Lonely Planet Your Trip Starts Here

Excellent table top book

Stunning book! Made the perfect gift!

I ordered on a whim not knowing what to expect, wondering if the title and sub title suggested something new age, but actually this is full to the brim with lots of stunning photos and chunks of information. This is not something for taking with you but rather an act of inspiration to get you travelling.I'm unsure of the pacing of the book, I was expecting more of a "journey" from cover to cover but it's almost more like an atlas of destinations to go with no particular focus at any point. A great casual book for reference when you are good enough to avoid going straight to google.

This book is not your typical travel guide, but it's a profound source of inspiration and guidance for anyone looking to embark on a transformative journey, whether it's across the globe or within oneself. The pages are filled with captivating stories, thought-provoking insights, and a genuine sense of wanderlust.The first thing that struck me was the book's beautiful layout and design. It's not just about words on a page; it's an immersive experience. The vivid photographs, quotes, and vibrant graphics enhance the content, making it a visual delight.The book's primary strength is its ability to kindle the wanderlust spirit within. It encourages you to explore not only external destinations but also the uncharted territories of your inner self. It's a reminder that every journey, regardless of its physical distance, can be a journey of self-discovery.The writing is impeccable, and the author has a way of transporting you to the various destinations described. The narrative is personal and relatable, allowing you to connect with the stories of the travelers and adventurers who've embraced the beauty of exploration.What truly sets this book apart is the emphasis on responsible travel. It promotes ethical and sustainable travel practices, encouraging readers to be conscious and respectful of the places they visit. It's a call to appreciate the world's beauty and protect it for future generations.The book provides invaluable travel insights, from planning your itinerary to packing tips, ensuring that you're fully prepared for your adventures. It's an informative resource that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the world, both near and far.In conclusion, this is not just a book; it's an invitation to embark on a journey of a lifetime. It's a reminder that every trip is a potential path to self-discovery, and that the world is a vast playground waiting to be explored. Whether you're an experienced traveler or someone new to the wonders of the world, this book is an inspiring companion for your journey.

Not quite what I expected and hard to define, so...to quote from the general blurb:📝“...YOUR TRIP STARTS HERE ~ Journeys of self-discovery: how travel helps us grow’ is the ultimate travel book for anyone longing to immerse themselves in a different culture, grow as a person or reflect and reset their focus.”From the back cover of the copy I received (image below refers):🗺️~ ‘Embark on more than 50 life-affirming journeys, from sacred pilgrimages and cultural explorations to challenge expeditions. Whether you seek greater self-knowledge, a better understanding of our world, or just time and space to reflect, this book will inspire many unique travel experiences.First-hand insights, planning advice and detailed maps will help you journey with purpose.~ Follow the Civil Rights Trail in the US and learn how activists changed the course of American history~ Pass a month making a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain~ Prepare for unpredictability and go with the flow as you raft Tasmania’s Franklin River~ Trek to the 88 temples of Shikoku, Japan, and experience enlightenment'The current stock images above give an idea of the content.ooOooA surprisingly underwhelming cover, to my eye, for this pretty hefty tome from ‘lonely planet’, that measures roughly 23.75 cm x 27.5 cm, the thick, lightly textured hardboard cover opening to 304 shiny finish pages, split over 5 REGIONS, namely:~ AMERICAS (pgs 10-85)~ EUROPE (pgs 86-163)~ ASIA (pgs164-239)~ OCEANIA (pgs 240-273)~ AFRICA & the MIDDLE EAST (pgs 274-295)THEMES (pgs 8-9) amended via a replacement sheet with my copy, irritatingly, smaller than the book:~ CULTURE~ ROAD TRIPS~ HIKES~ OFF THE BEATEN PATH~ ADVENTURE & SPORT~ PILGRIMAGES~ HISTORY~ WILDLIFE & NATURE...with an alphabetical INDEX that runs from pages 298-303, with a page of general credits winding up the book.Informative and uniform in the layout, ‘THE TRIP’ section includes a colourful map with the key stages pinpointed.‘PRACTICALITIES’, which includes ‘Where to stay’, ‘Where to eat and drink’, etc., is as you might expect, vague in physical recommendations ~ mindful that such information is as up to date as it can be at the time of publication and may be subject to change.It is undoubtedly a well produced & researched publication, with spectacular photography in places such as the eye-catching full-page + double-page spread locations identified & accredited. However, some areas are a little dull, I feel, e.g. ‘Paddle Scotland's Great Glen’ (pgs 126-131) has a more prominent shot of the token ‘Highland Coo’, than the stunning setting of ‘Urquhart Castle’ on a sunny day ~ watch out for monsters as you paddle the 60 miles!

I love the Lonely Planet series of books and this one is no exception. Absolutely fascinating and makes one want to book flights to all the places covered.Recommended for any far-flung travellers out there.

Really didnt live up to the description. A waste of paper.