2 comments about Knopf Guide: Mexico (Knopf Guides).

1. Knopf has produced a series of beautifully illustrated and informative travel guides over the years, and the recent guide they have issued on Mexico lives up to the high standards they have set. This guide combines a wealth of information on history, culture, etc. with useful travel facts, and is simply a pleasure to browse, whether or not you have plans to go to Mexico soon!



2. Packed full of useful information in a small handy guide. Is also just an interesting read.

No comments about Albuquerque & Sante Fe Street Atlas 2005-2006.

1 comments about Bicycling America's National Parks: Arizona and New Mexico: The Best Road and Trail Rides from the Grand Canyon to Carlsbad Caverns.

1. I bought this book expecting it to be a useless gimmick--especially since I've hated Alley's other mtb guide books. Lo and behold, it's a gem with a specific and useful purpose: if you're going to visit the national parks in these states and want to ride in or around them, this book is essential. I ride and my partner doesn't, and she loves National Parks, where good riding can be hard to find, so this book saved our lives--she would visit the park and I would head out to find a nearby ride. The trail and road choices are good--the treatment of trails/roads around the south rim of the Grand Canyon is the best I've found. Alley casts her net widely around the parks--anything within 60 miles or so of the park counts. Thus the "trails in and near Tuzigoot Natl Monument" is really little more than a short list of trails in Sedona, 40 minutes away. Trail info is good, background info is fascinating, and the maps are the usual. Each park or monument begins with a handy one-paragraph summary of the riding opportunities, e.g. "Near this park you have a choice of two nice road rides, one beautiful dirt road, and three challenging single-tracks." One inexplicable gaff: the book omits Canyon de Chelly, so you're on your own, but you only have two paved roads to choose from there anyway.

3 comments about Lazy Enchiladas: Redefining Success.

1. It is rare that I start a book and finish it in the same weekend, this book is that good. It is enthralling to see `what happens next' in Denny's life and loves. His adventures carry the reader through the highs and lows of his interesting life. You'll fall in love with Mexico, Marisa and making enchiladas.



2. ... and it's definitely an interesting one! I read this book fast. Denny's stories made me want to read on, and half the time I wanted to read -more- about a story, and before I knew it, Durbin was on to the next adventure! I like how the author's voice comes through; you can tell this guy is probably a good friend to have and lots of fun!



3. What is cool? What is success? "Lazy Enchiladas: Tasty Lessons on Love, Life, and Relationships" is a unique sort of self-help manual. Promoting honest evaluation, author Denny Durbin maintains that with the right soul searching, anyone can learn to be happy with their life. Through an array of memoirs, Durbin gives wisdom that teaches that average is cool, improving one's life is as easy as learning a few new recipes and learning a dance step or too. "Lazy Enchiladas" is recommended for personal Self-Help, Self-Improvement reading lists and community library reference collections.

5 comments about Mexico.

1. Usually Michener books transport the reader to another place by tracing the development of the present day culture beginning in the far distant past, pausing along the way to indtroduce various characters and situations that are skillfully woven into the overall story. MEXICO does follow this general plan but is not done nearly as well as Michener has done in other works. The first half of the story drags along, the characters do not come to life leaving the reader to decide whether to press on or abandon the effort. The second half of the story is better, characters that were just sketchily drawn earlier are filled out as the story progresses making the effort to finish worthwhile.
   
   The story is told primarily from the point of view of an American journalist with strong family ties to Mexico. He has returned to his family's Mexican home to cover a bullfighting festival. While writing his story he finds himself caught between his two worlds, that of Mexico and the United States.
   
   This is definitely not one of Michener's best efforts. The plot drags, particularly in the first half of the book. The characters do not spring to life. The 'sport' of bullfighting is depicted as so corrupt, tawdry and violent as to be a great advertisement for PETA. Unless you just have to read everything Michener ever wrote skip this one.



2. Havent had a chance to read this yet.But I like Michener's books.Thank you for sending it in good shape & in plenty of time.



3. I have read this book a long time ago, but purchased it again for my husband to read. I keep going on and on about Michener and his books that I've had the opportunity to read.
   I didn't really know all to much when I read the book, but once I was done, I sat down and thought about it. I also did more research on Mexico and it's history.
   I think that the way he writes a story and includes facts that happened during the times he writes about gives me incentive to look further and find out more about the subject. I then accept or reject some of his information, but I have always learned something new from the book.



4. Forty-five years ago, James A. Michener walked away from a novel he was writing about Mexico. He had "run out of steam" and decided that some time away from the work would be beneficial. In July of 1992, his notes and manuscripts were rediscovered. Keeping the core of his original work, Michener completed the novel that was published as "Mexico". Although not perfect, it was a very entertaining and extremely interesting 672 pages.
   
   The story involves Norman Clay, and American journalist of Mexican ancestry who has been sent to Toledo, Mexico (the fictional city of his birth), to cover the 1961 Izmiq Festival for a New York magazine. Expecting a spectacular bullfight on the third day of the festival, Clay fills his thoughts with childhood memories and a history of the city as seen from the perspective of his forebears. The landscape of Toledo, dominated by an ancient pyramid and a 16th century cathedral, provides the colorful setting for Michener's often sentimental journey into Mexico's past.
   
   "Mexico" draws the reader into a universe where time is fluid and events that happened 1400 years ago seem just as current and relevant as the contemporary Ixmiq Festival. This idea of connection is Michener's central theme. Early in the book, Clay says, "I could look nowhere without seeing the handiwork of someone in my family, stretching back for more than a thousand years, tied to the harsh red soil of Mexico." The land, its history and its people are the chords that bind life in Mexico together.
   
   Michener has created this historically based world, and filled it with characters who speak and react as real people do for a dual purpose. The technique creates an environment in which the reader can enjoy beautiful sunsets, the grandeur of a proud and ancient civilization, or the intricacies of the bull ring while Michener explores historical, sociological and human issues in an unassming and entertaining manner.
   
   The son of a Mexican mother and an American father, Norman Clay personalizes and symbolizes the ancient and ongoing struggle of opposing forces in Mexico. Clay's need to rediscover a sense of purpose and belonging in his life is an important thread that weaves through the novel.
   
   Michener's descriptions of the fictional civilization of the Drunken Builders, who constructed the pyramid at Toledo is one of the strongest parts of the book. As a result of their excessively comfortable and peaceful existence, the Drunken Builders eventually lost their connection with the things and ideas that gave value and purpose to their lives.
   
   As the Builders' culture declined, they became aware of an enemy that threatened to destroy them, and yet they did not prepare for defense. Instead, they "began to speculate on what life would be like if the invaders triumphed". When they were finally invaded by an aggressor inferior in both numbers and character, they meekly accepted the destruction of their once proud and powerful society.
   
   Michener is very skilled at bringing characters to life, that when the invaders simply walk into the city and conquer it without a struggle, the sense of tragedy, waste and foolishness is almost palpable.
   
   "Mexico", although not perfect, did strike a deep chord. Michener clearly sees and delineates the need to be in some way connected, somehow a part of something more important than ourselves. History is the backdrop on which the mosaic of life gains its value and permanence. Michener uses the past as both a tool and a foundation; his characters gain greater understanding of themselves through knowledge of the past.



5. I like Mitchener. I love Mexico and I love bullfighting. I've even written novels on the Conquest of Mexico...so why didn't I like this book?
   
   I don't even know but it didn't hold my attention and his rivalry between the "classic" matador and the bullfighting hotdog was laughable. To be certain, I hate it when the matador [killer] demeans the bull by taking liberties with the supposedly subdued animal. Tricks like touching the animals horn or kissing it on the nose are only to be deplored. A "telephono" stunt would cause most of the aficianados to lynch the [...].
   
   I found the early Mexican period unconvining...I just didn't buy it. This is, perhaps, surprising in that Michener, himself, regarded "Mexico" as his best book. Maybe it was but I don't see it that way.
   
   Ron Braithwaite author of novels--"Skull Rack" and "Hummingbird God" on the Conquest of Mexico

No comments about The 90 Day Yacht Club Guide to Ensenada.

5 comments about Mexico: Health and Safety Travel Guide.

1. Finally, an authoritative response for anyone who has suffered Montezuma's Revenge+ by two highly-respected medical doctors who have probably treated more of it than most.Dr.'s Page have undertaken an English language medical tour for those of us who have encountered the nightmare of too many tacos and other ills South of the Border. In what normally can be a maze of medical horrors for us gringos on vacation, they have investigated and simplified with easy instructions and directions good,safe medical help. This book is as necessary as packing your toothbrush for a trip. I would hope they eventually get to do a book for other countries for us Americanos.



2. The expert and collaborative work of physicians Robert and Curtis Page, Mexico: Health And Safety Travel Guide is thoroughly "user friendly" guide to English-speaking physicians and hospitals accessible to forty of the most popular vacation spots in Mexico. Enhanced with 106 maps, 60 reference charts, a symptom index, and more than 235 b/w photographs, the Mexico: Health And Safety Travel Guide also includes easy-to use indexes for pharmaceuticals and medical translations. This highly portable specialized travel guide includes invaluable tips suggestions how to carry additional medication in case of loss, avoiding and treating diarrhea, malaria prevention, wound and skin care, insect repellents, pain management, motion sickness, even a favorite cold remedy. If you are planning a vacation or business trip to Mexico, then begin your travel preparations by securing a copy of the Mexico: Health And Safety Travel Guide.



3. This is a very thorough, well-researched guide to Mexico-specific travel. I frequently travel to Baja California with church missions teams, and knowing how to get to the best hospitals and clinics (not to mention being able to identify the good v. bad ones) is a tremendous resource. Also serves as a medical field guide, should there be an absence of clinics in your immediate area (or if you need to act before emergency services would arrive...which you would have called in the numbers found through this book!). Very helpful resource.



4. If it is true that over fifty percent of travelers become ill while on vacation, then this is a guide you may want to take on your next vacation. The Mexico Health and Safety Travel Guide also includes 106 maps, 60 reference charts and 235 photographs (physicians and locations). The main chapters include:
   
   Before You Go - Medical history and emergency information as well as information on immunizations
   Safety and Security - Covers information on pharmacies and prescription drugs
   Travel Health Special Needs and Concerns - traveling while pregnant or with small children
   Infectious Diseases - helpful advice on avoiding tick bites
   
   The doctors listed speak English and can be found near the top 40 popular vacation spots. Each listing states the price for an office consultations, office hours, address, work and mobile numbers, pager number and whether or not they do house calls in the local area.
   
   This book will be helpful for travelers, but could also be helpful for retirees, business travelers and cruise ship passengers. Travel tips throughout explain why you should not drink the local water or how you can avoid illness by peeling raw fruits and vegetables yourself.
   
   Mexico Health and Safety Travel Guide is an essential guide you will want to take with you when traveling in Mexico, especially if you travel there often or stay for over a week.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review



5. This appears to be an excellent reference guide to a subject shrouded in mystery. As with most issues in Mexico, health care is yet another that benefits by the bright light of knowledge. Fortunately I can say "appears" as I have never had to test the information provided, peace of mind is worth the reasonable cost of the book.
   
   I own a vacation home in Mexico on the Pacific coast and health is something that lurks in the background of every stay. This guide has provided a solid background for all health queries from how the system works to specific physician referrals. Much of the information should be considered as date sensitive and will need to be updated regularly to maintain it's value.
   
   I feel that this is an essential guide for the serious traveller to Mexico. People in reasonable health and very occasional resort travel probably need not bother.

1 comments about Living in Mexico.

1. This is a sensational book.
   I don't think I have ever seen so many appealing pictures all in one book.
   The book's greatest accomplishment is that it really captures the spirit of the place, from the charm of the haciendas to the sensuality of the Careyes.
   Of special note, I don't think anyone has ever done a better job of capturing the visceral and emotional quality of the Careyes villas.
   Highly recommended.

1 comments about Rio Grande.

1. Jan Reid has composed a unique anthology of writing on one of the two great southwestern rivers in his book "Rio Grande." Its main fault, if it has any, is that it is much too short. I could argue with the selections, but found them all of note and so would prefer more, rather than changing the ones Reid used in this book.
   
   I grew up along the other great southwestern river, the Colorado. Both rivers originate in the Rocky Mountains and wind through canyons between mountains in the desert, one reaching the Gulf of California and the other the Gulf of Mexico. Both have fascinating geology, biota and human history. Reid is primarily concerned with the latter. From the beginning of the river in the San Juan Mountains in Colorado to its mouth (if you can call it that) between the border cities of Brownsville, Texas and Matamoros, Mexico, he brings us samples of fiction and non-fiction about the great Río de las Palmas, Río Bravo del Norte or, as we Norte Americanos know it, the Rio Grande (pronounced " Rio Gran" in much of Texas). Modern and relatively modern authors from John Nichols ("The Milagro Beanfield War") and Paul Horgan ("Great River") to Woody Guthrie ("Seeds of Man") and James Carlos Blake ("In the Rogue Blood") and older writings, such as John Reed's "Insurgent Mexico" (1914) and Robert T. Hill's "Running the Cañons of the Rio Grande" (1901), all cast their spell and the spell of the land through which the Rio Grande travels, even if it is sometimes not as nice as we would like it to be.
   
   The most heart-rending chapter is "Ciudad de la Muerte" by Cecilia Balli. This chapter is about the three hundred women murdered in the border city of Juárez, over the last ten or so years. As I live only about 50 miles north of the border between El Paso, Texas, and Juárez, Chihuahua, I have some personal interest in these monstrous crimes. I am quite happy that we forbade our children to ever go across the border when they were in their teens, despite the fact that all of the victims so far have been Mexican and our kids were decidedly American. Also several teenagers who crossed the border (especially at night) have gotten into major trouble. I just don't trust the situation and Balli's essay really gets to the heart of that fear of the border city. Still, I have crossed the border on a number of occasions, but only a few times at Juárez.
   
   Despite all this the border lands and the Rio Grande have a rich history and culture. Reid has caught this, but I still would like more. Where is La Llorona, the wailing woman, who morns the children she allowed to drown in the river or the Confederate invasion up the Rio Grande of New Mexico in 1861? Both center on the river and both have a lot of local color. Still, I guess it is better to be left asking for more than wishing you had not read the book in question!
   
   I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to gain some of the historical and literary flavor of this once great river, now polluted and tamed, squeezed, like the Colorado, of nearly every drop, before it finally reaches the salty waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

1 comments about Mexico's Fortress Monasteries.

1. This is an excellent book. It is by far the most readable and detailed account of these wonderful colonial monuments in either English or Spanish.

   Superbly illustrated with dozens of original line drawings, this is a comprehensive survey of more than sixty ancient monasteries in central Mexico and Oaxaca. Many of them are architectural masterpieces. Most of them house extraordinary artistic treasures, whether in the form of murals, paintings, fonts or alterpieces.

   The small villages where many of them are found go unrecorded in conventional tourist guides. Perry's landmark book has easy-to-follow sketch maps locating all the places described in the text and contains literally hundreds of little-known facts about the buildings, their contents and the background to their construction.

   Why should you be interested in these monuments? Because, to quote the author, these are "buildings that not only mirror a crucial period in the history of the Americas, but continue to play a central role in the life of the Mexican people today." Few Americans know very much about the missions and monasteries of Mexico and anyone interested in the history of Mexico's colonial period, or interested in the country's art and architecture, will enjoy reading this book, even if they are unable to visit first-hand all the places described.

   The book's value as a reference source is enhanced by a useful glossary, extensive bibliography and complete index.