25 years of Wanderlust

Apr 1997

The magazine runs its first Travel Photo of the Year competition, won by Paul Gallagher’s ‘Tibetan Buddhist Monks’.

Feb 1998

The magazine’s first travel writing competition is won by barrister John Gimlette, who goes on to become a celebrated travel writer.

Summer 1998

The magazine hires its first full-time staff: editorial assistant Matt Rudd and sales executive Ellen Wiffen.

Sept 1999

Wanderlust launches its first Travel Awards, hosted by broadcaster Andy Kershaw, with New Zealand winning ‘Best Country’ and Cuzco ‘Best City’.

Oct 2001

Wanderlust publishes its first book, Visions

of Wanderlust, based on five years of the Photo of the Year competition.

Feb 2002

The 50th issue, ‘The World’s Ultimate Top 50’, becomes the best-selling issue ever.

Feb 2003

The magazine is redesigned, with new contributors including columnist Chris Stewart, author of best-seller Driving Over Lemons.