Better with interactive features

Since moving online, travel guides have more fully met the needs of niche readers, reports The International Herald Tribune.

Web, mobile and other offerings have been introduced to traditional brands like Lonely Planet, as guides strive to retain and gain users in the face of new competition.

Some have found success in tapping user-generated reviews and tips to flesh out listings. Others allow for e-commerce transactions that let people book flights, hotels and make other arrangements directly through the site.

The initial reluctance of publishers to embrace the web comes from a desire to not cannibalize book sales. But Lonely Planet now says that in two years, all its content will be online. This sentiment is echoed by other major travel guide brands.

Online ad revenue is perceived as an important new income stream that can add to book sales and other income.