Inside the latest issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

With South Korean culture radiating around the world, National Geographic Traveller (UK) is inviting readers to explore the East Asian nation up-close. 

The so-called hallyu, or Korean Wave, may have rippled across the ocean and onto international screens, plates and playlists in the early 2010s, but for many that influx of cutting-edge culture sparked an urge to experience it right at the source, with tourism numbers surpassing 18.5 million arrivals in 2025. Now, there’s even more reason to uncover South Korea in all its complexity, with an extension to its high-speed rail network allowing visitors to effortlessly knit together the emerald-green mountains, eccentric art museums and medieval folk villages between Seoul and Busan. Unlock an in-depth guide to all this and more in the latest issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK), on newsstands now. 

The July/August issue also includes a special feature dedicated to the winning images from the 2026 National Geographic Traveller (UK) Photography Competition, sponsored by Hahnemühle and King’s Cross — a celebration of people, cultures and wildlife from around the world. The images are also available to be seen in an open-air exhibition, spanning London’s Granary Square and beyond (28 May to 12 July).  

Don’t miss

Malawi: In this biodiverse corner of Southern Africa, conservation projects are preserving the landscape while protecting local life
Malta: Tracing the nation’s myths and monsters, from the Valletta Vampire to serpents and shape-shifting ghosts
Copenhagen: In search of the good life in the Danish capital, regularly named among the world’s happiest places to live
Cornwall: This coastal powerhouse is home to expert craftspeople, including a woodturner on Bodmin Moor and sea-glass jeweller in Falmouth
Food Experiences: Eight hands-on trips around Europe that delve into star ingredients, traditional recipes and local culinary culture
Julian Alps: Take a tour through the ruggedly beautiful mountain range in Slovenia
Istanbul: A journey around the Turkish capital in search of its signature, sugar-dusted sweet
Barcelona: The Spanish city’s best sleeps for rooftop views, local buzz and art nouveau architecture
Bangkok: Whether at a humble street food stall or fine-dining restaurant, any meal in the Thai capital is an exhilarating experience 

The Edit: introducing the coolest swimming spot in Paris; the openings, new experiences and seasonal events on our radar; eccentric festivities to experience this summer; a bookworm’s guide to cafes, museums and reading nooks in Kraków; the best bites in Sydney according to a local chef; on the trail of Beatrix Potter in the Lake District; riding waves at Edinburgh’s Lost Shore Surf Resort; a taste of local life in Nashville; and a journey into the twilight world of dusking.  

Special Interest: Jamie Lafferty on his quest to see all 18 of the world’s penguin species
In Focus: See the winning entries from this year’s Photography Competition 

Expert Traveller: The West African nation of Ghana is our One to Watch this month; The Lowdown explores how heatwaves are changing travel; Kit List returns with essential equipment for beach trips; The Story Behind picks its way through the history of Provence’s lavender fields; How To offers up an ethical guide to haggling; and Great Little Place sees National Geographic Traveller (UK) readers pick their favourite haunts around the world. Finally, author, chef and TV presenter Antoni Porowski shares his most memorable journeys in My Travels.