Issued November 23, 2009

Lonely Planet makes Progress with Nokia to benefit communities around the world

Lonely Planet has partnered with Nokia to create the video content for a unique microsite called TheProgressProject.com. The microsite features videos which show how Nokia's mobile innovations are benefitting communities in different corners of the world by the use of mobile devices and software to tackle everyday challenges that shape lives. The key theme is the progressive development of humankind.

TheProgressProject.com recently launched with six initial projects documented through compelling video reports by Lonely Planet author Frances Linzee Gordon. Frances travelled to the USA, Brazil and India to talk to the people involved and to reveal the positive effect on society of using mobile devices to tackle everyday challenges that shape our lives. The projects ranged from accelerating a grassroots business to providing better access to healthcare to increasing awareness of our environmental impact.

The benefits of the projects are already apparent. Frances travelled to Central Brazil to look at a data gathering project in which Nokia mobile phones are helping to conduct an important health project. As a result of the programme the number of cases of dengue fever has been cut by 93% in the region.

Ushma Patel, Lonely Planet's Head of Business Development EMEA said; "The Progress Project videos that we created tap into our expertise and knowledge of the world at large. We are engaging with our travel community to inform and educate of the inspirational stories we have captured around the world."

David Mason, Head of Technology Marketing, Nokia said: 'The aim of the Progress Project is to show how mobile devices can make a difference in people's lives by helping to solve everyday challenges. Lonely Planet's wide understanding of different people across the globe and their situations brings a level of authenticity to the Progress stories as well as an objective perspective. Using Lonely Planet's production skills we have also been able to tell these stories in a compelling and human way.'

On the Progress Project website (www.theprogressproject.com) people can sign up for email updates about current and future projects around the globe with the chance to win Nokia N97 handsets and copies of Lonely Planet's book, Volunteer: A Traveller's Guide to Making a Difference Around the World.

About Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet is the leading global travel information provider. It covers the must-see spots, but also encourages travellers to get off the beaten track and understand more of the nature, culture and environment in each destination. Lonely Planet currently has more than 360 writers, researchers and photographers and produces around 500 trustworthy and inspiring books, innovative downloadable digital guides, an award-winning website, wireless applications and cutting-edge television programmes.

About Nokia

Nokia is a pioneer in mobile telecommunications and the world's leading maker of mobile devices. Today, we are connecting people in new and different ways - fusing advanced mobile technology with personalized services to enable people to stay close to what matters to them. We also provide comprehensive digital map information through NAVTEQ; and equipment, solutions and services for communications networks through Nokia Siemens Networks.

Lonely Planet and Nokia

Lonely Planet has been working with Nokia since 2007 bringing travel information to handsets with Lonely Planet recommendations on OVI maps to find things to do and see in your home city and away. Mobile phrasebooks and city guides are also available through the Ovi Store.