Recommended Novels for your Travels: 2005
As anyone can attest from reading The Agony & the Ecstasy before a trip to Michelangelo-land or Trinity before visiting the Emerald Isle, recreational reading can make your sightseeing a lot more fun and meaningful. Which books carbonated your travel experience best?
British History
I highly recommend "British History for Dummies". It's well written, concise, humorous, and made a huge difference in my understanding and appreciation of what I was seeing on a recent trip to England. I also now can finally understand those BBC historical dramas on a less superficial level.
abc
Eugene, OR USA Sat 12/31/2005
Egypt and the Total Solar Eclipse
I'm interested in seeing the total solar eclipse on March 29, 2006 from Alexandria Egypt, or better some 300 miles west of their on the coast near the Libyan border. In searching these web pages I came up with several hits on Luxor and a few references to Egypt. Nothing specific to to the area I'm interested in. It appears as though Rick does have some info on DVDs and possibly other sources. I wouldn't mind augmenting my trip with other sites in Egypt. Does he have material on places to stay and sites of interest in the manner of his books?
Wayne Watson
CA USA Thu 12/29/2005
France and the French
"Sixty Million Frenchmen Can't Be Wrong"
A good book about French customs and attitudes and why they seem so strange to "Anglo-Saxons".
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Sat 12/17/2005
Ireland
Going to Ireland? A must read is Pete McCarthy's McCarthy's Bar, a hilarious travelogue on Irish pubs, Catholicism, the Irish, the English, Americans, and everyone else. Pete McCarthy is one of the best travel writers! You'll be laughing outloud!
Audrey Ellis
Keizer, OR USA Wed 12/14/2005
England and France. Historical Fiction
I recently read the Grail trilogy by Bernard Cornwell. It's full of details about the major cities in England and France durring the Hundred Years War. The first book is called "The Archers Tale" and tells about southern England and Normandy. The Second book Has parts of Scotland, most of England, and Parts of Northern France. The third book tells about Calais, France and follows down to the southern parts of France.
Over all, great books. I've read them 3 times already!
Josh
Reno, NV USA Sun 12/11/2005
Venice Travel Book
I agree with Beth Hill about John Berendt's City of Fallen Angels (non- fiction; he wrote Midnight in Garden of Good and Evil about Savannah, GA) about Venice. It is a must read if you are going to Venice. After reading it, I definitely have to go to Venice!
Audrey Ellis <email>
Keizer, OR USA Wed 11/23/2005
Road Atlas
When we toured the UK in June, I wanted a small road atlas to follow the tour bus route. Rick's travel store is now offering a mini road atlas. I ordered one (guess I'll have to take another trip to the UK) and it is great! Highly recommend this purchase for your trip to the UK or any other mini Michelin road atlas.Thanks Rick for adding it to the Travel Store.
Audrey Ellis <email>
Keizer, OR USA Wed 11/23/2005
Mona Winks Definitely
I have to second Mona Winks. It is great. It is written in a fun, easy to read way. The description of the Sistine Chapel is a must! My teenage children loved it too. My daughter even used it as a reference when she had to write a paper in school. THANKS RICK!!!!
t. <email>
Dallas, TX USA Tue 11/22/2005
Eyewitness Travel Books
I love the eyewitness top ten books. There is one for each city instead of buying a book for a whole country. This books are small, compact yet full of information plus they have wonderful pull out maps. They give recomendations for every budget from were to eat and sleep and what to see. For just a couple days in a city these are great so you don't miss something. For a longer stay and more indepth coverage definetly pick up a rick steves book.
canada Mon 11/21/2005
Mona Winks - MUST HAVE
Mona Winks had the best information about each place we went...from Versaille to Louvre to Sistine Chapel, etc
Courtney Crane
Edmond, OK USA Sun 11/20/2005
Books on Venice, Italy
If anyone is planning more than a couple of days in Venice, suggest you get a copy of the book "Venice - 30 Walks to explore the city" by Paolo Giordani. Picked up a copy at a bookstore near St. Mark's. Takes you around familiar areas and off the beaten path, street by street, and points out buildings, signs on buildings, etc. that you might never see. Gets you away from the crowds, goes into great detail on history, and really made our trip extra special.
Sandra Zeoli <email>
Fair Lawn, NJ USA Sun 11/13/2005
Write Your Own!
I always have a blank book along! I keep journals of my trips as I go. I've also written novels while traveling. But I also recommend Traveler's Tales Publishing Company. They have the best collection. I also travel with whatever DAVID HATCHER CHILDRESS 'Lost Cities' series volume applies to the region I'm traveling through.
WALTER BOSLEY <email>
RANCHO MIRAGE, CA USA Thu 11/10/2005
England - historical fiction
If you're planning a trip to England, check out any of Phillipa Gregory's books for a fascinating look at the reign of Henry VIII and beyond. I've read The Other Boleyn Girl, The Queen's Fool and the Virgin's Lover. She writes great historical fiction that brings the history of that period to life and will definitely add to your enjoyment of the churches, abbeys, museums, castles and other sights in and around London.
CO USA Tue 11/08/2005
for France and Prague
Edmund White, The Flaneur; Balzac, About Catherine de Medici; Kundera, The Unbearable Lightness of Being (the book is much better than the movie).
Fiona
NYC, Fri 11/04/2005
Scotland
I definitely think that the mysteries written by Ian Rankin should be added to recommended reading for a Scotland trip. I just finished RESURRECTION MEN and loved it, and it made me want to visit this country.
Susan
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 10/25/2005
Medieval England
If you're checking out anything medieval in England, read "The Mists of Avalon" by Marion Zimmer Bradley. It's a re-telling of the Arthurian legend from a female perspective. It made a lot of places I went quite a bit more moving. You won't want to visit the Glastonbury Tor without reading it!
Janell
Portland, OR USA Fri 10/21/2005
Venice
Venice-goers: Be sure to read John Berendt's new book, "The City of Falling Angels," before visiting Italy's loveliest city. It will add so much depth and understanding to your travels there. Berendt is also the author of Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil, the only book to ever be on the NY Times bestseller list for three years. Don't miss his latest about Venice
Beth Hill
Seal Beach, CA USA Fri 10/14/2005
Rick's books are The Best
Rick's books are the best! Not only are they informative but they opened doors to conversations and contacts in many places I went on my recent European trip. At a gift shop in Bacharach, Germany, the owner recognized the Germany/Austria book, knows Rick, and gave me a 10% discount on my entire purchase--without my even knowing I could get it! On the Rhine Cruise there was another couple who had their book, leading to a great conversation about our travel experiences. In a Munich weinstube two ladies at a nearby table noticed it, and we had a great discussion on the beauty of German scenery (they were from Hamburg). And in Bacharach (again), a passing couple from Chicago saw my copy, and we ended up discussing the best sights in Paris, Munich, and Berlin. So make sure you carry your Rick Steves' guides because they can bring you more than just travel info.
Richard <email>
AK USA Mon 10/10/2005
Excellent travel writer
I definitely recommend Robert D. Kaplan's books as a good travel companion. You will find him either in the travel section or the history section at the book stores. He is a travel writer/political & social scientist/history writer. I've read "Eastward to Tartary : Travels in the Balkans, the Middle East, and the Caucasus" and "The Coming Anarchy: Shattering the Dreams of the Post Cold War." I'm going to read "The Ends of the Earth : From Togo to Turkmenistan, from Iran to Cambodia, a Journey to the Frontiers of Anarchy" by Kaplan on my upcoming trip to Prague.
Lynn
North Yorkshire, England UK Mon 10/10/2005
Travel and Books
Guidebooks aside, I like to take a novel on a trip. It need not be about the specific area that I am visiting. What the novel needs to do is put me in an open frame of mind about places and their history.
Michener is still my favorite. I read Iberia when I was stationed in Wuerzburg. Then took Centennial on a return visit to Germany. At various places I have read most of his books. Cracking a cover is like boarding plane.
We are planning a trip to Germany this next year. Maybe it is time to re-read Tales of the South Pacific
Gary <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA Thu 10/06/2005
Rick's books are best!
We just got back from a 2 week trip motorcycling through the Czech Republic, Austria and Germany. Our goal was to see some of the touristy things (Prague, Munich, etc.) but also to see the small towns, the places where people are themselves, not trying to cater to hoardes of tourists.
We used Rick's books exclusively. The reason is that he cuts through the chatter and tells you what to see and why. This is versus the "other books" like Michelin where you get an extensive list of hotels and restaurants and choices of what to see. While the information is extensive and up to date, how do you figure out what to do? Too many options!
As an example, we knew we wanted to see the touristy area of Prague but mainly the real Czech Republic -- the picturesque small towns with real people living real lives. All we needed to do was to open Rick's book up and read about these small towns. Within an hour we were able to identify the towns we wanted to see (some had less than 4,000 population) target a pension or hotel that he recommended and eat at a restaurant that he felt was good.
In the small town of Telc we stayed at one of Rick's recommended pensions. The next morning I awoke hearing school children walking to school, chattering to each other just like in the USA. Ahhhh.... just the experience I was looking for....
Also don't be afraid to show the book when finding a room. In Hallstatt, Austria we were quoted E100 per night per person (in a 5 bedroom apartment)but when we asked about single rooms and showed Rick's book the price dropped to E35 per night.
Gael
Charlotte, NC USA Tue 10/04/2005
Rick Steves guides
We just returned from 2 weeks touring via car in Italy. The 2005 guide was wonderful -- many helpful hints. However, the Italian phrase book was a nearly total waste. When looking for specific words, we only found one in 30.
Jackie
Shoreview, MN USA Sun 09/25/2005
Interesting Series
I have recently discovered a series of alternative history books published by Baen Publishing. They are titled by year, 1632, 1633, and 1634 are the current titles.
I am suggesting them because they are set in Europe, the first two primarily in Western Europe (Germany and the Netherlands mostly), but the last one is almost totally in Venice, Italy. After reading them I wanted so dearly to pick up my passport and fly off to Magdeburg, Venice, London, and Amsterdam. These books encompass not only the time and place, but politics (like Tom Clancy, but not as intense), romance, and a thought provoking look at what has gone into shaping the Modern American. You may be surprised.
You can go to www.baen.com and download the first two books, and many more, for free. Yes, free. They firmly believe in the freedom of ideas. You can also go to their message boards to read more about the authors, books, and the worlds that they have created.
Kimberly <email>
Birmingham, AL USA Fri 09/23/2005
Rick Steve's Guide books
My husband and I just returned from a month travel thru northern europe. During our travels we used Rick's Ireland, Scandanavian, and Amsterdam guide books, which really helped us to plan our site visits better. When arrived in London, we had no guidebook! We set out on the hop on hop off bus and along found one of the recommended (by Rick) book stores and purchased the only Rick London guide. This made London much easier.
Rick gave great advice on thing to do and see, well written self guided walks, and good pubs and places to stay.
Thanks Rick
Jenni Cowsert <email>
Olympia, Wa USA Mon 09/19/2005
Paris 2005
We just got back from our 7 days Paris vacation and used nothing but Ricks Paris 2005 guide book and our hotels complimentary map and that was all we needed. Using the information about site hours, cost, etc. saved us alot of time and money. The self guided tours and walks were great too, you can get more detailed books on specific sites if you have time but the information in Ricks book is plenty for the casual tourist such as us. Thank You Rick and staff for making a very nice trip even nicer..
Marty <email>
Everett, Wa USA Thu 09/15/2005
Guidebooks
In preparation for a recent trip to London I looked at many guidebooks, and decided to take Rick's and the National Geographic. The two turned out to be perfectly complementary. Rick's is everything the NG isn't, and the NG is everything Rick's isn't. We quickly got the hang of which to consult for any given bit of information. Everything we wanted to know was in one or the other.
Brooke Jennings
Salt Lake City, Utah USA Thu 09/15/2005
Birth of Venus
I read The Birth of Venus AFTER I returned from Italy and found myself wondering what it would be like to live in 15th century Florence. Although this book is fiction, I understand the author did a great deal of research before writing the book - very authentic; I can picture myself standing in many of the areas she describes (no spoilers, but lots of true to life characters!). This would be a good read prior to and on the plane en route to Florence! Perhaps for women only, though...
Kim
Ottawa, Canada Sat 09/10/2005
Hungary
If you are visiting Budapest, a great book to get you ready is "The Bridge at Andau" by James Michener. Based on his interviews with hundreds of refugees, it details the 1956 revolution and mentions many of the street names and sites you'll be visiting. This is a must read if you happen to be on a Rick Steve's tour, since you'll be visiting the labor camp mentioned in the book, Recsk. It's a thin paperback that can easily tuck into your bag; I got a used copy on Amazon for only 99 cents.
Also, a good movie to rent is called "An American Rhapsody". It's a true story about a family who escaped Budapest during the fifties and had to leave their baby daughter behind.
Donna <email>
USA Sat 09/10/2005
Rick Steves Great Britain is excellent, but I highly reccommend bringing a blank journal that you write in every night. This ended up being my greatest souviner, and a way that I will always remember my wonderful times in Europe.
Sara
Chicago, IL USA Wed 09/07/2005
Books for the Journey
After reading Rick's August news about the Romany(gypsies-a derogatory term, by the way), I wish to recommend a wonderful recent book, FIRES IN THE DARK,by Louise Dougherty. It is a novel about the Romany in Eastern Europe from 1927 to 1945 including experiences in the concentration camps. This book has received excellent reviews and it now is available in a trade paperback. The author's ancestors are Romany so she had a very personal interest in the subject.
Jean <email>
Ft. Collins, CO USA Sun 08/14/2005
A DIFFERENT KIND OF TRAVEL GUIDE BOOK
A DIFFERENT KIND OF TRAVEL GUIDE BOOK
While surfing today I came across a new series of guide books which I hadn’t heard of. Its called DUMMIES TRAVEL PAPERBACK. I found Italy for Dummies ($15.39) and it sounds good to me.
Among the useful features on this webpage, you will find the table of contents which includes such unusual categories as the “Best museums, hotel, restaurants, churches and ruins.” The Amazon webpage lists the used version for sale at $10.50.
You will also find books for Germany, Ireland, France and other areas. I am going to Borders today just to browse through a copy to see if it meets my needs.
You can find it at: www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0764573861/qid%3D1122680907/sr%3D1-15/ref%3Dsr%5F1%5F15/102-0708550-9556129?v=glance&s=books
TX USA Sat 08/13/2005
Venice and Ancient Rome
Have really enjoyed the series of books about Venice by Donna Leon, and the series about Marcus Didius Falco in ancient Rome by Lindsey Davis.
Hille
Neenah, WI USA Fri 08/12/2005
hesse
I'd like to recommend herman hesse. In many novels he speaks of germany and switzerland, his homelands. Also his books are very spiritual and fairly easy reading. Like travel his novels can be very deep and they certainly both lead to introspection. Heminway is great for spain and italy. And if I ever made to Russia I don't know where I would start.
matt
little compton, ri USA Wed 08/10/2005
The Etruscan
Regarding the novel The Etruscan
mentioned on this site by Mary Jane Cryan. The correct URL is www.theetruscan.com
The book is available through several
online bookstores, mainly the British amazon www.amazon.co.uk
The website "www.theetruscan.com "carries not only a list of US bookstores where the book may be ordered, but also travel information about the Etruscan zones of Italy
Linda Lappin
Rome, Italy Mon 08/08/2005
Re:Ireland
Hello everyone,
I went to Ireland to visit my boyfriend's family back in January. He's originally from Portmarnock (a suburb in Dublin)and has been living here in new york for the past ten years. Anyway I really enjoyed reading James Joyce's Dubliners. We walked down a lot of streets that were mentioned in the book such as Grafton and O'Connell street.
Here's a tip. Make as many friends as you can from different parts of the world because when you visit and stay with their families you become immersed in the culture, know which spots to go to, and feel like a local!!!
Lauren
Lauren Cappell <email>
Staten Island, NY USA Sun 08/07/2005
A must read before Eastern Europe
Before heading to East Central Europe (Poland, Hungary, Slovenia & Croatia), I strongly recommend reading "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova. It's a riveting story and makes the places come alive.
MK Glubka <email>
Winona, MN USA Sat 08/06/2005
going to Scotland?
The Hamish Macbeth mysteries by M.C. Beaton are a must read if you're going to Scotland. I've read the entire series and enjoy each book and look forward to the next.
Susan
USA Thu 08/04/2005
Etruscan area novel
"The Etruscan" set in the Viterbo area of Lazio, will make the mysterious Etruscans come alive. A must read for visitors to the Viterbo area . Author Linda Lappin lives in Vitorchiano a hill top town north of Rome www.theetruscan.it
Mary Jane <email>
USA Thu 08/04/2005
Eastern Europe or Holland
If you plan to visit Eastern Europe or Holland, read God's Smuggler, the story of a young Dutch factory worker named Brother Andrew and his work smuggling bibles behind the "Iron Curtain" during the 50's and 60's.
Donna Doornik <email>
Salinas, CA USA Sat 07/30/2005
I recommend the trilogy starting with "The Olive Farm" by Carol Drinkwater (who, incidentally, starred as Helen Herriot in the BBC All Creatures Great and Small series). It is a fascinating depiction of her move to a small town near Cannes in the South of France with her French lover Michel. The two of them fall in love with an abandoned olive farm and villa and decide to buy the place and make it a running farm again. I found the book really brought the area, and the people, to life. Occasionally veered into what I considered somewhat overlong descriptions of olive harvesting and the history of the olive, but generally a wonderful read, which will really whet your appetite for the area.
Liz
Hyattsville, MD USA Thu 07/28/2005
Yann Martel
I like to read books about characters from foreign lands different than the one I'm visiting. They ad an extra element of intrigue and romance to the place I'm visiting. During my trip through Spain last year, I thoroughly enjoyed "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel.
Chicago, IL USA Wed 07/27/2005
Lisa, try Rick Steves
3-in-1 French, Italian, German Phrase Book $9.95
By Rick Steves: Fourth edition, 327 pages
The Rick Steves European language books are funny and have everything you need. Also easy to carry.
Henry
Baltimore, Maryland USA Wed 07/27/2005
multilingual dictionary?
Can anyone recommend a basic vocabulary/menu guide for travel? I am looking for german/french. I would like something compact to take with us.
Lisa
Chicago, IL USA Thu 07/21/2005
Ancient Rome Comes to Life!
Great historical fiction on ancient Rome is found in Colleen McCollough's epic volume "The First Man in Rome". The author's scholarship is impeccable and extensive. Combine that with characters brought compellingly to life...this book is hard to stop reading...and you'll feel yourself to be right in the midst of the Roman world brought brilliantly to life by a master on the subject. Fanatastic! The only drawback would be the heft of the tome (@1,000 pages!) but still packable in paperback.
Jennifer <email>
Longmont, CO USA Tue 07/12/2005
Michaelangelo book
Trisa, an employee at Rick's store here in Edmonds recommended "Michaelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling" to me just the other day. She said to read it before going to Italy and it will make seeing it that much better!
Erika
Edmonds, WA USA Mon 07/11/2005
Travel Books of course
I always like to read books about the places I'm visiting. I've enjoyed: "Michelangelo and the Pope's ceiling" by Ross King, "A Walk Across France" by Miles Morland, and basically any travel books. It's a personal preference, but books are ten times more interesting when you've been to the place involved or are going there.
Trista
Minneapolis, MN USA Fri 07/08/2005
Seasons in Basilicata
I agree witha previous comment that "Seasons in Basilicata" is a wonderful book,especially for anyone traveling to So.Italy,or for anyone who has done the Rick Steves So.Italy and Sicily Tour-(Awesome Tour).It is by David Yeadon-great author-also his book the "Way Of The Wanderer is good-"For those of us who see travel as an escape,David Yeadon offers a profound corrective.He regards it as a transcendent insight into the spirit of life itself".-(book praise-)Enjoy,I did!!
Jeanne Ferrari-Amas <email>
Lihue, Hi USA Wed 07/06/2005
Italy/Germany Nonfiction prep Books
Bruneleschi's Dome if you are visiting Florence, Michelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling if Rome is part of your itinereray! Great nonfiction stories about how the great art was done. And don't forget to watch the PBS miniseries on the Medici before going to Florence.
For Germany, if World War II history is interesting, "Night" is a must, as is "Hitler's Willing Executioners". I also read a Short History of Germany.
Other German reading, the Niebelungenlied if you are interested in Wagner or the Rhine and Germany tales. Grimm Brothers (read the original stories if you can) for the fairy tale road. I'm currently reading a history of the Reformation and the Christian Church in prep for a trip that will have me in Wittenburg on Reformationstag.
Julie Holm <email>
Vienna, VA USA Tue 07/05/2005
Books
I like to travel very light. I loaded audiobooks onto my Ipod. Light ones such as those by Sedaris and McCall-Smith as well as a few more serious ones, such as "The World is Flat". Could listen to them on the plane, in the hotel, on the bus or whenever I wanted to escape. Also had the added luxury of all my tunes too.
Kristie
San Diego, CA USA Mon 07/04/2005
Northern Italy
I just finished reading "A Thread of Grace" by Mary Doria Russell, and now I wish I could return to Italy! It's a novel about Jewish refugees and the Italian Jewish and Catholic partisans who defended northern Italy during WWII. I learned a lot, both about history and the Italian people. Great book!
Kathy
Seattle, WA USA Fri 07/01/2005
must read for Ireland
If you like humor a la Bill Bryson, try Pete McCarthy's books, especially McCarthy's Bar. Don't read it on the plane....Laughing hard and long doesn't work when you are penned up at 35,000 feet.
beth
nw florida, fl USA Thu 06/30/2005
Reading for Ireland
Before heading to Ireland, try out "Last of the Donkey Pilgrims" by Kevin O'Hara, and "A Celtic Childhood," by somebody I can't remember (and I sent it to my mom, so I can't look it up), for a reasonably current -- and in both cases quite humorous and touching -- autobiographical look at Irish culture. For the more ancient history, read Morgan Llywelyn's novels, such as "The Horse Goddess" (not set in Ireland, but a look at Celtic culture before it made its way to Ireland), "Bard," and "Red Branch" (just a few of her many good books). For a look at Ireland during the European Renaissance, once again Morgan Llywelyn's "Grania" is wonderful; and she wrote a series of 20th-century historical novels with the famous dates being the titles, so look for "1916," "1921," and "1949" for good characters and an incredible perspective on the history.
My favorite pre-Ireland reading, though, was the extensive journal I kept during my first trip there. I still think the best Book for the Journey is the blank one you fill yourself with your own words and all the ephemera which comes your way: concert tickets, railpasses, business cards, postcards, photographs, pressed flowers, etc. When I get home from a trip, I like to spend the first couple of weeks completing my trip journal, before getting together with anybody to talk about my trip (so I don't talk it out before it's on paper); each night on the trip I spend just a few minutes writing a brief outline of what I want to remember from that day, then when I get home, anything I haven't had time go write in my journal during the trip finds its way in. THEN I start going to lunch with friends to tell stories and hand out souveniers!
Lori Louise Michalos <email>
Santa Rosa, CA USA Tue 06/14/2005
My recommendation is not a book
Although technically not a book, I highly recommend anyone visiting London to get The London Mapguide by Michael Middleditch. It is hands down the best complete street map guide & more. After a dozen trips to London it is still the first thing I pack and the one thing I use daily while there. It's available at overstock.com and there is also one for Paris, New York City, Amsterdam and St. Albans
Sue
Stratford, CT USA Mon 06/13/2005
Get city specific with Rick Steves
Of course I got other guidebooks just to have variety but no other book brings as much name recognition or discounts as when you mention you got a place's name from Rick Steves. "We always like having Rick Steves readers stay with us" and mysterious discounts if you leave his guidebook on the table- trust me, get the Best of and City guides- they pay for themselves before you leave!
Liz <email>
Memphis, TN USA Mon 06/13/2005
RS Paris 2005 book
Rick's Paris 2005 took my husband, two teenagers and myself through a terrific one week Spring break trip in March. What a great trip--no one wanted to leave!
Mary
Madison, MS USA Mon 06/06/2005
Top Ten DK Guides are actually good...
I found a book I love...surprisingly. I usually hate the DK or Knopff books because they are slick, pretty, and lack all substance. Well, I was in Borders and found "Top Ten Vienna". Turns out their "Top Ten" City guides are the exception. They still are not what you need if it is your first run through a city. But if you want more suggestions to delve deeper into a city than your first 3 day run, this book is fun and helpful. It was good for children's suggestions too. Sadly, I had wasted hours researching what to do with a 2 year old in Vienna. They had like 6 of my final decisions in their Top Ten things for children list. Go figure. Their maps are decent too. They are not Rick black and white. I hate his little maps. Anyways, if you too always pass over anything DK, give the Top ten titles a fighting chance.
Jayme Stoeckl <email>
Plano, TX USA Sat 06/04/2005
other books better
I am sorry to report that Rick Steves is NOT the best guidebook available. While I appreciate what he has doen for the travel industry, the books are simply inadequate guides for anyone whishing to explore a destination in-depth. The maps are notoriously unhelpful, frustratingly vague, and at times simply inaccurate (don't get me started on Venice). He does not provide the essential information on publish transportation (just try to get to the catacomb's in rome based on his book alone -- seriously) nor does really appear to update his books as often as he says he does. Rick Steves is a wonderful guide for recommending restaurants, lodgind, etc., but for anything else his is a read-before-you-go guide that is best left at home. His cavalier approach to history is insulting to anyone wanting something more than an tongue-in-cheek, dumbed-down narrative of history. Lonely Planet guides, while not perfect, are much, much better for practical, easy to find information and reliable maps.
casper
Philadelphia, PA USA Fri 06/03/2005
NAVIGATING ROME
Just returned from a busy week in Rome and found my compass from ETBD a life saver many times. Also, the maps in Ricks books are good, but the best detail is on the public bus map from ATAC, the local bus system in Rome. You can download this from the web at atac.roma.it. The file is in PDF format. Blow it up to 200% and you've got everything you need including streets, bus routes, the works. It's perfect.
Dave H. <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Tue 05/31/2005
Kudos to Rick!
I can't say enough about Rick Steves' guidebooks. I took his Paris guidebook during my five day trip to Paris and it was literally my bible. The level of detail is amazing, from the museum guides to hotel and restaurant recommendations to off-the-beaten path treasures, way to go Rick Steves!!
Roxanne <email>
Santa Monica, CA USA Sat 05/28/2005
Southern Italy--Basilicata
Seasons in Basilicata by David Yeadon (A year in a southern Italian hill village. Also, Christ Stopped at Eboli by Carlo Levi
USA Sun 05/22/2005
Computer class
I really like Rick's books!
Brooke
USA Tue 05/17/2005
Polly knows France
I agree with Stephen's recommendation of "Savior Flair" by Polly Platt.
Her first book "French or Foe?" is excellent also - goes into a bit more detail. Both are knowledgable and amusing descriptions of the French psyche and culture. I love them. Everyone going to France should read either of these first.
Save yourself many misunderstandings and grief -- and have more fun!
BG
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 05/16/2005
Great books
A great book to read before/during a trip to Europe is Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth. It is about building a cathedral in Medieval Europe. There's a little bit of everything in it--sex, violence, intrigue and a whole lot of great reading!
Kathy Conley <email>
Salem, OR USA Fri 05/13/2005
Italy reading readiness
I enjoy a good fiction book of the area I'm planning to travel to get me in the mood, and teach me someting about the locale I will be visiting. This year it's Italy, and these are some of my picks: Pompeii, (story of an engineer in charge of the acqueduct system, leading up to the eruption) - A Voice in the Wind (story of a Christian slave girl in Rome), - Angels and Demons (Rome) and this one sounds interesting...I'm still on the wait list for it; The Villa Mysteries, by David Hewson. Happy travels!
Tish Johnson <email>
Fountain Valley, CA USA Fri 05/13/2005
Wonderful tiny museum
Great Britain guide book
London was fabulous! And rick?s book is wonderful. I think he should add the royal London hospital museum to his guide, though. Its in white chapel and less than a block from the tube. But inside you will not only see the history of medicine at the hospital and in Europe, but you will see some crazy looking instruments (yikes! Did they really do some of that stuff?), personal effects of both Florence nightingale and joseph merrick ( known to most as the elephant man) and the actual letter titled From Hell written by Jack the Ripper. This small museum only takes a bit of time, but is well worth it. Its free and the gift shop there supports the hospital charity.
denise weide <email>
seattle, wa USA Fri 05/06/2005
Visiting France
I must highly recommend Polly Platt's Savoir Flair. I've been to France 4 times, and I wish I'd read her book before my first visit (which would have been impossible, because it pre-dated the book, but I wish that I then had had the wisdom and knowledge which she shares. This is really a must read.
Stephen Bach <email>
charlottesville, VA USA Fri 04/29/2005
Paris In A Basket
Paris In A Basket - This book can really get you in the mood to go to Paris and eat nothing in restaurants; only from the street markets. Got it out of our public library. It also gives a really good overview of the composition of the different arrondisements. Enjoy!
Joel
Chicago, IL USA Fri 04/22/2005
Website for the Journey in Britain
If you will be travelling to the Uk, then check the following Website for descriptions of various British towns. Yes, I know, they focus on negative aspects, but it does provide another viewpoint on what you may experience while travelling.http://www.craptowns.com/html/frontsection/craptowns/craptown16.htm
Jake Stewart <email>
Bethesda, MD USA Thu 04/21/2005
Rick's Italian Dictionary
I'm headed to Rome for the fourth time next month and decided I needed a current Italian dictionary to help bolster my communication skills. I bought Rick's dictionary and found it a riot to read. I broke out laughing in the middle of my office. Along with the typical phrases, si, no, and uno litro di vino bianco, I now know how to call someone in Italian a bastard, and stick it up your ___. Rick man, get a grip. You've turned into a comic writer. I can now say I'm totally prepared for the "backdoor experience". I love it....
Dave <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 04/16/2005
good read for England
Bill Bryson's Notes from a Small Island...humorist and travel writer takes a last "spin" around England as he prepares to end a summer vacation to Europe and the UK that turned into a 20 year stay. Insightful, funny, entertaining.
beth <email>
nw florida, fl USA Wed 04/13/2005
Books for the Journey
"The Broker" by John Grisham is set mostly in Bologna, Italy, and is very evocative and "atmospheric." But the big bonus is the Italian language lessons woven into the suspenseful plot. Also, some historical tidbits that might be mostly accurate. This would be a good book to read on the plane - especially after it's available as a paperback.
J.D.
Oahu, HI USA Sun 04/10/2005
Polly Platt
Ann from Illinois, my southern neighbor, thanks for the heads up. I just now requested Savoir Flair from the library. Thanks.
June
Milwaukee, WI USA Mon 04/04/2005
Polly Platt
June in Wisconsin, There is another book by Ms Platt, Savoir Flair, that is a yellow brick road through the cultural back roads of France. It derives her executive lecture series. For information, "qeue" is queue as in faire la queue--to stand in line
Anne Chilton
Urbana, IL USA Sun 04/03/2005
Life in a Medieval Castle by joseph and Frances Gies is a terrific and thorough 101 on castles and architecture.Also, Lindsay Davis's Marcus Falco mysteries, set in ancient Rome and Londinium are enjoyable and good to read on the plane if you like mysteries. Set in Rome :One for the lions.the Hand in the Fountain,Ode to a Banker,Iron Hand of Mars,et al or London,if you're intersested in its Roman occupation era (The jupiter myth,A body in the bath house)
<email>
USA Sat 04/02/2005
Read Polly Platt prior to France
Loved Polly Platt's French or Foe. It was really helpful in allowing me not to take anything personal, being a soft, un-aggressive mid-westerner, and our family was able to maintain the qeue (sp?)so no one could cut in line. The French really are some of the most civilized indiduals in the world.
June
Milwaukee, WI USA Thu 03/31/2005
James Michner
You're right about him. In addition he has some other books that are fun when traveling. Years ago I read The Drifters by him, a '60s type novel, about young people traveling all over Europe. Also "The Source" was a great book for getting a bigger picture of the Mid-East.
Kelly Buchanan <email>
Seattle, wa USA Wed 03/16/2005
Books for Spain
James Michner's "Iberia" is a must. Also, Ernest Hemingway's "Death in the Afternoon" and "The Sun Also Rises." Michner's gives you the soul of Spain while Hemingway gives you a slice of life. Enjoy! Visit my travels at: http://www.picturetrail.com/bircher
Sam Antonio
San Diego, CA USA Tue 03/15/2005
Scottish Historical Novels
Nigel Tranter is a great writer of Scottish Historical Novels. A friend of mine from Scotland introduced me to his books. He has a great one "The Bruce Trilogy" which is a long read about Robert the Bruce but is very entertaining. Also has novels on William Wallace, etc,etc. Great books. I have many of them now.
Kelly Buchanan <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 03/15/2005
France -- Our Oldest Enemy
I had to laugh when this book by John Miller and Mark Molesky was suggested as reading material. First, it amazes me that, despite the concentration on the American Revolution in U-S history courses, American students still can't figure out that France wasn't exactly acting because they were trying to help establish another sister republic! For a student of history, it's an excellent review of French foreign policy over the past 300 years. But it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that the French government would act in the interests of the French people. To use this book to try to formulate an idea of how French people, in general, think about American visitors to their country, would be a serious mistake.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 03/03/2005
Early Irish History
For anyone going to Ireland, I'd like to recommend "In Search of Ancient Ireland: From Neolithic Times to the Coming of the English" by Carmel McCaffrey, Leo Eaton. It is an easy to read history book with a companion DVD. They give a good foundation of Ireland's history and you will get the most thrills for your money from traveling the Irish countryside after reading it. The book and DVD helped me ressurect many stone forts and churches on a recent trip. I was pretty comfortable with recent Irish history but not ancient Irish history. Enjoy!
JSGoldsberry <email>
Jackson, MS USA Tue 02/22/2005
Scottish Highlands
I highly recommend M.C. Beaton's "Death of ..." series of mysteries for anyone planning a trip to northern Scotland. Great atmosphere and wonderful characters, especially Constable Hamish Macbeth.
Ann Foreman <email>
columbus, oh USA Mon 02/21/2005
Italy
There is a great book autobiography by Eric Newby, called LOVE AND WAR IN THE APPENINES, or in previous editions WHEN THE SNOW COMES THEY WILL TAKE YOU AWAY. It is about his wanderings throughout central Italy after his escape from an Italian prison camp in WWII. His interactions with the locals are honest and hysterical.
James <email>
Middletown, CT USA Wed 02/16/2005
London
If you're in London for a long time, or a fast or voracious reader, I recommend William Manchester's "The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill: Visions of Glory 1874-1932". Manchester's a great writer, and the passages about Victorian and Edwardian London bring the city to life.
PeterM <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Mon 02/14/2005
Some Great Books on Spain
The New Spaniards by John Hooper is a great companion for learning some of the lesser known cultural ticks of post-Franco Spain. Everything from gambling, government, and thoughts on art and sex are covered. Also for anybody looking to attend a bullfight: Barnaby Conrad's Fiesta Brava, and Hemingway's Death in the Afternoon and the Dangerous Summer are must reads if you intend on completely understanding the tragedy and beauty of a corrida.
Jose <email>
San Bernardino, ca USA Fri 02/11/2005
Great Read for England
Before my first visit to England I read "London" by Edward Rutherfurd. This historical novel colorfully unites London's history from prehistoric man to modern times with interesting fictional characters whose ancestors intertwine from one generation to the next. For an American with little background in Brittish history, "London" helped make some sense out of where the Romans, Shakespeare, London Bridge, etc. all fit into the puzzle of such a rich history. The work is very well researched and full of romance, adventure, and intrigue. Give yourself plenty of time, though, it is a long read.
Lise <email>
Orlando, FL USA Fri 02/11/2005
Southern Italian setting
The book, I'm Not Scared by Niccolo Ammaniti, is translated from Italian. It's set in a tiny town in southern Italy surrounded by wheat fields. It's a fabulous coming of age book. There's also an Italian movie of the story, now on DVD. The movie is a pretty good representation of the book.
Carrie <email>
Torrance, CA USA Sun 02/06/2005
Led by Destiny
Hitchhiking around the world - Kinga & Chopin's book about not just their amazing journey that took several years, but mostly... about following your dreams. It makes you believe that EVERYTHING is possible!
www.ledbydestiny.com
Aki
USA Sun 02/06/2005
Books on Russian History
To Colleen: I am just finishing up a
book of historical fiction by Randall Wallace, "Love and Honor." It is about a young man sent to Russia by Benjamin Franklin to convince Catherine the Great not to send troops to help the British invade the American colonies (shortly before the American Revolution). This is fiction, so I'm not sure how accurate it is, but it does describe some great Russian scenery and history. A very good read to get one in the mood to study Russian (and American) history. R. Wallace also wrote "Braveheart" (along with the screenplay). Other feature films: We were soldiers, Pearl Harbor, and The Man in the Iron Mask. I'm looking forward to reading more of his books.
Ann
IN USA Sat 02/05/2005
France
If you're planning a trip to France, I suggest Our Oldest Enemy by John Miller and Mark Molesky. France launched attacks against Americans as far back as 1704. The first foreign subversive was Genet. During World War II the French fired on American and British troops invading North Africa, the first step towards France's liberation. Our recent problems with France are nothing new.
leslein <email>
Alexandria, VA USA Sat 02/05/2005
Spain and Rome
Spain: "I, Juan de Pareja," by Elizabeth Bourton de Trevino, is actually a children's historical novel, but the fabulous writing pulls you in. It is the story of Velazquez' (real) slave and really brings his paintings to life. The book includes descriptions of their travels in Spain and Italy. The Velazquez portrait of the real Juan de Pareja hangs in the Met in New York.
Rome: "The Pope's Elephant," by Silvio Bedini, is an intriguing non-fiction work about the animal given to Pope Leo X in 1514. It has very specific descriptions of various sites in Rome, breathing life into the old stones. Throughout the Vatican, there are many reminders of the elephant that you can track down from the book.
Angela <email>
Sammamish, WA USA Wed 02/02/2005
Italia
Yes, The Agony and the Ecstasy was outstanding. I read it 3 times and this book changed my second and third trips to Italy. To know Michelangelo helps to appreciate his genius. ALL of the books on the reading list are wonderful. Currently, I am reading "The Italians". I have laughed so hard that my gut may split. Go Rick!
Phyllis Strock <email>
redmond, wa USA Fri 01/21/2005
It would put a smile on your face!
I stongly suggst the book, "Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe -- by Bill Bryson", to anyone wanting to/or already had traveled in Europe.
Howard <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Thu 01/20/2005
Book about the Cinque Terre
Just finished an excellent book about the Liguria region of Italy (i.e. Cinque Terre areas)called Extra Virgin. It's the true story of the trials and tribulations of two English sisters who travel there for a temporary job and end up staying....forever apparently! Loved it! Author's name is Annie Hawes. Definitely check it out if that area is in your travel plans....
Renee
CO USA Sun 01/16/2005
The Road Within by O'Reilly
I Loved this book! It is a collection of stories from travelers who were transformed by their journey. The trip out into the world ultimately is a venture into the hidden territories of the human spirit and heart. It has wonderful stories by notable authors of lessons learned and spiritual blessings bestowed by that great teacher: travel.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Sun 01/09/2005