From camel rides through the Arabian desert to bronzing yourself on the world-famous Palm, holidays to Dubai never disappoint. This city is an idyllic desert at its heart, on which a glorious cosmopolitan city sits atop. From Downtown Dubai where visitors marvel at the magnificent Burj Khalifa, to the private beaches there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in the so-called City of Gold. And no Dubai holiday will be complete without a spot of shopping – whether in one of the world-class air-conditioned malls or at the traditional flea markets along the Creek. It’s always best to avoid the rain-drenched monsoon season from May to September, unless you’re heading to arid Ladakh, in the far north. Benin

The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors in 2024, offering a tantalizing immersion in Egypt’s ancient treasures. What’s more, budget travelers will have more options, with the potential launch of low-cost flights from Ryanair and Air Sphinx. Unsure when to visit? October is usually a great time, as crowds thin out, temperatures remain balmy and the light provides excellent photography opportunities. Patagonia The Kent art scene is absolutely thriving, making it a truly exciting time to visit the area. Browse around independent galleries, immerse yourself in creative culture, discover inspiring local talent, and let your imagination run wild…Kent is ready and waiting to spark your creativity… Lonely Planet also singles out the National Trust’s project to turn a disused railway bridge into a High Line-style park called Castlefield Viaduct.Bev Craig, Leese’s successor, said: “When Lonely Planet says there is something for everyone here, it’s the result of long-term planning and partnership. We’re proud to be the only UK city on this list.” A Mexico visit in January or February means dry and relatively cooler days, providing some relief in humid coastal destinations. It’s also whale-watching season along the Pacific Coast. In Mazatlán, February is carnival time: the 2024 festival is the 126th edition. Kangaroo Island, Australia Whether you prefer bus, train, bicycle and or your own legs, getting around Kent couldn’t be easier. A great network of sustainable trails, paths and train lines run from town to town, leaving you with more time to experience the sheer beauty of Kent’s countryside, and a clear conscious about your carbon footprint. In a time marked by listicles and AI, what makes our selections unique is our people. We have real human beings on the ground all over the world discovering what’s new and evaluating old favorites, who are dedicated to making sure you have the guidance and recommendations you need to get you where you want to go.

March welcomes the start of spring in Uzbekistan, as blossoming apricots grace the landscape. As the month unfolds, expect warm and moderately dry weather, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 30°C (86°F). Seize the opportunity to explore the storied cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva; immerse yourself in mountainous retreats; or embark on an artistic and cultural journey in the capital city of Tashkent. Normandy, France With drier weather and more sunshine, August is a great time to explore Ecuador’s 10 national parks and eco-friendly cloud lodges – and Día de Independencia (August 8) and the procession of La Virgen del Cisne (August 15) are big events on the cultural calendar. If you’re not pushed for time, a brand new digital-nomad visa means tourists can enjoy extended stays in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Far North, ScotlandFrom foraging to fact-finding, cooking to creating, exploring to enjoying, Kent’s coastal destinations deliver a huge range of experiences to really enhance your stay. Whether you’re keen to live a local, flex your creative muscles, learn a new skill or try something truly unique, Kent offers experiences to suit every visitor. We’ve always known that Kent’s stunning heritage coastline is an incredibly special destination delivering unforgettable experiences for tourists from all over the globe - but now you don’t just have to take our word for it! Swap the Bosnian city of Mostar’s stifling summer heat for a balmy cultural getaway in spring. Visit the colorful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for its panoramic views of the city. Wander along cobblestone alleys (relatively crowd-free at this time of year) to find bazaars selling everything from ceramics to textiles and traditional art. Then head down to the River Neretva, where you can witness locals test gravity’s limits by diving from the Stari Most bridge. Maybe you’ll join in? If not, you can enjoy front-row seats at a riverbank cafe, Turkish coffee in hand. Europe’s night trains

Wales’ southwest is far less crowded with tourists than the north – and has an air of the untouched and untamed. The best period to visit starts in April, when rainfall is low and temperatures milder. A hike along the Wales Coast Path is the best way to explore this protected shore. PalauFrom beachcombing to village-hopping, volcano-climbing and indulging in fresh, lip-tingling ceviche, Nicaragua’s pleasures are plentiful. And in 2024, the country will offer visitors something even more special: it’s a prime viewing destination for the total eclipse on April 8. Observe it from atop a volcano for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Wales Local perspectives, itineraries and recommendations are at the heart of each destination to help you imagine and plan a memorable trip. Slow Travel, a favourite topic with Lonely Planet readers, is celebrated by highlighting the Portuguese Way hiking trail and the continued rise of night trains in Europe. Whilst the popular sun kissed country of Croatia is now easier to explore with theopening of the Peljesac Bridge shining a spotlight on the previously overlooked Peljesac Peninsula and a new highway means it's now possible to travel directly between Split and Dubrovnik.