Tony Wheeler, the co-founder of Lonely Planet, has spent 50 years exploring the globe. Despite the success of his publishing company, he remains an avid backpacker at heart.
The Birth of Lonely Planet:
In 1973, Tony and his wife, Maureen, embarked on a road trip from London to Turkey, Iran, and Afghanistan, which ultimately led to the creation of Lonely Planet.
The name was inspired by a misheard lyric in Joe Cocker’s song, and it has become an iconic brand in the travel industry.
Catering to Young Globetrotters:
Lonely Planet’s earliest guidebooks targeted young adventurers with limited funds, eager to explore uncharted territories.
A Passion for Travel:
Despite selling the company in 2011, Tony and Maureen continue to be passionate travelers, dividing their time between London and Melbourne.
Dealing with Travel Setbacks:
Wheeler shares his perspective on handling travel mishaps, emphasizing the importance of adapting to unexpected challenges.
Lost Luggage Prevention:
Tony’s strategy for avoiding lost luggage is to stick with carry-ons that stay close to his person, ensuring that his belongings are not separated from him during the journey.
Traveling in Challenging Locations:
He advises travelers to be aware of the political climate in the countries they plan to visit, as sometimes destinations with warnings can offer incredible experiences and opportunities.
Crime and Safety:
While Tony has been a victim of crime once, he encourages travelers to trust their instincts when assessing safety in a foreign location.
Overcrowding Solutions:
Tony Wheeler suggests venturing “two streets over” from popular tourist spots to discover hidden gems and reduce overcrowding.
Exploring Other Modes of Travel:
The travel enthusiast shares his love for train travel and eco-friendly transportation options, highlighting memorable experiences from his recent journeys.
The Evolution of Lonely Planet:
The article concludes by mentioning the growth of the Lonely Planet brand, now owned by Red Ventures, offering various resources and travel tips for modern explorers.
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