If you're thinking of taking a holiday or short break, then a travel guidebook should be an almost essential part of your planning equipment. There are a vast range to choose from, many of them aimed at a particular market; for example the 'Let's Go' series is aimed at the budget traveller, whilst Hg2 (A Hedonist's guide to ...) focuses on finding the best places to eat, drink and be merry.
City Guides
Great for those quick city breaks, these guides are designed to give you information to ensure you make the most of your trip. Successful books will include clear maps along with extensive hotel and restaurant listings at all price levels. They should also include details on the major historic sites and other places of interest, and may also feature suggested walks or itineraries.
Region Guides
These guides provide information about a particular region (for example, California or Provence). They should be armed with a number of clear maps of the region, along with practical details, such as how to get there, currency information and local laws and regulations. They should also have details on places to visit, hotels and restaurants, clubs and bars, camping and hiking, and local geography and wildlife.
Country Guides
Covering an entire country, these guides should provide the reader with a complete overview of a country, with plenty of clear maps, information about major towns and sightseeing spots, along with accommodation and wining and dining recommendations. There should also be details on how to get there, local transport information, currency details, medical information (such as vaccinations needed) and local laws and regulations.
