope. Various routes take you to vantage points. The classic climb follows Platteklip Gorge, in the footsteps of António de Saldanha, whose first recorded ascent was in 1503. To reach the top, aim for 1088m-high Maclear’s Beacon, just above the Upper Cableway station.

44. Old Town Square, Czech Republic

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to tumble into the pages of a Hans Christian Andersen fairy-tale, just step into Prague’s Old Town Square . In this pedestrian-packed medieval market place, ornate frontages rise up on all sides like pieces of gingerbread and heels click on cobbles that have seen nearly a millennium of footfalls. As the setting for Prague’s famous astronomical clock – a madcap creation from 1410 – the square is visited by almost everyone, but that doesn’t diminish its sense of timeless wonder. There are busking jazz bands and concerts, political meetings and fashion shows, plus Christmas and Easter markets, all watched over by a brooding art nouveau statue of Jan Hus.

45. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

No other park in the world spawns such a magnificent wildlife spectacle. It starts on the plains of the Serengeti , where wildebeest are born between January and March. Together with their herds they number 1.5 million, and come late April they start ’The Great Migration’ – a 3000km, eight-month round trip to the Masai Mara. Watching it all from the sidelines are some of Africa’s greatest safari species: lion, elephant, rhino, giraffe and buffalo.

46. Hermitage, Russia

One of the oldest and most comprehensive museums in the world, the Hermitage is a superlative-defying assemblage of priceless artistic masterpieces and architectural marvels. Originally commissioned by Catherine the Great (a self-confessed art ’glutton’) in 1764 to store her private collection, the museum now lays claim to a staggering three million items.

Housed in the gilded-green Winter Palace and five adjoining riverside buildings – all of them imposing and imperious – the Hermitage’s labyrinthine halls and rarefied rooms teem with treasures spanning the ages. Under the museum’s roofs are everything from Egyptian antiquities to contemporary installations and more Old Masters, Impressionists, post-Impressionists, Fabergé eggs and invaluable icons than you can shake a paintbrush at.

47. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Geologists may quibble over whether the Bay of Kotor is the only fjord on the Mediterranean, but with a landscape this charismatic, who really cares what you call it. In the many twists and turns of the bay, rugged mountains of lavender-grey scree tumble down to a coastal fringe of olive and pomegranate trees above a limpid opal sea. Whether you are kayaking around rocky coves, sailing across to islands topped with monasteries or trekking into the craggy hinterland, you will be far too captivated by your surroundings to worry about how to classify it.

48. Jaisalmer, India

When the magnificent desert fortress of Jaisalmer finally fell to invading armies, its female inhabitants committed mass suicide while its warriors rode out to certain death; anything was better than the dishonour of being captured as a slave. So sure, the Rajputs of Jaisalmer were certainly a proud people, but when you look at their glorious sandstone city, you’ll realise they had a lot to be proud of.

Even after four centuries, their honey-coloured fortress still rises from the sandy plains like a mirage, encircled by 99 mighty bastions. Inside, the beautiful structure is a crazed tangle of tiny lines, complete with graceful havelis (merchants’ houses) and ancient temples that almost collapse under the weight of all the carvings and statuary. No place more successfully evokes the romance of Rajasthan .

49. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

The rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater is not just one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas, but a place where every arriving visitor faces a dilemma – should I stay, or should I go? Staying is tempting as the views into the crater become more and more spellbinding the longer one looks. The fertile floor far below, hemmed in by dramatic escarpments hundreds of metres tall, is decorated with swamps, forests, Lake Magadi and swathes of savannah grasses. The fact everyone eventually pulls themselves away reflects nothing negative about the view, but rather the sheer riches of what lies beneath.

The concentration of wildlife on the Ngorongoro Crater floor, particularly of lions and other large predators, is unparalleled anywhere else in Africa, and it remains one of the planet’s very best places to see black rhino in the wild.

50. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Japan

What was once ground zero for the world’s first nuclear attack is now a green expanse , home to numerous memorials – a peaceful place to wander and reflect. The ruins of the only structure to survive the bombing, Genbaku Dome, still stand as a blunt reminder of the devastation.

The Pond of Peace is the park’s central feature and leads to the cenotaph, a curved monument displaying all the names of known victims. Emotions run high on a visit here, but with sadness also comes hope in the human spirit.

Work your way to the top spot, starting with contenders 31-40 . View the complete list of the 500 best sights on the planet in our new title Ultimate Travel, which is available now in  Lonely Planet's shop and where books are sold.

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Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List is here

Each year, excitement levels are high when Lonely Planet release their best in travel lists and this year their brand-new  Ultimate Travel List  is no exception.  

A ccording to Lonely Planet , the full list includes the  “ 500 most thrilling, memorable, downright interesting places on this planet ranked in order of their brilliance ” .  

And, since w e love hooking people up with epic travels around the world,  we’re unpacking the top experiences from  Lonely Planet’s list , so  when it’s safe to hit the road again   we  can  help  you get there .  

1. Explore Petra in Jordan

Intrepid travellers at Petra. Image by Ben Macnamara.

The UNESCO  w orld  h eritage listed   Petra  might  be known to the masses  thanks to Indiana Jones, but as anyone who has explored this  ancient city will tell you, there’s so much more to it than the famous Treasury façade.  For many  people  who have been stuck at home this year, the opportunity  to stretch your legs   on  Petra’s trails of varying steepness will be a welcome cha lle nge.  From  the towering Monastery building,  to  the winding walk down the Siq,  or taking in  the spectacular views from the High Place of Sacrifice ,  your  local guide  will be able to fill you in on   the  rich  history of the  city and the  biblical Nabateans who called Petra home.   

Go there:   

• On our  4-day Jordan Retreat  
• On our 9-day Jordan and Egypt Express

2. Visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

Napping with a new friend. Image by Betty wants in.

Since  Charles  Darwin’s explorations , the  bio-diverse  archipelago   of the  Galapagos Islands   has   attract ed  nature-loving explorers from every corner of the globe.  Travel trends for 2021 are already suggesting that people are craving a connection with nature and the  wide-open  spaces of wilderness areas.  S pend time searching for famed blue-footed boobies, Galapagos G iant Tortoises, sea lions, spiky iguanas and more . Ecotourism is a big part of the identity of the 17 islands that make up the national park, so much so that the airport is made from mostly recycled materials and runs on wind and solar power .  

Go there:  

• On our 9-day Galapagos Discovery
• On our  10-day Ultimate Galapagos Sailing  

3. Learn about First Nations culture in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

While it might be awhile before foreigners can travel to Australia again, when  you can ,  you should  absolutely visit the  country’s  cultural heartland :  Uluru  (or if you’re based in Australia, head there even sooner!) .  The iconic rock  is sacred to the First Nations  community  in the area, the  Aṉangu  people , which is why Intrepid were among the first travel  companies to ban climbing . And really, there are endless better ways to spend your time in the Red Centre, including  learning about the ancient rock art from a First Nations guide, finding the perfect water hole to swim in, or watching the  golden  s un   set over the  vibrant red horizon.  

• On our  3-day Uluru Adventure  
• On our  5-day Outback Camping Adventure  

4. Embrace slow travel in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Cruising the canals. Image by Damian Raggatt.

After  months of video calls it’s not surprising that people are looking to unplug  and unwind, making the remote Okavango Delta in Botswana a dream destination.  Spend time cruising the canals in a traditional mokoro, a dugout canoe steered by a friendly local ‘poler’ for the true Okavango waterways experience. This is the  perfect vantage point to keep an eye out for Africa’s Big Five, as well as the abundance of birdlife and  other spectacular scenery.   

• On our  10-day Okavango Experience  
• On our  10-day Botswana Adventure  

5.  Get active at  L ake Bled  in  Slovenia  

The town of Bled is located on the lake of the same name and offers  travellers  who are up for an active adventure a wealth of opportunity.  If you prefer a water-based activity, rafting, canoeing or  a boat ride out to the island in the middle of Lake Bled might be for you.  O nce on the island, you should take the chance to climb up the 99 steps to St Mary’s Church for incredible views of the surrounding countryside. If you prefer to stay on dry land  the whole time , cycling around the lake  or heading to the nearby  Vintgar  Gorge to hike in the natural canyon are both great options.   

• On our  15-day Dubrovnik to Bled  
• On our  8-day Slovenia: Hike, Bike and Raft  

6. Take the jungle boardwalk on the Argentinian side of Iguazu Falls

Spectacular views! Image by Michelle Harvey.

Iguazu Falls straddle the border between Brazil and Argentina and while it’s worth seeing Mother Nature’s impressive work of art from both perspectives, the jungle boardwalk on the Ar gentinian side is a memorable experience. With the guidance of your local leader, take a stroll along  the  bridge walkway to the balcony of the Devil’s Throat, then keep going for about 45 minutes for views of the Two Sisters, Bosetti, Adam and Eve, Bernabe Mendez,  Mbigua  and San Martin g falls from above, before continuing on to catch them from below.  

• On our  2-day Iguazu Falls Short Break  
• On our  10-day Best of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil

7. Reconnect and unwind at Angkor in Cambodia

Peace and quiet at Angkor Wat. Image by Stephen Parry.

After the year we’ve been having, it’s safe to say most of us could use a little more  zen  in our lives, which is exactly what a visit to Cambodia’s Angkor will of fer.  Spend some time exploring the region’s most famous Hindu temple complex, Angkor Wat ,  with a  knowledgeable  local guide  who will share  stories of ancient  civilisations  and god-kings ,   before heading  further afield  to see some of the other 1000 or so temples in the area.  And don’t discount the tranquility that a few moments of quiet c ontemplation over a stunning sunrise with a view of Angkor Wat can bring to your day…  

• On our  3-day Cambodia’s Secrets of Angkor  
• On our 12-day Cambodia Adventure

8. Discover the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia

It may sound like a cliché, but there’s truly something otherworldly about Salar de Uyuni, the world’s biggest  salt lake . In the dry season, the  limitless , cracked la ndscape feels like a desert on another planet – one where you can even walk  out to the  cactus-filled lake islands. And in the wet season, it’s transformed into a vast mirror   with no horizon. Keep an eye out for flamingos and make sure your phone or camera are fully charged – the photo opportunities are as endless as the landscape  appears to be .   

• On our  11-day Bolivia Highlights  
• On our  15-day Best of Bolivia & Argentina

9. Challenge yourself to Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit

Up in the mountains. Image by Matt Cherubino.

While  she  might not be as famous as her eastern  neighbour , Everest ,  Annapurna’s  trekking trails offer beauty and  adventure in spades.  Completing  the  Circuit  takes 11 trekking days  (plus a few days at either end for altitude  acclimitisation  and recovery) , and you’ll  hit altitudes of almost 5500 m (18,044 ft) at the peak. But, aside from the challenge of the hike, you’ll be treated to views of flame-red rhododendron forests , towering oaks  and ice-covered alpine rivers, as well as the interactions with the friendly villagers you encounter along the way.   

• On our  15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek  
• On our  30-day Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek  

So, where to first?  Find your perfect future adventure.  

Hero image by Stephen Parry.

Feeling inspired?

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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Lonely Planet’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024

Wanderlust is here, and it’s not going anywhere. 64% of global travelers say they’ll reduce other areas of their personal spending to prioritize trips in 2024. If you’re still searching for a fantastic vacation spot for next year, stop looking. 

Lonely Planet’s Picks

Lonely Planet’s vast network of local travel experts, writers, and publishing partners named the most sought-after destinations of 2024 across five key categories. Each category features ten destinations chosen for their topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor, and ongoing commitment to sustainability and community. 

So, What Places Are On The List?

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 includes new takes on popular destinations such as Tuscany, Italy, and Mexico. It also unearths some lesser-known gems like Uzbekistan, Donegal, Ireland, and Izmir.

Slow Travel, a favorite topic with Lonely Planet readers, is celebrated by highlighting the Camino Portuguese hiking trail and the continued rise of night trains in Europe. Also shortlisted is Kangaroo Island, which remains one of South Australia’s great ecotourism destinations. 

What’s The Top Country to Visit in 2024?

Mongolia, which has been named the top country, is recognized for its wide-open spaces, adventure activities, and distinctive culinary and musical culture, reflecting its location between Russia and China. 

What Other Countries Did They Pick?

Get your passport ready! The list includes North America’s Mexico and stunning St. Lucia and Africa’s Benin and Morocco. It also highlights India, Chile, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and The Balkan’s Croatia.

What’s Their Top City?

The top city, Nairobi, Kenya,   was chosen for its unique rhythms, an impressive array of locally-inspired restaurants, and a steady rotation of arts and culture venues.  

What Other Urban Destinations Made the Cut?

Far-flung destinations like Manaus, Brazil, and  Jakarta, Indonesia, made their cut.   Europe’s Paris and Prague, as well as Bosnia’s Mostar and Turkey’s Izmir, are highly recommended for 2024.  For those who want to stay closer to home, check out all that Montreal, Philly, and Kansas City has to offer (besides Taylor Swift appearances).

What Regions Are Ripe for 2024 Exploration?

The Western Balkans’ Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, an eight-country route that prioritizes the discovery of Unesco sites, national parks, and villages, takes the top region spot. If you can work remotely, why not book a more extended stay and explore the whole region? 

More Hand-Picked Regions

Europe has always been a big draw, and this 2024 ‘Best of’ list includes Tuscany, Italy Donegal, Ireland, País Vasco, Spain, Saalfelden Leogang, Austria and Far North Scotland. 

Or take a look at Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Tanzania,   Southern Thailand, or East Africa’s Swahili Coast, Tanzania. 

Long beloved among nature lovers, perhaps 2024 is the time to book a domestic trip to stunning Montana. 

Sustainable Tourism Winners

With its efforts to boost off-season travel, expand renewable energy, and bring tourism to previously overlooked destinations, Spain is recognized as the top sustainable travel destination.

Who Else Is Keeping Nature in Mind?

For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of life, book a trip to:

• Patagonia of Argentina & Chile
• Wales’ trails
• The Portuguese Way / Caminho Português de Santiago,
• Palau, Micronesia
• Hokkaido, Japan
• Baltic Trails of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
• Eco-lodges in South Africa

What Destinations Give Travelers The Best Bang For Their Buck?

The Midwest, one of the USA’s most underrated regions with bustling cities and incredible food scenes, takes first prize in the best value category. 

Take Cincinnati, For Example

Cincinnati is the largest metro area in Ohio and Kentucky, and its central Midwest location is within one day’s drive for half of all Americans.  Its airport offers 50 or more non-flights on 11 airlines with the lowest airfares in the region. 

It’s racked up awards such as the 9th Best Metro Area to Visit in Summer and One of the Top Places to Visit in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure magazine. But unlike some of the other destinations on those ‘Best Of’ lists, Cincy is a fraction of the price of other U.S. cities and has all the things to do for a big city vacation. 

More Big Value Places

You can still have a big adventure on a smaller budget in:

• Danube Limes
• Normandy, France
• Europe’s Night Trains
• Ikaria, Greece
• Southern Lakes & Central Otago, New Zealand

Looking for Authentic Experiences Around the World?

“Our picks for this year’s Best in Travel seek to both inspire and follow the instincts of today’s traveler. It is the pinnacle of Lonely Planet’s travel inspiration, embodying the essence of authentic and sustainable exploration. It caters to the desires of travelers who yearn for genuine experiences, guided by local expertise,” said Nitya Chambers, SVP of Content and Executive Editor of Lonely Planet . 

“To celebrate 50 years of travel, we’re offering a window into the sights, cultures, and communities of 50 incredible destinations, each a representation of where the future of travel (and Lonely Planet) is headed in years to come.” 

Got a Traveler On Your Holiday Gift List?

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, a special edition of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel returns to its best-selling print format, in addition to its popular digital and social media content, offering an expanded list of 50 must-visit destinations from all around the globe—a perfect gift for travel lovers in your life. 

Here’s The Safest Places to Travel In the World

International travel is booming. One-third of Americans said they are more interested in vacationing outside the U.S. But when news reports show U.S. State Department warnings about travel to certain countries, violence in some international destinations, or individual travel horror stories, it can put your dreams of exploring the world on the back burner.

Well, get your passport back out. Here are the safest countries and cities around the world for you to explore without worry.

Here’s The Safest Places to Travel

Travelers Beware: The 8 Most Common Travel Scams Around The World

A shocking 52% of Americans surveyed by Scams.info have either lost money to travel scams or know someone who has, with the average amount lost totaling $380. So keep your money in your pocket by preparing to face these most common scams targeting tourists around the world.

10 Surprising U.S. States That Wowed Travelers

While Hawaii, Orlando, Myrtle Beach, Las Vegas, and other popular vacation destinations seem to get tons of attention and visitors, there are 50 glorious states to explore across America. Travelers are experiencing more of them, and here’s what they said.

Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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Lonely Planet Ultimate Australia Travel List Hardcover – June 14, 2022

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What's the #1 travel experience in Australia?

For the first time, the team at Lonely Planet and its panel of industry experts have ranked the top 500 unmissable experiences and hidden gems across the land – to create this definitive travel wishlist. 

Lonely Planet's Ultimate Australia Travel List is the regional follow-up to the bestselling Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List and a must-own coffee table book for both travellers to Australia and residents who want to discover their country’s most iconic sights and activities. Learn about Indigenous culture and traditions, savour local flavours at world renowned eateries, have ethical interactions with native wildlife, swim in turquoise waters at picture-perfect beaches, and explore the breathtaking beauty of natural landscapes. 

With glorious photos, insightful commentary and details of how to visit each place, this is your essential guide to exploring the very best of Australia’s travel experiences. 

• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Lonely Planet
• Publication date June 14, 2022
• Dimensions 9.4 x 1 x 10.9 inches
• ISBN-10 1838695079
• ISBN-13 978-1838695071
• See all details

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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet (June 14, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1838695079
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1838695071
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5 big travel lessons and one ‘mistake’ from 50 years of Lonely Planet

Tony Wheeler has spent half a century traversing the globe but still carries a guidebook. Naturally, it’s his own.

“Just a couple days ago in Brazil, I went to Iguazu Falls,” Wheeler, 76, said during a recent video call from a hotel guest room in New York City . “I went across to Argentina and had the Lonely Planet guidebook. It said to take the walk close to the river level because everybody heads to the top one. You know, the guidebook got it right.”

Wheeler and his wife, Maureen, founded Lonely Planet guidebooks 50 years ago. In 1972, the newly married couple bought a ratty old car in London and drove east, across Europe, and then farther east, to Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan, where they sold their vehicle. In Australia, their final stop, one adventure ended and another began.

Their first publication, “Across Asia on the Cheap,” spawned more than 150 million guidebooks covering 221 countries. It also heralded a new generation of travelers who were young, adventurous and scrappy. Like true rebels, they ventured where few parents had gone before.

“These were books for people in their 20s with no money,” he said. “If their parents had gone to Europe, they were going to Asia. If they were in Europe, they were going down to Spain and across to Morocco. Instead of escaping the States to Mexico, they’d go down to South America. Their horizons were getting larger, wider.”

In 2011, the Wheelers, who split their time between London and Melbourne, Australia, sold their publishing company. Red Ventures, which also owns the Points Guy , took over in 2020. Although they are no longer actively involved in the series and have upgraded their travel style, they still embody the spirit of the “ backpacker’s bible.”

The day after Tony returned from South America, he shared some of the lessons he has learned from his 50 spins around the Lonely Planet.

1. Always carry on

Mishaps happen to even the most seasoned traveler, and you just have to roll with it.

During his recent trip in Brazil, the airline repeatedly canceled his flight to New York. He spent four hours standing in line at the airport counter trying to sort it out. “You can fly across the Atlantic in the Concorde in that amount of time and have a meal, as well,” he said dryly.

Also this year, an incident in France forced the railway to shut down its entire line. Then a torrential rainstorm hit. “I was standing around on a platform with rain pouring down for four hours,” he said.

Wheeler gamely acknowledged that a traveler’s best material often comes from plans that went awry.

“People like to hear the bad stuff,” he said. “No one wants to hear that my flight left on time, my seat was the one I wanted, I liked the meal and my baggage turned up.”

Speaking of lost luggage, he avoids it by limiting himself to carry-on . He said an opera singer friend would have significantly reduced her stress level had she followed suit. On her flight from Munich to his London home, the airline lost her bags. Several days later, a delivery man drove up in a vehicle packed with hundreds of pieces of luggage waiting to be reunited with their owners.

2. Travel for the people, not the politics

Of all the travel guides, Wheeler said Burma caused them the most angst. At the time, people were urged to boycott the country to avoid indirectly aiding the brutal military regime. After several research trips, the couple decided to publish the book in 1979, but encouraged travelers to support local businesses and not government-owned ones.

“The locals really wanted the tourists, and it wasn’t just for the money,” Wheeler said. “It was for the communication with the outside world.”

Wheeler is similarly conflicted by Iran. “The government’s awful, but the people are wonderful,” he said. To illustrate this point, he described the heartwarming interactions he repeatedly experienced in restaurants. Diners would notice that he was eating alone and spoke English and would invite him to join them at their table.

“How often does that happen in a restaurant in England or America?” he said. “In Iran, that does happen and I think it’s kind of amazing.”

The eighth edition of “Lonely Planet Iran” is scheduled for released next December, an update to the 2017 version.

3. Trust your research and instincts

On the subject of crime, Wheeler has been fortunate: He has been a victim only once, when he was mugged in Bogotá, Colombia. He said travelers should thoroughly research a destination but also trust their instincts.

“Things are not always as unsafe as you fear they are,” he said. “Once you get to a place and are out in the streets, you will feel if it is okay or not.”

On a family trip in Guatemala City, the Wheelers set out at night in search of food. The streets were empty and unnerving. But the next morning, they discovered an entirely different city — vibrant, lively, safe.

Wheeler has ventured to more than 170 countries, including many that have faced conflict, such as Syria, Libya and Yemen. He does not take safety lightly. He is intrigued by Nigeria — “It’s the center for movies in Africa and has a lot of entrepreneurial activity ” — but is cautious about visiting Africa’s most populous nation because of safety concerns. Many foreign offices, including the State Department, advise travelers against visiting Nigeria.

“You start with the idea that it’s not going to be totally safe,” he said, “but I’d like to see it one day.”

4. Explore ‘two streets over’ from main drag

For countless travelers, Lonely Planet opened the door to unknown or undiscovered places, but some critics say the books worked too well and have led to overcrowding. Wheeler’s solution to overtourism is actually a Lonely Planet tenet. He recommends always going “two streets over” from the main drag for sightseeing as well as shopping, dining and lodging.

“Everyone is in St. Mark’s Square,” he said of Venice. “There are other parts of the city you can go to and find churches that are not crowded with tourists.”

Another option: Skip the popular destination for a lesser-visited city, such as Ravenna, which he described as the opposite of Venice. “It almost felt like it was undertouristed,” he said.

5. Choose a train over plane

This year, Wheeler has traveled by train in a dozen countries. He said his best train experience was on Amtrak ’s Coast Starlight train from Seattle to San Francisco.

“It was a nice train, and there was quite a lot of conversation at the tables in the bar,” he said. “It was what train travel is supposed to be.”

When possible, he chooses more eco-friendly modes of travel. For a return trip from Lugano, Switzerland, he took the slower but greener route home: train from Zurich to Paris, then Eurostar to London. In Uruguay and Paraguay, he relied on trains and buses, which have vastly improved since his last overland adventures.

“My bus travel years in South America was a long time ago,” he said. “It felt dangerous all the time, the buses were uncomfortable and the bus stations were not good places to be.”

This time around, the bus station in Montevideo, Uruguay, was modern and had a great breakfast spot. The buses were comfortable and safe. The seats came with belts that people actually wore. There was a toilet onboard.

“It was definitely a real change from 40 years ago,” he said.

6. ‘A 50-year mistake’

The company’s name did not stem from a romantic notion about connecting travelers or making the world a less forlorn place, but instead from a 1971 documentary film called “Mad Dogs and Englishmen.”

Over too much red wine at a Chilean restaurant in Sydney, the Wheelers discussed the film’s song “Space Captain” and the opening lines sung by Joe Cocker: “Once I was traveling across the sky; this lovely planet caught my eye.”

Smitten with the lyrics, Tony suggested calling the series, “Lonely Planet.” Maureen agreed, but pointed out the misheard word. “It’s been a 50-year mistake,” he said.

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Ultimate Australia Travel List

Get this book for free by becoming a Lonely Planet Insider:

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$2.99 USD/month (charged annually) Learn more

Lonely Planet's Ultimate Australia Travel List  is the regional follow-up to the bestselling  Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List  and a must-own coffee table book for both travellers to Australia and residents who want to discover their country’s most iconic sights and activities. Learn about Indigenous culture and traditions, savour local flavours at world renowned eateries, have ethical interactions with native wildlife, swim in turquoise waters at picture-perfect beaches, and explore the breathtaking beauty of natural landscapes.

ISBN: 9781838695071

Edition: 1st

Publication Date: April 2022  

Writers: Lonely Planet

320 pages, 320pp color | Dimensions: 237mm × 275mm

Next edition due: Not yet determined

Money latest: McDonald's to start selling bigger burgers - as it makes very rare changes to classic items

The fast food giant has revealed its chefs have created a "larger, satiating burger" in a bid to boost sales. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 20:00, UK

• Bitcoin suffers nightmare month - and it's just got worse
• Key dates for Spotify customers, energy bills, free childcare and interest rates in May
• Wait for interest rate cut leads to surprise dip in house price growth
• McDonald's to start selling a bigger burger

Essential reads

• You're probably washing and storing your clothes wrong. Here's what you should do instead
• Turns out supermarket boss was right about self-checkouts
• State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'
• One of UK's top chefs reveals best Cheap Eats in Norfolk - and cling film tip for amazing veg
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Ask a question or make a comment

Are you struggling because of high interest rates? Sky News is keen to hear from people who are due to refix their mortgages this year or are on a variable rate or tracker mortgage or trying to get on the housing ladder. 

Email us your stories at  [email protected]  - or WhatsApp us  here .

The Fed has issued its latest policy statement, announcing it will keep interest rates at the same level. 

It did note inflation has eased over the past year, and it is still leaning towards eventual reductions in borrowing costs. 

However it pointed out recent disappointing inflation readings, suggesting moves towards more balance in the economy had stalled. 

If you're wondering why we're telling you this, it's because there is a link between the Fed's interest rate and the Bank of England's base rate. 

The interplay between the two can affect the value of the pound and currency alternatives such a gold.

Market expectations for the UK base rate are often heavily influenced by what's going on in the US. 

Untreated sewage was released into designated shellfish waters for 192,000 hours last year, new research has found.

The hours of sewage dumping were spread across 23,000 separate incidents.

Some fishing waters in Cornwall were forced to close last year after high levels of e.coli were found in oysters and mussels, and norovirus can also be transported via human waste.

Read the full story here ...

Shares in luxury carmaker Aston Martin have plummeted as much as 14% today after it announced bigger than expected losses. 

Aston Martin revealed adjusted pre-tax losses of £111m for the first three months of the year, compared with £57m a year earlier. 

Analysts had expected a loss of £93m. 

The losses were due to higher finance costs and the timings of its car launches.

B&Q is introducing plastic plant pot recycling stations at more than 100 of its stores across the UK. 

Customers will be able to drop off their unwanted pots in store so they can be recycled and turned into new planters. 

B&Q's 100% recycled plastic Blacksmith Planters will be available in stores for £4. 

UK supermarkets could soon see a "healthier" version of white bread, according to scientists.

A team of researchers at Aberystwyth University will be studying the milling and blending process for white flour.

Peas, beans and oats could be added to wheat flour to boost its nutritional value.

The research project has been funded by Innovate UK, the UK's national innovation agency.

Parents taking their kids to Taylor Swift concerts this summer might be worried their lack of knowledge will leave them feeling a bit left out.

But what if we told you you could be a mastermind?

That's the promise of a new college course ahead of the biggest pop star in the world hitting the UK in June.

The 7 May course, which is run by the  Glasgow Cylde College and is free, will give members of the public a jam-packed session that will leave them ready for the singer's upcoming  Eras Tour.

Those who enrol in a one-off college masterclass will learn about the pop star's music, set lists, crowd chants and even her "evolving wardrobe and hairstyles".

A statement on the college website reads: "Ahead of her hugely anticipated arrival, Glasgow Clyde College is offering a one time-only masterclass aimed at preparing parents and plus ones of Taylor superfans, providing the full Love Story on all things Eras Tour to help them have the best night of their lives.

"From set lists and crowd chants to need-to-know information on each Era, the masterclass, which is being delivered by a Taylor Swift expert, will give people a whistle-stop lesson that'll leave them ready for the gig."

You can book your Swiftie masterclass here .

The cocoa market is in a particularly turbulent period, with the price of the ingredient falling to its lowest level in a month. 

It comes after prices reached their highest peaks in more than four decades earlier in the year, making it reportedly more expensive than copper. 

Traders had been betting on an acute supply shortage driven by poor harvests in West Africa. 

However, the rally made it more expensive to maintain positions and prompted traders to pull out of the market - leaving the product vulnerable to big price swings. 

The price has now fallen by 16% since the end of last week, offering some relief to chocolate makers/eaters.

The fast food giant has revealed its chefs have created a "larger, satiating burger" in a bid to boost sales, according to Bloomberg. 

The mega-sized burger is reportedly designed to attract customers who want more filling patties. 

It will be introduced in certain markets first to test its appeal. 

McDonald's unveiled plans in December that bosses hope will boost growth by focusing on core menu items. 

The chain has seen sluggish sales, partly due to its perceived support of Israel in Middle East and Muslim-majority markets. 

McDonald's has denied taking any position in the ongoing conflict and said it is not responsible for the actions of its franchisees.

So far, it has launched an ad campaign highlighting what it says are improvements to its Big Mac, quarter pounder with cheese and double cheeseburger.

This is apparently the first time in the company's 84-year history that it has made changes to its classic burgers.

By Emily Mee , Money team

Discovering a hole in your favourite pair of jeans or a rip in your well-worn cosy jumper is certainly irritating - but it doesn't mean those items are destined for the bin. 

In fact, ethical fashion campaigners say that's the last place your items should be going. There is usually plenty you can do to repair them - or even to avoid damage in the first place. That way, you can keep your best-loved pieces in your wardrobe for years to come. 

Katrina Caspelich, from fair fashion campaign Remake, takes the Money blog through what you can do...

Store your clothes better

Clean them before storing them: Always ensure that clothes are clean before storing them. Launder or dry clean them according to the care instructions on the label. Stains and dirt can attract insects and cause fabric deterioration over time.

Use breathable storage containers: Opt for breathable storage containers such as cotton canvas bags or boxes instead of plastic bins. This allows air circulation and prevents moisture build up, which can lead to mould and mildew.

Avoid direct sunlight: Store clothes in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause colours to fade and weaken fabric fibres over time.

Hang clothes properly: Invest in quality hangers that provide adequate support to garments. Use padded or wooden hangers for delicate items like suits, dresses and knits. Avoid using wire hangers, as they can cause garments to lose their shape. Don't hang wet clothes on hangers - they can stretch.

Use garment bags: For long-term storage of formal wear or seasonal clothing, consider using garment bags to protect items from dust, insects, and moisture.

Rotate clothing: Rotate your wardrobe seasonally to prevent garments from being stored for too long without use. This helps to prevent fabric deterioration and ensures that all pieces are worn regularly.

Avoid overcrowding: Avoid cramming clothes into storage containers or closets. Overcrowding can cause wrinkles, stretching and distortion of fabric fibres. Leave some space between garments to allow for air circulation.

Store leather items properly: Leather garments should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use padded hangers to maintain their shape and avoid folding, as creases can become permanent.

Does how you wash clothes make a difference?

What exactly makes a gentle wash gentle? For delicate fabrics, you should always use cool to lukewarm water. (Hot water isn't needed unless you are concerned about bacteria and diseases like COVID-19). 

Pro tip: Be wary of wringing out your wet clothes. It can seriously alter the shape of your garments.

Other options

Wash your stuff less. The only clothes that should always be washed after one wear are underwear and sweaty clothes. Most garments worn regularly should be okay to wear two to three times before washing. Unless your denim has a bad habit of stretching out, experts say you should wash them after three or four wears so they age better. You can also throw them in the freezer to kill bacteria.

Spot clean your clothes. To clean a spot, start by removing any excess spillage and blot away as much moisture as possible with a paper towel or hand towel. NO RUBBING. Use some stain remover or gentle detergent on just the stained spot. Let it air dry or use cool air to speed up the process.

Air dry. Hang your clothes outside, Italian style. For heavier items that could stretch when hanging, lay them out flat on a surface to dry.

When should you dry clean?

Read the care tags! Don't be so quick to adhere to every garment's dry clean only tag - there's lots of chemicals involved that lurk on dry-cleaned wool, cotton and polyester. Plus, lots of brands put those tags on when they lack confidence in our ability to properly and gently wash our clothes.

If it is made of wool, linen, silk, cotton or cashmere - which is likely a majority of your closet - these fabrications can handle gentle hand washes so long as you pre-treat and single wash anything with stains, as well as wash items in groups determined by fabrication and colour.

If you aren't 100% sure what exactly a garment is made of, you can always test a little spot under the sink water to see if you get a ton of colour bleeding, warping or shrinkage before going all in.

If your garment has any fancy embellishments, flocking or beads attached by glue then you should probably take it to the cleaners if it's not just in need of a little spot clean.

Pro tip: When you find yourself at the dry cleaners, you can try asking for alternatives like a liquid carbon dioxide cleaning, which uses pressurized CO2 mixed with other gentle cleaning liquids as opposed to perc.  Another option is requesting a wet cleaning method , a wash that resembles a normal washing machine but utilises special soaps and conditioners for an extra gentle wash.

How do you know when a broken item is repairable, or when it's no longer usable?

It's important to always assess the extent of the damage. Small tears, missing buttons, loose hems or minor stains are usually repairable with basic sewing skills or by taking them to a tailor. 

Considering the condition of the fabric is also important. For example, if the fabric is in good shape apart from the damaged area, it may be worth repairing. 

However, if the fabric is severely worn out or faded in multiple places, it may not be worth repairing. Also, some types of damage such as large holes, extensive fraying or irreparable stains may render the garment unusable or not cost-effective to repair. 

Finally, it's important to consider the sentimental value of the item. If the piece holds sentimental value or is a high-quality piece, you may just want to hold on to it and invest in repairs.

If the item is no longer usable, you could upcycle or repurpose it. Get creative and turn the item into something new. Some ideas include turning old jeans into shorts, using fabric scraps for quilting or crafts, or transforming a worn-out tee into a cleaning rag. 

Donation is another option. If the clothing item is still in decent condition despite the damage, consider donating it to a local charity or thrift store as some organisations accept damaged clothing for recycling or repurposing.

Finally, look for textile recycling programmes in your area. Many communities have textile recycling centres or programmes that accept old clothing, even if it's damaged, to be recycled into new textiles or other products.

How about shoes?

Like clothing, extending the wear of your shoes requires proper care and maintenance. Some ideas include rotating your shoes between different pairs of shoes every day to allow each pair to air out and recover their shape between wears. 

Clean your shoes regularly to remove dust, dirt and stains. 

It's also a good idea to apply waterproofing spray to protect your shoes from water, stains, snow and other environmental damage. Like clothing, it's important to attend to any signs of damage or wear as soon as possible, replacing worn-out soles, repairing loose stitching, and fixing damaged heels to prevent further deterioration. Definitely consider taking your shoes to a professional cobbler for these regular repairs! 

By Connor Sephton , news reporter

Bitcoin has suffered its biggest monthly loss since June 2022 - amid signs that market euphoria is starting to cool.

The world's biggest cryptocurrency saw its price plunge by almost 15% in April.

Even though we're just 12 hours into a brand-new month, Bitcoin is continuing to fall further.

This digital asset is often valued in dollars rather than pounds - and certain price points tend to have psychological significance for traders.

Over the past few weeks, Bitcoin had successfully managed to avoid a big fall under $60,000 (about £48,000).

But all of that changed in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

After the $60,000 threshold crumbled, a sharp drop to $57,000 soon followed.

So... with Bitcoin down 7% over the past 24 hours, what happens next?

Well - traders are now engaged in what can best be described as an arm wrestle.

If Bitcoin manages to hold stable around $57,000, its value may start to recover.

But if selling pressure grows as American investors start to wake up and see what's happened, further declines are to be expected.

Bitcoin has now fallen by 22% since hitting an all-time high of $73,750 in March - which technically puts this cryptocurrency in a bear market.

However, avid enthusiasts will insist this is nothing more than a healthy correction, and Bitcoin's longer-term prospects are good.

One thing is clear: this is a volatile asset, and investors should only put in whatever they can afford to lose.

In what seems to be becoming a daily occurrence, four more lenders have announced mortgage rate rises.

Halifax, BM Solutions and Virgin are all doing so for the second time in around a week. They're joined by Nottingham Building Society.

Halifax are increasing rates on purchase products by up to 0.2%; BM Solutions by up to 0.24%. These begin tomorrow.

Virgin increased rates on products between 0.08% and 0.2% yesterday evening, while Nottingham has lifted rates this morning by up to 0.25%.

Mortgage rates have spiked in the last two weeks as financial markets have moved from pricing in a base rate cut in June to thinking it will come in August. Expectations of three cuts this year are now two.

The backdrop is sticky inflation in the US - and concern the global and domestic battle against rising prices isn't over yet.

Skipton had actually announced some decreases - but any optimism from this proved momentary.

Dariusz Karpowicz, director at Albion Financial Advice, told Newspage: "The atmosphere in the mortgage market is rather grim, with major players like Halifax, BM Solutions, Virgin and Nottingham Building Society repeatedly raising their fixed rates.

"This pattern of frequent rate hikes, sometimes occurring multiple times within a week, is casting a shadow over market sentiment. 

"The anticipated 'spring bounce' is nowhere in sight; instead, we're witnessing a continuation of mortgage woes. 

"Higher rates are expected to dampen buyer enthusiasm and potentially delay any positive momentum. 

"As for when borrowers can expect relief, it hinges on broader economic stabilisation. For now, the outlook remains cautious and subdued."

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