Tasmin Waby

Writer | Editor

United Kingdom

Born in London to New Zealander parents, I grew up in New York, Sydney and then Melbourne, Australia. Today I have whānau around the world - a blessing even if I don't know where to call home. A travel writer and editor I also trained to teach English (ask me anything about phrasal verbs). During the 2020 lockdown I also co-produced a travel podcast, "This Place, This Story" (still available on Spotify, Audible and Apple podcasts). When not away on an assignment, I spend my days tinkering on a canal boat while raising two kids and a fat Russian Blue cat called, Milly.

LinkedIn Icon Email Icon
Portfolio
Lonely Planet
Copy My Trip: A week in Australia's incredible Top End

onely Planet contributor, Tasmin Waby, just returned from a trip to the northernmost part of Australia's Northern Territory. Here, she shares details of a trip spent mainly on water in the lush green wetlands of the Top End.

Lonely Planet
Australia vs New Zealand: which to choose?

If you’re planning a great Antipodean adventure, Australia and New Zealand tempt in equal measure. Yet since that year-long sabbatical that will allow you to travel slowly across both countries may be a long time coming, you’ll likely have to make the tough decision to visit one over the other. How do you tackle such a choice? Let two of our travel experts help.

Lonely Planet
How do I manage my period when traveling?

The ultimate trip planner for every month of the year: discover the best places to visit throughout the seasons. From city breaks to tropical beach vacations and family adventures, this book is organized by month with recommendations for trips that range from weekend escapes to one- and two-week getaways.

Lonely Planet
Best Road Trips France (January 2024)

Discover the freedom of the open road with Lonely Planet's France's Best Road Trips. This trusted travel companion features 38 amazing drives, from 2-day escapes to 2-week adventures. See Britanny's stunning coastline, explore medieval Burgundy, and trawl through Provence's markets. Get to France, rent a car, and hit t

Lonely Planet
Best Road Trips Great Britain (October 2023)

Discover the freedom of the open road with Lonely Planet's Great Britain's Best Road Trips. This trusted travel companion features 36 amazing drives, from 3-day escapes to 3-week adventures. Explore the majestic Welsh mountains, gaze at the mysterious Stonehenge and cruise grand Scottish moors . Get to Great Britain, r

Lonely Planet
The very best British music festivals to get to in 2023

Tickets to the headline events like Glastonbury may have been snapped up the moment they went on sale (although we give you the inside scoop on other ways to get there). But there's more to summer than the Pyramid Stage at Worthy Farm – Great Britain knows how to put on a musical festival with something for every taste and budget. Here are the very best festivals to book for a summer of camping, dancing and partying.

Lonely Planet
Returning to Australia after two years of longing

For the first time, the team at Lonely Planet and its panel of industry experts have ranked the top 500 unmissable experiences and hidden gems across Australia - to create this definitive travel wishlist.

Lonely Planet
The Joy of Wild Swimming (September 2023)

Dive into 60 of the world's most joyous wild swimming spots and discover a further 120 ideas for uplifting bathing experiences. Packed with inspirational expert insights, immersive photography, and essential trip planning tips, this remarkable book explores the open-water swims guaranteed to exhilarate, rejuvenate, res

Lonely Planet
Top 18 free things to do in Melbourne

Whether you want to peruse world-class art galleries or take in a live political debate, here are 18 excellent free things to do in Melbourne.

Lonely Planet
Where to stay in Melbourne

Like many cities, Melbourne is more a collection of villages than a single unified city. Developed throughout the city's varied history, each suburb has its...

Lonely Planet
What you need to know about the FIFA Women's World Cup

If you’re headed to Australia or New Zealand this summer, you might want to pack your national flag along with your sunglasses and camera. The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is on in nine cities across these two countries this July and August.

Lonely Planet
Greece is making hundreds of beaches accessible to more people

Meet Elsewhere, Lonely Planet's new travel-planning service. From Argentina to Vietnam, our worldwide network of local experts can plan your trip from arrival to departure, so you can spend less time poring over train timetables and more having the best experiences possible.

Lonely Planet
Which ferry do I take for the best Sydney views?

In this series, Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. All-around travel expert and native Aussie Tasmin Waby helps a reader with the Sydney-related question below.

Lonely Planet
13 things to know before you go to Sydney

Plan at least four days in Sydney, depending on the length of your trip and what else you hope to see. A week is better, but of course, the longer you stay, the more you’ll experience in this stunningly located and hugely cosmopolitan city.

Lonely Planet
What travelers need to know about King Charles III's coronation - Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet's Experience London travel guide reveals exciting new ways to explore this iconic destination with one-of-a-kind adventures at every turn. Find a floral jungle at Columbia Road Flower Market, visit Sky Garden's park in the clouds, see Shakespeare at the Globe - using our local experts and planning tools to create your own unique trip.

Lonely Planet
03/01/2023
London Pocket guidebook (March 2023)

Lonely Planet's Pocket London is your guide to the city's best experiences and local life - neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Explore history at the British Museum, delve into history at the Tower of London and soar over the city on the London Eye; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
21 top things to do in Sydney to get a feel for Australia's first city

Lonely Planet's Best of East Coast Australia is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip and what hidden discoveries await you. Snorkel the Whitsundays, tour the Opera House or bushwalk at Wilsons Prom; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
08/01/2023
Great Britain guidebook (July 2023)

This title will be in stock around August 8 in the Americas regions. It is in stock everywhere else. Lonely Planet's Great Britain is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the region has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Puzzle the mysteries of Stonehenge,

Lonely Planet
Everything you need to know to get around Sydney this year

Lonely Planet's Best of East Coast Australia is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip and what hidden discoveries await you. Snorkel the Whitsundays, tour the Opera House or bushwalk at Wilsons Prom; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
07/01/2023
England guidebook (July 2023)

Lonely Planet's England is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences.

Lonely Planet
10 things that make us happy to travel in 2023

It’s been a turbulent couple of years for travelers. So, once again, nothing makes us happier than having our next trip to look forward to. Whether you’re traveling to learn something new, giving back in a meaningful way or simply immersing yourself in the beauty of the world, here are 10 travel ideas we’re excited about for 2023.

Lonely Planet
10/01/2021
Australia guidebook (October 2021)

Lonely Planet's Australia is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Dive in the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at the unique wildlife, and hit the beach at Byron Bay; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
Start saving to experience one of these incredible safari stays in Australia

When you think of luxury safaris, Australia may not immediately spring to mind. But with vast landscapes, incredible wildlife and accommodation spots so remote you can only access them by plane, Australia has a host of once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experiences you need to experience when you head Down Under. Here's our pick of the best.

Lonely Planet
The best time to go to Sydney: a guide to festivals, events and the weather

Discover the freedom of the open road with Australia's Best Trips. A guide to 38 amazing road trips that range from two-day escapes to two-week adventures. We'll also show you recommended detours to take, where to have the best experiences outside of the car and how to link your trip to other routes.

Lonely Planet
First-timer's guide to Western Australia

If you’re heading to Western Australia to get away from it all, camp under the stars, frolic on empty beaches, explore mind-blowing geology, and learn from millennia of indigenous cultures, you’re in the right place.

Spotify/ Apple podcasts/ Anchor FM/ Sound Cloud
This Place, This Story podcast (2020)

I wrote, edited and produced the London episode of This Place, This Story. Each episode is anchored by an audio 'love letter' to a location that aims to inspire wanderlust, spark a connection and provide an insight into extra special parts of our planet.

Lonely Planet
Beat the London heat with these top swim spots

Lonely Planet's England is our most comprehensive guide that covers all the country has to offer. Ideal for travelers that are visiting for an extended time and want to tailor their own trip. Experience the charm of the Lake District, gaze up at the dreamy spires of Oxford or kick back in a cozy pub - all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
The best UK music festivals to get to in 2022

From stalwarts like Glastonbury and Reading plus boutique festivals such as End of the Road and brand new ones like Kite Festival in Oxford, here's your guide to the UK's best festivals in summer 2022. After two years of pandemic cancellations, the Brits are ready to party. Grab your tickets today.

Lonely Planet
03/25/2022
Gimuy, Rubibi... Why Australia is encouraging visitors to recognize Indigenous place names

To celebrate and acknowledge Australia 's Aboriginal cultural heritage, Tourism Australia has announced it will be adopting a dual-naming approach for capital cities and other major locations. Dual-naming not only recognises 60,000 years of Indigenous custodianship, it brings Aboriginal languages and understandings into mainstream consciousness. A number of Australian place names already have dual-names.

Lonely Planet
The best things to do in Oxford: exploring the university and beyond

It may be true that Oxford’s prestigious university is the city’s defining feature, but stray a little beyond the educational institution’s hallowed grounds and you’ll stumble upon intriguing museums, labyrinthine bookstores, and excellent historic pubs to while away an afternoon like the writers of yesteryear did. There's a lot more to this golden-hued city than austere and solemn academia. Here are the top things to do in Oxford, a centuries-old city full of modern inspiration.

Lonely Planet
04/14/2022
Getting a job in Antarctica may not be as impossible as you think

Almost everyone wants to see Antarctica but not everyone can afford the price tag. Some lucky travelers visit this dream destination on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise where photography and wildlife viewing are the primary focus. Others dream, plan, train and then test their limits tackling super-human adventure activities in this incredible wilderness frontier.

Lonelyplanet
Is 2021 the year to try sober travel?

More travelers are choosing sober nights out when traveling, finding their experiences are richer, more memorable and they're more engaged with local culture than when they hopped between bars.

Lonely Planet
12/09/2019
How to travel New Zealand in a sustainable way

Unless you're sailing from Australia or a Pacific island, getting to New Zealand is always going to require flying - something many are reconsidering as they look to reduce their carbon output from air travel. The good news is once you're in this beautiful country, there are many ways to travel sustainably.

Lonely Planet
01/01/2021
Travel trends for the year ahead: sober travel

More travelers are choosing sober nights out when traveling, finding their experiences are richer, more memorable and they're more engaged with local culture than when they hopped between bars or spent the night chasing a single beer in an alcohol-free country. Not-drinking is one of the most surprising trends of the early 21st century.

Lonely Planet
Low Carbon Europe (2019)

Climate concern is cited as the number one reason for increasing numbers of travellers choosing train travel over flights. This inspiring book shows readers who are motivated to travel more sustainably exactly what is possible, introducing some amazing European trips from three days to three weeks in duration with 100 no-fly itineraries across the continent.

Lonely Planet
02/17/2020
What to expect when you travel solo with kids

Some parents have to travel solo with kids because their partner is working, not interested in travelling, or are otherwise incapacitated. Others travel with their kids because they're single parents. If that's the case, you're probably used to some of the logistics required, but you might not be prepared for the experiences you're to have.

Lonely Planet
04/22/2021
How New Zealand is leaning into "regenerative travel"

When the 100% Pure New Zealand marketing campaign was launched in 1999 it was considered 'pure genius' by many. Twenty years on this branding was at risk from localised overtourism issues: Aotearoa-New Zealand's population of around 5 million was hosting 11 million visitors per year from 2016 to 2019, and the strain was beginning to show.

Stuff NZ
11/22/2020
Eight of the best foodie finds in the Bay of Islands

Called 'the Winterless North', the Bay of Islands region is a favourite New Zealand summer-time destination, with its sparkling azure waters scattered with 150 lush green islands. Most of the action is out on the water...

Lonely Planet
Sober nights out in Europe's top cities

Just because you don't drink doesn't mean you don't want a good night out. Here's our guide to the best nightlife for sober travellers in Europe's cities.

Lonely Planet
06/15/2020
Cool places to stay with your dog in Britain this summer

British people love their dogs. In fact 25% percent of households in the United Kingdom include a dog, a figure that is likely to be even higher this year thanks to a surge in pet-owning popularity during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Lonely Planet
01/18/2022
Lonely Planet reveals the 10 best travel experiences in the UK

The United Kingdom may be relatively compact, but it has a wealth of travel experiences that you've probably dreamed of since childhood. Buckingham Palace? Hadrian's Wall? Stonehenge? They're all here. Of course there are dozens of incredible places to visit across Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, but we give you the 10 best UK experiences to put on your itinerary, especially if it's your first time here.

Lonely Planet
03/20/2022
5 jaw-dropping luxury stays in New Zealand

Yes it has pristine wilderness, vibrant culture, and super-friendly locals, but did you know New Zealand is also blessed with some of the world's best accommodation? Aotearoa's luxury lodges offer not only security and privacy: guests get exclusive access to such memorable experiences as horse-riding in alpine meadows, heli-skiing and fly-fishing.

Lonely Planet
07/22/2021
Top neighborhoods to explore in Sydney

It's called the Harbour City for good reason. Few places on earth are as defined by their geographical form as Sydney, and even fewer incorporate such a spectacular water feature. Everything here revolves around the water - suburbs, recreation, traffic, even the collective consciousness.

Lonely Planet
07/31/2021
Everything you need to know to get around Sydney

Sydney is not the easiest city to get around, but its public transport network is reliable, reasonably priced and way more convenient than driving. Sydney's transport network is as complex as its roads system which grew organically, marrying disparate settlements around the harbour.

Lonely Planet
England guidebook (2021)

Lonely Planet's England is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Experience the singular charm of the Lake District, gaze up at the dreamy spires of Oxford, or kick back in a cozy pub; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
Women-only tours are on the increase in the Middle East

It seems like this is the year of the Solo Woman Traveller with more women than ever deciding to head out on the road for transformative life experiences. Around the world there are some experiences that are uniquely feminine, cue: new female-only group tours in the Middle East. Get to know this region from a woman's perspective and enter places men are not allowed, travelling with other like-minded female adventurers.

Lonelyplanet
Best of Great Britain (2021)

Lonely Planet's Best of Great Britain is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore London's museums, sip whisky in Scotland, and hike in Snowdonia; all with your trusted travel companion. Discover the best of Great Britain and begin your journey now!

Culture Trip
11/29/2021
The Best Beach Hotels to Book on Oahu, Hawaii

Diamond Head, reflects cool surfer vibes of yesteryear in its decor. All rooms come with private lanais (balconies), and splurging is particularly worthwhile: the penthouse ocean suites please the eye with tropical print cushions and ocean-deep statement wallpaper; the one-bedroom suite boasts its own wet bar.

Lonelyplanet
Great Britain (September 2021)

Lonely Planet's Great Britain is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Puzzle the mysteries of Stonehenge, sip whisky in Scotland, and hike the mountains of Wales; all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet
02/03/2020
Visit Zealandia, the lost eighth continent

What if your school books actually got it all wrong, though? There is now strong evidence there's an eighth continent, mostly under the ocean - and no, it's not the lost city of Atlantis. It's one you might actually have visited. It's called Zealandia.

Social Media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter)
2020
My Green Prescription

Social Media Content Creator (Instagram, Facebook, Google) & SEO consultant for a new nature health & wellness business.

Lonely Planet
12/19/2016
Air New Zealand's latest safety video takes a road trip with some local celebrities

The latest stars New Zealand, as well as some local homegrown talent, such as international supermodel Rachel Hunter and actor Joe Naufahu who played Khal Moro in Game of Thrones. This Summer of Safety edition, shot at ten locations across Northland's Bay of Islands and Hokianga, was inspired by the classic Kiwi road trip.

Lonely Planet
04/25/2018
British Library to host exhibition of Captain Cook's voyages

To mark 250 years since Captain James Cook's ship set sail from Plymouth in 1768, the British Library on London's Euston Road will be hosting a major exhibition (from 27 April 2018 to 28 August 2018) telling the story of Cook's three voyages through original documents, many of which were produced by the artists, scientists and seamen on board the ship.

Lonely Planet
Ten times less dangerous than selfies....

After a few high profile shark attacks lately including one in Queensland and another in Reunion, travellers are naturally asking: 'are more shark attacks...

Lonely Planet
Wine Trails: Australia & New Zealand (2018)

Lonely Planet brings you 40 perfect weekends in Australia and New Zealand wine country, introducing vineyards in regions including the Clare Valley, Margaret River, Hawkes Bay, Tamar Valley and Marlborough, as well as celebrating secret gems off the beaten path.

Lonely Planet
Things you probably didn't know you can do in New Zealand

It may be synonymous with adventure sports, epic scenery from the Lord of the Rings films and the spine-tingling haka of the All Blacks rugby team, but New Zealand has plenty of lesser-known experiences for travellers.

Lonelyplanet
The Joy Of Water (2020)

Idyllic, wild swimming holes, alluring lakes and magical coves; discover more than 60 locations around the world to experience The Joy of Water with this inspirational new book from Lonely Planet. Tap into the 'water wellness' trend with personal stories about the best places to take a dip and forge a stronger connection to the elements through interactions with water.

Lonely Planet
New Zealand's art scene is taking the world by storm

New Zealand artists have made a splash with the opening of the Oceania exhibition at the Royal Academy in London this month. While a unique opportunity to see Kiwi art curated in one show in London, creatives from this Pacific Rim nation are popping up across all arts industries with their unique voices and perspectives.

Globetotting
10/13/2016
Family travel: Our adventures in Morocco

Morocco is one of those countries where real life surpasses the imagination. People are overwhelmingly friendly especially when you have children in tow - a real benefit for women travellers who can be unpleasantly overwhelmed by ‘friendliness’ in some hotspots.

Lonely Planet
How to survive a hangover on the road

Travelling with a hangover is never ideal. And it's a predicament our Lonely Planet staffers know all too well... But whether you wake up worse for wear in...

Lonely Planet
Steven Martin loans his Aboriginal Australian artworks to a New York gallery

American actor and comedian Steve Martin might be known for his not-so-secret passion for bluegrass, but did you know he also has an enviable collection of Aboriginal Australian artworks. Learn more about the art, Steve Martin's love for it, and how Aboriginal motifs and understandings are influencing the globe.

Lonelyplanet
New Zealand's Best Trips

Destination editor: planned, commissioned, briefed and contracted this first edition title for Lonely Planet.