This month, Lonely Planet launches its new Encounter guidebook series with eight new titles aimed at travelers on short breaks and weekend jaunts to major cities like London, Dublin, Hong Kong and New York. At 6 x 4 inches, the guides are a good size for lugging around the city and include pull out maps and itineraries designed for two- to five-day trips. And along with the regular tourist information, this guide series offers tips, favorite destinations and other morsels from local celebrities (e.g. Craig Newmark in San Francisco).

Introducing Lonely Planet Encounter