Lonely Planet defends its guidebooks

Lonely Planet has spoken out in defence of the independence and professionalism of its iconic guidebooks, following the critical comments of travel writer Thomas Kohnstamm.

Spokesperson Heather Carswell said that Mr Kohnstamm was not employed as an on-the-ground author for the Colombia guidebook but did desk-based research only.

He did not write any reviews of attractions, accommodation or restaurants but instead contributed to the introductory chapter on Colombia's history, culture, food and drink and environment, she noted.

Lonely Planet insists that on-the-ground writers wrote the remainder of the Colombia guide.

Ms Carswell also said that Lonely Planet disagrees with the claims writers are not paid enough to do the job without shortcuts.

"While we ask a lot of our authors, we lead the industry in the fees we pay, and review our author fees annually," she claimed.

"Thomas' claims are not an accurate reflection of how Lonely Planet authors work or what goes into our guidebooks.

"Our authors are hardworking, passionate travellers who research every destination on-the-ground."

However, Lonely Planet has said it will carefully review all the guidebooks Mr Kohnstamm has contributed to, checking for any inaccuracies.