Neil E. Schlecht

I remembered having good luck with Ireland for Dummies a few years ago. This one also contains quite a bit of useful information, but it doesn't function as the only guide you'll need. It goes nicely in-depth with all sorts of general cultural background and history. He's very enthusiastic about much of the country, although he disapproves of bullfighting (fine with me) and exaggerates Spain's prominence in the arts. This is a very middle-class and up sort of guide, which is less surprising once you notice the partnership with Frommer's. The range for single-dollar-sign hotels goes up to $75/night and for meals up to $22. A lot of discussion of the wines, even a recommended vintage chart. His food preferences are less gourmet, however. Much recoiling from organ meats. The phrasing can be clumsy and for some reason he keeps talking about film for your camera, despite also addressing laptops and cellphones. Many warnings about how certain areas have bad weather during certain months but you have to look elsewhere for actual temperature and precipitation. No illustrations.… (mehr)