MUMBAI: BBC Magazines will launch Lonely Planet magazine later this year in the UK.
The monthly title will integrate the BBC's expertise in quality travel and cultural programming with Lonely Planet's reputation as a global travel brand.
The magazine will appeal to open-minded, inquisitive people who have a real sense of adventure and a desire to learn about, and connect with, the people and places they visit.
Predominantly aimed at frequent travellers with the time and means to indulge their passion, Lonely Planet magazine will combine inspirational ideas for future trips -from short breaks in the UK to long-haul journeys - with outstanding journalism and photography.
The title will feature travel and related themes, encouraging readers to seek out their own authentic adventures and to share their experiences. In November 2007, BBC Worldwide bought a 75 per cent stake in Lonely Planet, one of the world's most successful travel information providers. Lonely Planet has over 360 writers and photographers and produces around 500 travel books on destinations around the world, downloadable digital guides, an award-winning website, wireless applications and television programmes.
BBC Magazines' Group editorial director Nick Brett said, "Editorially, the two brands are a perfect match for each other. Lonely Planet has long wanted a magazine in its portfolio, which we can now provide, and the BBC has an array of travel programmes and talent that we can bring to the party."
f Lonely Planet magazine publisher Dominic Murray said: "The Lonely Planet brand has real appeal for this audience and I believe this new title brings unrivalled trust and expertise, as well as humour and entertainment to the travel magazine category."
The title will be produced from BBC Worldwide’s west London office and will be edited by Peter Grunert, previously Deputy Editor, Top Gear Magazine.
BBC Magazines will publish the title in the UK under licence from Lonely Planet, in which BBC Worldwide has a majority stake. BBC Magazines also plans to publish the title in other key territories in the future.
