Israel & The Palestinian Territories
Middle East
Five stars and a blockade
The al-Mashtal in Gaza City doesn't have tourists but its existence is a symbol of optimism, writes Harriet Sherwood.
Israel
A holy bunch of hedonists
Expecting military checkpoints and religious fanaticism, Andrew Taylor instead discovers a land where culture, nightlife and the beach often take precedence over piety and politics.
Israel
Twitchers on the kibbutz
At a desert pit stop for a billion birds, Deborah Stone discovers an eco-village of geodesic domes and recycled art.
Happy holidays
World's top 10 best places to celebrate Christmas
Christmas has become a global festival, regardless of religion or location. Here are the best places in the world to experience the yuletide spirit.
Photo galleries
Top 10 places to celebrate Christmas
Christmas has become a global festival, regardless of religion or location.
Travellers Tips
Tripologist
On the phone on three continents
Tripologist What is the least costly way to use mobile phones and email while travelling across three continents?
Best in travel
World's top 10 cities for 2011 named
Lonely Planet has drawn on the knowledge, passion and kilometres travelled by its staff, authors and online community to present the Top 10 Cities to visit in 2011.
