The best places to visit next year

It's again time to shake off the shackles of everyday life and start planning the days, weeks or, if you're very fortunate, months that will make up the best part of the year - time spent in other places. Once more Lonely Planet has asked its staff and authors to nominate their picks for the destinations and experiences you really ought to put on your agenda in 2010, and it's sure to get your feet itching.

2010'S BEST VALUE DESTINATIONS

Pack your bags and grab your passport - incredible bargains await.

ICELAND

Have you always wanted to discover this magical, mysterious country? To explore ice caps and volcanoes, and wallow in hot springs? Been put off because of the prohibitive prices? Well, 2010 is your year. Last year's dramatic collapse of the currency, the kronur, against numerous currencies, made Iceland suddenly much, much more affordable. National air carrier Icelandair (http://www.icelandair.com) has also slashed fares in a bid to attract tourists.

THAILAND

Yes, perennially good-value Thailand is still top of the pops. You are always spoiled for choice regarding accommodation, and the standard of budget bedrooms is usually relatively high. Even the cheapest beach hut tends to be balmier than rock-bottom beds in other good-value destinations. Plus, of course, major resorts are splashing out huge discounts as businesses seek to win back tourists.

LONDON

Every economic crisis has a silver lining. Long ludicrously expensive, London has become much more affordable for visitors from abroad, if not for its residents. The favourable exchange rate means that travellers will often find hotels and meals up to half the price they were a few years ago, or at least a third cheaper. And there are plenty of great value deals on offer there. Luxury hotels have slashed rates so fiercely that indulging yourself in five-star comfort can sometimes seem like the most economic option.

BEST IN TRAVEL 2010: Available for 550 baht from all good bookshops.

SOUTH AFRICA

A great destination for holidaymakers, following a bad year for the rand and some good deals on airfares. South Africa is not only about an amazing climate, vast unspoiled scenery, balmy sandy beaches, extraordinary wildlife and adventure activities, but the cost of living is low, so it's also excellent value for money. Though be aware prices are going to rocket around June and early July, when a small event known as the FIFA World Cup is taking place.

MALAYSIA

With regular, reasonably priced flights and low, low prices, Malaysia is a clever choice for travellers on the lookout for a bargain. You can have a three-course meal there for about 250 baht, and the tourist industry is well developed, with a fine range of accommodation and some lovely low-cost places to stay, such as traditional wooden kampong houses on the beach or in the jungle.

INDIA

With years of economic boom under its belt, India surprises many travellers by being more expensive than they expect, especially for midrange travel. However, most foreign currencies still buy a fairly hefty quantity of rupees, and you can live exceedingly cheaply there. Head out of the major cities, settle down for a long stay in backpacker havens such as Goa or Pushkar, develop a taste for dhal and rice, and you'll find your money stretches almost as far as the infamous Indian stretchable time. You can also buy luxury there - such as fantastic hotel rooms in old palaces - for jaw-droppingly cheap prices.

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This is an edited extract from Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010 Lonely Planet Publications, 2009.