Paul Franklin

When I travel, I always look for this Top 10 series. The format of these books perfectly suits my personality. I love lists. This travel guide effectively utilizes a variety of lists to great effect. The book builds on a foundational Top 10 list, which is the top ten attractions in a particular city (in this case, three particular cities). From there, it breaks down each attraction into its best ten features, along with pertinent information like address and admission costs. Following this information is a series of top ten lists in such areas as foods, museums, outdoor activities, and other focuses that interest travelers. After that is a second main section, where it breaks down the city into areas, and offers a series of top ten lists in different categories for those areas. Finally, the third main section of the book gives top ten lists for practical details such as travel safety and hotels. The book also comes equipped with maps on the front and back inside covers, and a portable map to take out for easy access while walking around the city. Although all the information is constrained by the list format, I find the books provide everything I need to know about a new area, and the lists actually make it much easier to find the information I want. Also, I have used this DK series for numerous vacations now, and am always satisfied with their recommendations after I try them. I highly recommend picking up a book in the Top 10 series during the planning stages of your trip. The only down side is that they're not available for every location.… (mer)