Lonely Planet Publications · Footscray, Victoria Australia

Want to explore in Ecuador? Travel on the cheap in Chile? You're not alone. Lonely Planet Publications sells guidebooks aimed at the more independent traveler (its books once offered tips on buying good pot). Maureen and Tony Wheeler founded Lonely Planet in 1973 in a kitchen in Melbourne as they wrote a guide based on their trek across Asia. They now publish more than 500 titles covering every continent. Lonely Planet employs some 300 writers to update its publications, which include walking guides (Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya), phrasebooks, and guides for the budget traveler (Europe on a Shoestring). In 2007 the British Broadcasting Corp. bought a 75% stake in the firm; the Wheelers retain a 25% stake. To read the full description, subscribe now.

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