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The Philippines' edition of Lonely Planet Magazine goes on sale today, 24 May 2010, following a licensing deal between ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Magazines and Bella Luce Publications, Inc.

This will be the seventh international edition of Lonely Planet Magazine since the title launched in the UK in December 2008. The deal also marks the first partnership between Bella Luce Publications and ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Magazines.

The first edition is now on sale, with a cover price of Pesos 250 and a print run of 10,000 copies.

³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Worldwide's Licensing Manager in Asia-Pacific, Chun Leong Ong said: "Lonely Planet Magazine Philippines represents another important step towards our ambition to become the world’s leading travel title. I believe Bella Luce will be able to set a new benchmark for travel magazines in Philippines and prospective Filipino travellers will embrace Lonely Planet Magazine's blend of inspiration and advice. With three more licences due to be announced in the next few weeks, these are exciting times for Lonely Planet Magazine."

Nick Tuason, Managing Director of Bella Luce said: "We are excited to produce Lonely Planet Magazine Philippines for ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Magazines. Travel is the next luxury product in the Philippines. Domestic travel is increasing and we believe readers will choose Lonely Planet because of its in-depth articles and unbiased reviews."

The magazine will be edited by Scott "Gutsy" Tuason, a well-known and respected travel photographer and writer in Philippines. He has published a number of books, including Anilao, an award-winning coffee table book on diving.

NOTES TO EDITORS
Lonely Planet Magazine launched in the UK in November 2008 and recorded an audited circulation of 45,052 in Jul-Dec 2009. The title combines the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ's expertise in quality programming on travel and world cultures with Lonely Planet’s reputation as a leading global travel brand. The title is now published under licence in Brazil, France, Spain, Singapore, Argentina and now the Philippines, and in India under a joint venture agreement. More international deals are in the pipeline.

Bella Luce Publications Inc is a specialist magazine publisher. Their first title, Digital Photographer Philippines, was published in June 2006 and is now the leading photography magazine in the Philippines. Following the success of this title, Bella Luce expanded its portfolio into other genres: iCreate magazine is the only Mac magazine in the Philippines; Wedding Belle is a fun, friendly, cute, glossy that caters to modern and stylish brides; and Junior is the country's premiere parenting title.

Sarah Williams-Robbins