MUMBAI: BBC.com has launched its new travel site in partnership with its sister company Lonely Planet.

BBC.com/travel is the first in a series of factual and lifestyle sites, alongside BBC.com‘s new US edition.
 
BBC.com/travel is led by Editorial Director, David G. Allan, formerly NYTimes.com Travel and Styles Editor.

BBC.com, already attracting advertisers and 16 million unique users, has secured Emirates as the key sponsor of the travel section.

BBC.com senior VP Miranda Cresswell says, "We know the people who come to BBC.com are curious about the world and look to us to feed that curiosity. BBC Travel will deliver insight, know-how and adventure that connects you to the world. With first person accounts from on the road we will dig into local culture, history and architecture." 
 
At launch, the site has a range of stories from destinations including Italy, the Caribbean and New York City. Coming soon are a series of specially commissioned stories from BBC contributors and Lonely Planet authors such as the Edinburgh Festival, Japan‘s twist on Fall foliage and life above the Arctic Circle.
Allan says, "Our audience already loves the smart, sophisticated and well researched stories from the BBC. BBC Travel builds on our news and documentary heritage with outstanding travel journalism, and key insights from Lonely Planet‘s authors, to inspire you to leave your desk and have an adventure whatever the destination."