Aruba, referred to as “One Happy Island” due to its 300 days of sunshine, friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, is home to more than 40 miles of coastline, graceful flamingos gallivanting around its shores and more than 95 recorded nationalities. With an array of pristine beaches to enjoy, the island is also home to an …
2022
How can I increase my chances of seeing the northern lights on a trip to the Arctic?
Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answer a lot of travel questions, providing tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. We thought this question would be perfect for LP author Kerry Walker, who’s long been obsessed with cold, remote places, snow and the northern lights. Question: We are planning a winter …
The Lonely Planet guide to the Art Institute of Chicago
The USA’s second-largest art museum, the Art Institute of Chicago houses a treasure trove from around the globe. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings is second only to those in France, and the number of surrealist works is tremendous. The Modern Wing dazzles with Picassos and Mirós, …
9 things you need to know before visiting beautiful and quirky Anchorage
In recent years, an increase in new arrivals has transformed Anchorage from a small town into a big city. In fact, Anchorage – the largest city in Alaska – now accounts for 40 percent of the state’s total population, but that doesn’t mean the city has lost its unique charm. For locals, a quick errand …
10 of the best things to do in Óbidos
Óbidos is like its signature ginjinha (cherry liqueur): a sweet chocolate-clad treat with a cherry on top. Wrapped in crenelated walls, the well-preserved hilltop medieval village is a storybook tangle of azure- and canary-hemmed whitewashed homes, churches and monuments. It’s one of Portugal’s prettiest and most popular destinations, with many travelers taking the brisk one-hour …
Lonely Planet staffers pick their favorite travel photos of 2024
Lonely Planet has been traveling the world for 50 years and counting. And in an era of chatbots and AI-generated images, we continue to rely on real people and experts who taste, smell and see the world – then report the best of it back to us. To create our books and website, we work …
10 of the best things to do in Portugal
It may be small but Portugal boasts diverse cultures, a rich and varied cuisine and incredible landscapes that range from the rugged coast in the west to a mountainous inland. Ancient Roman, Celtic and Islamic influences have shaped the customs and language of this land, which has officially been a country for more than 870 years (it’s one …
Your guide to hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc
If you’ve got one European long-distance hike on your bucket list, it’s probably the Tour du Mont Blanc. It was on mine, too. Views over sparkling glaciers, Alpine prairies and lots (and lots!) of cheese await anyone who embarks on this border-crossing trek. Circling the largest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc, the trail covers …
Discover Nevada’s history on this epic road trip
Nevada’s highways are a tapestry of history, natural beauty, and offbeat attractions. Where else can you see ancient petroglyphs, wind- and water-carved landscapes, and UFO-themed attractions on the same day? In just over a week, you can visit practically every side of America’s seventh-largest state. Your schedule will be packed with amazing landscapes, rich history, …
The best times to visit Oman for roses, camel races and more
Oman is chock full of adventurous activities to enjoy during the “winter” months and calm beaches where you can cool off during the scorching-hot summer months. The best time to visit this desert country is typically from October through March, when the weather is close to perfect for activities including hiking and camping at the …