Rick Steves

Rick Steves' thought-provoking ramblings about politics and travel are well summed up by a quote from Mark Twain he includes in the last chapter, "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." Don't be narrow-minded. Read this book and consider broadening your views and expanding your tolerance. Travel and meet people you wouldn't normally meet. You don't even have to leave the country (but, if you can, you should).

Nice, casual overview of European history and art. Good review before visiting the area.

I'll be packing this along with me when I go to Scotland this fall. Really comprehensive guide to Scotland and to travelling in general. Cheap at twice the price.

We had been using this guide as a reference for our past few weeks travelling in Slovenia and Croatia and have found it to contain lots of good information. Some of the info was a bit dated regarding accommodation and as for Zadar, a huge omission of a wonderful city, but in general it has come in very useful.