Pack a sunhat and a book of José Martí’s poems and get ready to uncover the buoyant, sophisticated, beautiful magic of Cuba. Fewer restrictions on private enterprise have led to an explosion of creativity, while the culture-dampening effects of globalization have yet to dilute the local charm. Isolated but eager to advance, the country is…
San José is a busy and confusing city, and many travelers depart before they really get a feel for the place. After all, Costa Rica is famous for beaches, cloud forests and sloths, not gridlock traffic and concrete towers. Most visitors think of the Costa Rican capital as nothing but a necessary stopover. Immerse yourself…
Our slow travel series explores how you can take more mindful journeys by train, boat, bus or bike – with tips on how to reach your no-fly destination, and what to see and do along the way. Below, Lonely Planet contributing editor Brian Healy reports on the best way to see the splendor of Holland’s…
For all its tropical charms, Havana isn’t the world’s most straightforward city for travelers. A unique economic situation, top-heavy state bureaucracy and decades of isolation from its frenemy in the north (the USA) can place obstacles in the way of even simple activities. But while travel in the Cuban capital can pitch you the occasional…
Our slow travel series explores how you can take more mindful journeys by train, boat, bus or bike – with tips on how to reach your no-fly destination, and what to see and do along the way. In the latest installment, Monisha Rajesh (author of Around the World in 80 Trains) documents her rail journey…
Anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia confronts an embarrassment of riches. This magical part of the world has enough beaches, sunset spots, temples and fiery food to fill several lifetimes of travel. Yet since we only have one, tough choices lie in store. Enter a pair of seasoned writers to make the case for…
While Havana, with its grandiose architecture and vibrant culture, continues to be the number one place to visit for travelers to Cuba, taking a break from the city buzz will recharge your batteries and give you a broader scope of Cuba’s authentic experiences. Let the sea breeze pamper your senses in Playas del Este or…
Just after successfully unifying an NFL stadium full of Swifties in scream-singing the bridge to "Cruel Summer" – and slightly before launching into a strummed version of "Lover" on her teal guitar – Taylor Alison Swift paused to pose a question to the crowd in Arlington, Texas. “How many of you had to travel to…
After they have spent a day or two in Nigeria, most visitors are surprised to see that the country is so much more than its reputation for scam artists and kidnappings. Shake off that image, and your trip could turn out to be one of your most fulfilling travel experiences. The moment you step out…
There’s no better way to get a local perspective on life in Cuba than behind the wheel of a car. Even though Cuba’s roads – even the highways – can be in bad condition and signage for drivers is scarce, the open road will open your heart to an island filled with wonders. From a one-day…