ROMANCING THE SOUTHLAND is an exciting, attractive new book that guides the reader to the unique, unusual, & romantic, in Southern California. Unlike other history or guidebooks, it lists facts & figures that take the guesswork out of planning any weekend. It's written by Robert Badal, a bona fide authority on romantic getaways who has lectured & conducted tours throughout the Southland since 1978. He's included the best of the best in this volume. It can be read cover to cover or flipped through as you might use any guidebook. There is a categorical index that cross references entries by city &/or subject. It includes multi-cultural events such as Chinese & Persian New Years, Mexican & Indian Independence Days & Nisei Week. It also provides information on natural phenomena such as spring wildflowers & fall colors. Badal avoids the commonplace & celebrates the quirky such as "The Bridge to Nowhere." The book is arranged month by month, throughout the year, detailing concrete advice on the best time to go, where to stay, where to eat. Milestone or seasonal data is used to tell the history, natural landscape or mythology of each area. A must-have for any serious hedonist.