Lonely Planet Travel Guidebooks

Lonely Planet is a world-renowned travel media brand that revolutionized the way people explore the globe. Founded by Tony and Maureen Wheeler in 1973 following an epic overland trip from London back to Australia, the brand began with the self-published book 'Across Asia on the Cheap.' Since then, it has grown into a massive repository of travel expertise, providing detailed guides for nearly every destination on Earth.

While originally an Australian venture, the brand's manufacturing and distribution now span the globe to meet international demand. Printing typically occurs in various regions including China, Europe, and the United States, depending on the specific market and edition. The ownership of the brand has changed hands several times in the 21st century, moving from the BBC to NC2 Media, and finally to its current parent company in the United States.

Today, Lonely Planet is a subsidiary of Red Ventures, a multi-billion dollar American media and technology company. Red Ventures has integrated Lonely Planet into its digital portfolio, focusing on expanding the brand's online presence, mobile applications, and high-quality physical guidebooks. This combination of traditional print excellence and digital innovation ensures that Lonely Planet remains a top resource for independent travelers worldwide.