| Many backpackers refer to the various Lonely Planet guides as South East Asia
bibles, and indeed treat them as such. Taking just a glimpse at Lonely Planet:
Thailand , it's not difficult to understand why. Crammed into over 1000
pages is everything you could want to know about pretty much every region of
Thailand. From the southern provinces bordering on Malaysia, to the main coastal
destinations such as Phuket and Koh Samui, from the intense heat of Bangkok
to the amazing architecture around Ayutthaya and the contrasting tranquillity
of the north, the people at Lonely Planet give you as much practical information
on places to stay, eat and visit as possible. Updated regularly, the guides
try to keep abreast of the rapid development in Thailand and give you the latest,
vital information on how much you can expect to pay--particularly useful for
that first trip in a Songthaew or Tuk-tuk.
As always there is detailed information about the culture and history of
Thailand. However, for many the focus is on the practicalities of finding
accommodation and getting where you're going (once you have used the handy
maps to figure out where you are). Particularly useful are the suggested itineraries
which give an idea of what you can fit in whether you are staying for a couple
of weeks or several months. For those wanting to concentrate their stay on
the main attractions of Bangkok and Thailand's coastal regions, Lonely
Planet: Thailand's Islands and Beaches is perhaps a better bet.
However, if you fancy being a little more adventurous and seeing more of Thailand, Lonely
Planet: Thailand is certainly a good place to start.
| Reviewer: A reader from Surrey, United Kingdom |
This is an excellent guide book for those interested in all aspects of Thailand,
not just for tourists looking to have a fun fortnight on the beach. It is written
by someone who clearly understands and loves the country.
Those who complain that he refers to places where no English is spoken should
take into account that English is not spoken in most of the country. However,
I believe English is spoken widely in Blackpool and Benidorm.
Price: ~ £11.19
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