Ask LP: What's a more authentic travel experience, a hotel or Airbnb?

Plus 20 best free things to do in Tokyo, Australia's whale-shaped under water marine observatory rising from the ocean, and the best time to go to Ireland.

Ask LP: What's a more authentic travel experience, a hotel or Airbnb? Many of us are looking for authenticity when we travel, to feel like we're really getting to know a place and its people. Lots of companies try to sell this authenticity to us, particularly for accommodation, as John Walton explores.   Learn more   20 best free things to do in Tokyo Exploring Japan's capital is a mind-blowing experience, but it can also blow your budget. Don't despair – there's an abundance of things to do and see in Tokyo that don't cost a single yen. From gardens and temples to contemporary art, sumo practice and a world-famous fish market, here's Tokyo's best free attractions. Read More Australia's whale-shaped underwater marine observatory will rise from the ocean The design of the Australian Underwater Discovery Centre has been unveiled, after the public was encouraged to vote for their favorite. The successful design, a whale-shaped building, will be partially submerged in the sea and located two hours south of Perth. Read More The best time to go to Ireland With its famously unpredictable weather, it can be tough to decide the best time to visit Ireland. The good news is that whatever month you decide to go, you'll have lots of things to do. Read More Celebrate Lunar New Year online with a variety of virtual events Many of the celebrations for the Lunar New Year are taking place virtually this year, inspired by food, performances and art and craft traditions that take place across Asia. The new year begins on 12 February this year, heralded by the new moon that takes place on 11 February. Read More Looking for more to read? In addition to these top picks above, these articles have been trending: I've visited more than 70 Unesco World Heritage sites - these are the best How to make an açaí bowl Destination Drinks #15: Mai Tai This New Mexico preserve is now an international dark sky park See more   Go Premium with a Lonely Planet Membership.   Enjoy the perks of being an official LP Member and get unrestricted access to watch any shows on Lonely Planet TV, unlimited destinations on the Lonely Planet Guides app, exclusive discounts to the Lonely Planet Shop and more.   Get your membership

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