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Machu Picchu, Peru. Photo ©️ Samosir Books Your journey to Machu Picchu starts in beautiful Cusco, a city high up in Peru's Andes and once the capital of the  Inca Empire. On the outskirts of Cusco, first catch a bus through the Sacred Valley to Pisac and then to Ollantaytambo. From there you can connect with a Peru-Rail train to the mountain town of Aguas Calientes. Here is the gateway to Machu Picchu; one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Thirty-five kilometres from Cusco, you'll arrive in Pisac, and explore the fascinating Archaeological Park, with its religious structures, terraces and a ceremonial area with spectacular valley views. After you shop-till-you-drop at the buzzing Pisac market, full of  handmade crafts and textiles made by local artisans, you will travel further through the Scared Valley to the nearby town of Ollantaytambo. Enjoy the lovely little plaza here that is surrounded by rocky cliffs, and it's the perfect place to sit and watch ...

E10 Highway, Lofoten Islands, Norway. Photo © Samosir books Plan the ultimate Norway road trip for 2024, with an adventure touring the stunning E10 Highway that stretches from Luleå in Sweden to Å on the Lofoten Islands. Few places in the world are more naturally spectacular and unspoiled than The Lofoten Islands in northeast Norway. Brightly painted wooden fishing villages, dramatic rocky mountain peaks and a strong connection to the ocean, will have you wishing you never had to return to the 9-5. Jagged mountains of Lofoten, Norway. Photo © Samosir Books  Lofoten's jagged mountains jut out of Norway's Arctic Coast, attracting visitors from all over the world with breathtaking scenery and charming harbor towns. A tradition for a thousand years, cod caught here are dried out on massive racks across the islands, making it a major winter breeding ground for fish. Free road bridges and tunnels connect the islands along the E10 Highway, allowing camper vans, cars and motorcycles ...

The Raven Brothers launch their 'NO RUSH' photography exhibitiion. A project finally complete after two decades. Here in the ETG office, we are excited to interview The Raven Brothers about their new quirky photography exhibition that is touring India at the moment.  by Emily Kemble, ETG content writer. Firstly, I would like to ask you both, do you prefer writing about your travels or photographing them? Chris: In many ways, writing and photography are connected, so I enjoy them both. There is a natural flow between the two.  Simon: When we're on a journey for a new book or short story, photography is vital for making notes. It enables us to examine in greater detail what was around us at the time. It also makes capturing those iconic moments more possible, because the cameras are never far away from our reach. As a keen photographer myself, I really want to ask you both how you got into travel photography? Chris: Ever since the day my parents bought me a camera for ...

photo Samosir Books  Copenhagen conveys a certain Scandinavian charm. It's a city with a maze of canals, old buildings, and fusion of contemporary and traditional design elements. Hire a bike and, as Copenhagen is renowned for being one of the bike-friendliest cities in the world, choose pedal power!  Free things to do in Copenhagen. Stroll in Nyhavn: Admire the lively waterfront of Nyhavn, which is surrounded by historic structures, cafes, and boats. Visit the Little Mermaid: See the iconic statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale at Langelinie Pier. Copenhagen's Parks:  Relax in parks like King's Garden (Kongens Have) or Ørstedsparken. Free Walking Tours:  Join a free walking tour to learn about the city's history and culture. Explore Freetown Christiania: Explore this distinct, independent neighborhood with lively street art and a laid-back vibe. Copenhagen Street Food Market: Enjoy a wide range of culinary delights at Reffen, an outdoor street...

ETG Destinations of the month: Italy, Colombia, Albania and Morocco. Discover more with lonelyplanet.com

Salona (Solin) photo © Samosir Books  Are you a culture vulture and adore ancient history like its the best thing since slice bread? Well, get ready to bounce off the walls when you see this list of Croatia's ancient ruins that offer a window into the country's rich history and cultural heritage.  Diocletian's Palace (Split): A well-preserved Roman palace complex built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. Brijuni Islands:  Archaeological sites dating back to Roman and Byzantine times. Pula Arena (Pula): An ancient Roman amphitheater, one of the best-preserved in the world. Salona (Solin): Ancient ruins of a Roman city, including a forum, amphitheater, and various basilicas. Euphrasian Basilica (Poreč): A UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring early Christian mosaics. Narona Archaeological Museum (Vid): Houses artifacts from the Roman temple dedicated to the emperor Augustus. Osor Archaeological Collection (Osor): Exhibits artifacts from the ancient town of Osor.

photo © Samosir Books  Cádiz is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, and was the site where the Spanish Constitution of 1812 was proclaimed. This port brimming with history also has beaches and a lively Carnival, one of the most famous in Spain. Check out these fun things to do in Cádiz.  Explore the Old Town: Explore the Old Town of Cádiz, a historic area with quaint squares, churches, and gorgeous buildings lining the narrow streets. Visit the Cathedral of Cádiz: Admire the stunning example of Neoclassical and Baroque architecture that is the Cádiz Cathedral. Don't miss the wide-ranging views from the tower. Relax on La Victoria Beach: At La Victoria Beach, a popular beach in Cádiz with golden sand and a lively vibe, enjoy the sun and ocean. Discover Castillo de San Sebastian: Go to Castillo de San Sebastian, a small island, to see the fortress. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Check out Playa de la Caleta: See the p...

Family camping trips in France and Italy in the 1980s, gave The Raven Brothers their first real taste of freedom for the open road. This thirst for adventure continued  and inspired them to drive from the UK to Vladivostok in Siberia at the beginning of the new millennium. BLACK SEA CIRCUIT tells the story of the brothers' quest to drive around the entire Black Sea; passing through six fascinating countries at the heart of human civilization. Chris Raven at the cave fortress of Mangup Kale, Crimea. The brothers quit their jobs in London to live an adventurous lifestyle. From the road to Damascus and the notorious Trans-Oceanic Highway in South America, the two adventurers have spent over twenty years writing, documenting and photographing all over the world, including the Balkan Peninsula, tribal India and the deep south of China. Their most recent and fifth book Hike, Drive, Stayin' Alive! is out now.  The Monument to the Defenders of Adzhimushkay Quarry. Kerch, Crimea. The ...

D uring an epic road trip driving full circle around the Black Sea, Chris Raven and Simon Raven, explore the high pasture village of Ayder in the Kackar mountains, in a region of Anatolian Turkey that is home to the Hemsin and the legend of the Laz Big foot. Turkey's Pontic Alps. The Kackar Mountains. Photo by Simon Raven Extract from the book:  BLACK SEA CIRCUIT By The Raven Brothers  Waving farewell to Georgia we enter ancient Anatolia. The land rises steeply into the lush green Pontic Alps, a mountain range that stretches parallel with the southern Black Sea coast for a thousand kilometres. Located directly south across this geological barrier is Mount Ararat on the Armenian border, and the predominantly Kurdish provinces in the southeast of the country bordering Iran, Iraq and Syria. Curious to explore these mysterious green mountains that are covered by alder, chestnuts and hornbeams, we continue west on the E70 highway to the small coastal town of Ardesen. Si turns sharp...

The friendly porteños will welcome you to their Buenos Aires; a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene, tango music and dance, and historic architecture. A mix of European and Latin American flows through the wide boulevards and stylish cafes. It's a must-see city on anyone's Argentina intinerary.  San Telmo and Palermo are fascinating districts. But which one is the best? This is a tough one, folks! Ok, so, let's check them both out. First, we'll list what to do in San Telmo.  SAN TELMO  Without doubt, exploring the historic San Telmo Market is number one. Have eyes like an eagle looking for that special gift from the renowned antique stores and handcrafted goods. Pop into a gallery, enjoy the boutiques shops. The liveliest times are on the weekends. Take in the charming Plaza Dorrego, a cobblestone square and a great place to people watch and experience the local way of life.  Be entertained by street performances, because here in San Telmo it is home to a ...

While in France, taking a bike ride through the gorgeous Bordeaux vineyards or touring the Loire Valley, home to the quaint châteaux, is surely an absolute winner.  However, in Italy, the Amalfi Coast offers breathtaking coastline routes to explore, while the Tuscany region offers jaw dropping scenery and cultural treasures. The ideal bicycle ride ultimately comes down to personal taste in terrain and surroundings. Here at ETG it is pretty much impossible to decide. Both countries are incredible for an adventure, with great food, wine, the people and so many different diverse local features (and steep hills!) Whatever you choose enjoy the environmentaly friendly buzz of pedal power.

Morocco has two energetic cities: Fez and Marrakech, each with a distinct appeal. While Fez is well-known for its traditional craftsmanship and well-preserved medieval architecture, Marrakech is famed for its bustling streets, magnificent palaces, and busy markets. To determine which city better suits your interests, think about your choices, such as whether you'd rather be in the vibrant environment of Marrakech or the authentic old district of Fez. At ETG we have chosen Fez as our favourite city, because you can completely lose yourself in the ancient medina, which is half the fun, but that's just our choice.  Both cities are incredible!  Enjoy! 

Boston! Home to Harvard and clam chowder, and lots of other unique things, too. But what about Back Bay and Downtown? Which area of the city is best to stay?  Well, Back Bay is known for its elegant shops on Newbury Street, its stunning Public Garden, and its Victorian brownstone homes within it's upscale, residential neighborhood. Or, there's downtown, the financial and business hub of the city. Personally, the thought of staying in the financial hub makes me want to spin on my heels and head straight to Back Bay. However, downtown is a very special district full of important historic landmarks with old traditional pubs and a commercial jazzy atmos. There is Faneuil Hall and the fascinating 'must do' Freedom Trail.  Whichever you choose, also remember to visit Acorn Street in Beacon Hill. Oh, and eat a lobster roll. Enjoy! 

Sometimes you just don't want to invest your time and commit to a book the size of a brick. Life gets in the way, right? Enter the short story. Short stories can express a lot of meaning and emotion in a short length of time. They are a brilliant form of storytelling.  So, let's take a look at the talented writers behind the words. Here are eight writers known for their short stories. Ernest Hemingway No introduction for this writer. Ernest Hemingway was praised for his clear and powerful prose. Stories from his collection, include "The Old Man and the Sea" and "Hills Like White Elephants". Paul Theroux Another classic writer. Paul Theroux focuses on adventure, travel, and cross-cultural interactions, with books "The Great Railway Bazaar" and "The Mosquito Coast."  His collections of short stories include, "The Consul's File," "The London Embassy," and "Fresh Air Fiend". Jack Kerouac Best known for "...

When Florida and Tanzania appear side by side, it doesn't take a travel boffin to know these countries are pretty different; especially for their natural environments. Both do have fascinating wildlife and beaches, but theme parks are definitely a Florida thing. So let's start with Florida.  Make a note of these! 1. Discover the wonder of Disney in Orlando at Walt Disney World. 2. Miami Beach: Unwind on the well-known sandy shores. 3. Everglades National Park: Fly through this amazing distinctive ecology, and spot the alligators, dolphins, manatee and black bear.  4. See Key West, the southernmost point on the United States mainland (90 miles from Cuba). 5. Universal Pictures Florida: Take in the thrills of Orlando's theme parks. 6. Discover space exploration on the Space Coast at Kennedy Space Center. 7. Naples: Enjoy fine dining and shopping along the Gulf Coast. 8. Tampa Bay Area: Discover parks, museums, and energetic neighborhoods. 9. St. Augustine: Visit the oldest ci...

Colombia! Where do we start with this gem of a country that has so much to offer? Well, here at ETG, we say a journey to Colombia will open your eyes to the pure beauty of South America.  So, let's begin! Let's start with number one and the city of Cartagena.  Cartagena's Old Town : Wander through the historic streets, visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Tayrona National Park : Discover beautiful beaches, dense jungles, and ancient ruins in this coastal national park. Coffee Triangle: Explore coffee plantations in regions like Armenia, Pereira, and Manizales to learn about Colombia's renowned coffee culture. Medellín : Experience the transformation of this city, visit Comuna 13, and take the cable car for stunning views. Bogotá : Discover the capital's cultural richness, including the Gold Museum, Botero Museum, and Monserrate Hill. Cocora Valley: Hike through this breathtaking valley with towering wax palms, Colombia's ...

Namibia and Botswana each provide distinctive experiences.  While Namibia is home to breathtaking scenery like the Namib Desert and Fish River Canyon, Botswana is renowned for its abundant wildlife in the Okavango Delta. To choose between the two, think about the kind of adventure you're looking for: stunning landscape or wildlife. At ETG we can't comment, because no one in the office (surprisingly) has been to either countries. So, you decide or do both!  Have fun! 

Do people still buy travel guides before setting off on an adventure? The answer is yes, many, but the way we use guidebooks has changed a lot over the years. In the past people would rely on their travel guide 100%, they clung onto their bible of a destination, lost in the world without useful city maps to refer to and recommended rooms. These days a lot of pre-planning begins online. We see recommendations of dream destinations to visit on Instagram and TikTok, and book rooms in advance on booking.com and Airbnb. Google maps helps us navigate the streets, and Uber and Ola often transport us around. So why would you need to carry a hefty guidebook around? The truth of the matter is, that if you really want to get to the heart of a destination, the planning and suggested routes and itineraries in travel guides such as Lonely Planet and Rough Guides are the most efficient and reliable way to get an overview and help you plan your adventure. Social media and the internet is wonderful for...

The world isn't full, there's loads of space! The problem is that we pleasure seeking humans tend to be drawn to the more famous destinations. Paris, Barcelona, Rome. Many of us have a bucket list of top places we yearn to see in our lifetime, but it is hardly an authentic experience to be rammed into a street packed full of tourists, where the locals have long fled. So, what's the solution? It would be tragic for first time travellers to be denied the great sights of Florence, but maybe to spend your entire trip jostling for space at the most famous selfie spots isn't the only option. Overland travel is the E.T.G. answer to true adventure. Travel to the major tourist hot spot of your dreams, enjoy for a few days, and then get out! Hire a car, or hop aboard a train or bus and seek out the lesser known hidden gems that will reward you with a true blood experience of the people and cultures that give life to the blue and green planet we call home. Highlighting off beat de...