Tony Wheeler's Travel Regrets: The 4 Destinations Lonely Planet's Co-Founder Won't Return To
For decades, Tony Wheeler has been synonymous with adventure travel. As the co-founder of Lonely Planet, he's traversed the globe, inspiring countless others to explore the world’s hidden corners. But even a seasoned traveller has their limits. In a recent blog post titled “I’m Not Going There Anymore,” the 78-year-old Wheeler candidly reveals four destinations he won’t be revisiting – and the reasons why.
Russia Tops the List
Unsurprisingly, Russia holds the top spot on Wheeler’s “no-go” list. He cites the current political climate and the ongoing war in Ukraine as the primary reasons for his decision. “It’s just a bloody awful situation,” Wheeler stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the travel industry. He acknowledges the country’s rich history and cultural heritage, but the current circumstances make it an untenable destination for him. “There’s a lot of history there, a lot of culture, but…no, I’m not going back.”
Beyond Russia: Three Other Destinations
While Russia receives the most attention, Wheeler also highlights three other places he’s unlikely to return to. These choices, while less politically charged, are rooted in personal experiences and shifting travel priorities:
- Gibraltar: Wheeler describes his experience in Gibraltar as “a bit of a letdown.” He found the heavily touristed area lacking in authentic charm and feeling overly commercialised. “It just wasn’t what I expected,” he explained.
- North Korea: A trip to North Korea, while fascinating from a historical and political perspective, left Wheeler feeling uneasy. The intense surveillance and restrictions on movement made for a deeply unsettling experience. “It’s a very strange place, and I don’t think I need to go back,” he admitted.
- New York City: Surprisingly, the bustling metropolis of New York City also makes the list. Wheeler explained that he’s simply “done” with the crowds, noise, and relentless pace of the city. “I’ve seen it, I’ve done it, and I don’t need to do it again,” he said.
A Reflection on Travel and Change
Wheeler’s blog post isn’t just a list of places he’s avoiding. It’s a reflection on the evolving nature of travel and the personal journeys that shape our perspectives. What once held appeal can lose its luster, and new priorities can emerge. His honesty and willingness to share his travel regrets resonate with seasoned travellers who understand that even the most beloved destinations can eventually lose their magic.
“Travel isn’t about ticking boxes or conquering lists,” Wheeler concludes. “It’s about experiencing the world, learning from it, and evolving as a person. And sometimes, that means admitting that certain places just aren’t for you anymore.”
This candid look into the mind of a travel legend provides a fresh perspective on the world of adventure and reminds us that even the most experienced globetrotters have their own travel regrets.
