In your opinion, what is the best travel guide book?
I’ve always worked with Lonely Planet, which have been awesome. I’ve heard about something called a “Blue Book(?)” which is supposed to be great. I have been to China many times, and I have been recently hired for a 2nd time to be a leader out there…so I am thinking of getting the China Lonely Planet, though I’ve heard some negative things about it (poor accuracy, etc).
So in two parts – best travel book in general, and best for China?
Thx! :)
Observing members:
0
Composing members:
0
4 Answers
Response moderated
I can’t comment on the China part, but I’ve had good luck with the Lonely Planet guides. Also, Rick Steve’s books tend to be decent in the sense that he scouts out cheaper/less touristy restaurants and activities, which can give you a more authentic experience. The problem with Rick Steves, though, is that he has this crazy rabid fan following (I am not one of these) that will do pretty much anything/everything he suggests, so the “off the beaten track” stuff ends up getting more touristy year after year.
I had the Frommer’s Italy 2009 guide, which my mom accidentally ordered instead of the Fodor’s guide and I was kind of appalled at what they considered “inexpensive”—essentially, I think that guide caters to more wealthy travelers.
I have good experience with Frommer’s in my travels. It does have expensive and also inexpensive ideas on what to do in town.
What part of China will you be going? I was there back in 1999 for a few days in Beijing a few days Hong Kong and a week in a small town called Meizhou in the Ghangzhou (spell?) district. Beautiful country. In one coastal town, I love how people run in back of the bicycle and jump on back of a bicylist to hang on during the commute/rush hour.
Answer this question 
Composing members:
0
