Travel Books

Travel books provide extensive knowledge on all things related to travel. For those traveling with children, there are hundreds of titles specially written for planning a trip with the kids. Also, titles focus on specific issues like single travel, gay and lesbian travel, honeymoons, adventure trips, and more. To tailor your trip to meet your needs, choose the book that is best suited for both your interests and budget, and go from there.

Many travel books will recommend places to see and stay, which is why it's important to look for the most current version of the guide to your destination--preferably one published this year. Even the most current guides will inevitably carry some outdated information, so it's important to be as up-to-date as possible. Also, look for travel books related to your interests. You can choose an art lover's guide to Paris or a music lover's guide to Vienna instead of a general interest book.

If you're not traveling but like to read about it, travel books can be a mini-vacation from cover to cover. Full of full-color photos and breathtaking sights, these kinds of books can be an escape within the confines of your own home. Travel books to special destinations like Hawaii or Spain will often be hard- or leather-bound and chock-full of helpful information and cultural stories. These luxurious, photo-rich books often make great gifts.

A Helpful Local Tip
If you read the language, purchase a travel book in the native tongue of the country you're interested in. Many times, these books will not be "dumbed down" for foreigners and will include information rarely given to outsiders. Native guides can also help you find restaurants and hotel deals typically reserved for locals.