1 comments about Senor Nice: Strange Life from Wales to South America.

1. Let me begin by saying that Mr. Nice is my favorite book of all time and I respect Mr. Marks as a person and author very much. That being said, I think that Senor Nice does not measure up to the standards that Mr. Marks has created with his first autobiography. It is still a colorful tale of world travels and full of great history, especially if your Welsh. However, it does seem to drag out and I did find myself skimming over more than a few pages in this book. Overall I would say it is a great book as long as you hadn't read Mr. Nice prior.

No comments about Brazil South Map by Nelles (Nelles Maps).

5 comments about Lonely Planet Rio De Janeiro.

1. Very few things were out dated when I used this book. Great tips on where to eat, and what to see, and what particular crime areas to avoid. Its a good book for preplanning and during your trip. Check out the restaurant GIRL FROM IPANEMA to see where the song was written when your in Rio.



2. Before going on my trip to Rio, I decided to purchase 3 guide books rather than relying on just one. And what a great decision that was! Had I relied on just Lonely Planet's Rio guide, I would have been as hopeless as a lost puppy. Most of the information in this book are outdated or plain incorrect. Important areas such as music, nightlife, etc. were neglected and many recommendations such as those for lodging & dining were off. My suggestion is that one should definitely look for alternatives to this guide as my copy is awaiting a more useful future near a recycling plant on outskirts of Rio.

   Of the 3 guides that I purchased, I found Rio for Parties the most useful. An excellent guide aimed for the young or the young at heart.




3. Not enough information about the popular culture or nightlife to really absorb the lifestyle of Cariocas. For such a complex and exciting city, this book offers basic, conventional information, some of which is out dated and few photos or illustrations. ...This book gives me the yawns. I recommend Rio for Partiers (even if you are not twenty-something)to get excited about traveling to Rio de Janeiro, one of the most gifted cities in the world.



4. This book contains just as much information as this review.



5. I dont recommend this book, most of the informations are inaccurated. Rio has an extensive options that are not described on that book. Unfortunately I have spent three days to discover an excelent visual travel guide called Rio for Partiers. Expensive than Lonely Planet, it's true, but all the informations you have to know is there. By The Way I could save a lot of money using the discounts and bonuses!

1 comments about The History of the Incas.

1. This translation of the work of Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa is both riveting and detailed. As an account of the history of the Incas it is unsurpassed in its accuracy, presenting evidence gained from the Incas themselves circa 1570AD. Events and occurrences are vividly portrayed although the reader is always left with a sense of myth being mixed with fact. Also the annoying use of Italics to mark out the obvious and often contradictory statements forced to be included in the book by the Spanish Viceroy of the time is somewhat demeaning.

   Despite this the translation serves as a fascinating read and as a lucid and detailed account of the history of the Incas. The translator has also included an invaluable lexicon of Quechua words and useful maps of the areas in question that add a realism to the book that would be otherwise unachievable.

   A stunning and informative read this work is equally capable of being a book of general interest or an accurate academic source. However the prime benefit of this book is not its authenticity but its rich detail that illustrates the lifestyle of the ancient Incas in a truly vivid manner. It is also interesting to note the strong religious superiority that is portrayed by the author and the attitudes of the Spanish conquistadors towards the Incas that were apparent during this period of history and to observe how these factors shaped the type of history that was recorded during this period, a fact that is all to easy to overlook.

No comments about Hammond International South America: North (International Series).

5 comments about The Inca Trail: Cuzco & Machu Picchu (Trailblazer Trekking Guides).

1. This book gives wonderful advice and preparation if you are going to hike on the Inka Trail to Machu Picchu. There is great advice for safety, route descriptions, and is best for preparation. Info is given on the history of the land, its people and culture, food, places to stay, as well as safety tips for health in the region.
   However, as another reviewer said below, a professional tour guide would serve you well.
   Overall a great guide for preparing to walk solo on an ancient and breathtaking trail.



2. We bought this guide before going to Peru. We did hike the Inca trail and while very descriptive, this book does not replace a seasoned local guide.



3. I was hoping this book would have better descriptions of finding hikes in the Cusco area. The author seemed to like to share his political views. Overall there were some good travel tips, but you definately need a good travel guide to accomponany it.



4. I took this book and the Lonely Planet's on my recent trip to Peru, leaving the Insight Guide books at home. This book is much better in every respect to it's competitors. I only wish it had a section on the Colca Canyon. But for Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu, it's ideal.



5. I just got back from Peru where my husband and I hiked the trail to Machu Picchu. We brought this book with us and found it to be very inaccurate. I do not necessarily blame the author as there have been many, many changes in policies regarding hiking the Inca Trail this past year (2005) and there are bound to be even more changes in the near future as Peru tries to balance income from tourism with preserving the trail and forest. In addition, pricing for hostels in Cusco have drastically changed and I COMPLETELY disagreed with the author's food reviews. The best hot chocolate in Cusco is certainly NOT the Swiss owned place on Cuenta San Blas but rather I found, after testing many hot chocolates all around the city, that the best hot chocolate was a corner restaurant on Cuenta San Blas and Carmen Alto (on the corner of Plaza San Blas). Also, the best chicken burger was actually a 3 sole burger that I bought in a restaurant on a side street (Plateros) a few steps from the Plaza de Armas. The author tended to choose the more expensive restaurants to put in his book, but I found the food in the cheaper places to be much better. Just down Plateros from the chicken burger place, there are two markets which were better than the ones at the end of Ave de Sol which the author recommended. They were just as willing to bargain, had a larger variety of things, and were only a few hundred feet from the Plaza de Armas instead of 12 blocks away like the ones on the Ave de Sol. To top it off, Inkaray is a fantastic restaurant on the same street as the market and the chicken burger place that has 4 course meals for 12 soles! It was good food and lots of it for super cheap. It's about 4 blocks from the Plaza de Armas on Plateros, on the right hand side as you're leaving the plaza. It has handwritten referral signs in English posted on the windows from happy patrons...we didn't write a sign, but we agreed with each and every one of them. If you have a sweet tooth like me, I recommend the pancakes with banana and chocolate as a dessert, or for breakfast. At 6 soles, they're darn good and HUGE! Bottomline, this book was useful as far as the Incan history stuff and maps of Cusco, but was fairly useless for the nitty gritty stuff like prices, food, and Inca Trail hiking policies. Not a backpacker friend. I've heard that there might be a newer version. If so, I'd pick that one up instead.

3 comments about The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly: Costa Rica.

1. Reviewed by Matthew Feliciano (age 7) for Reader Views (3/08)
   
   "The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly: Costa Rica" is a book about a millipede named Lilly. Lilly is about to go on a trip to Costa Rica because her grandparents are sick of living in an airport. Once day, they decided to get on a plane. The grandpa didn't want to go but they went anyway. Lilly loved to read and learn and was excited about this new adventure.
   
   Lilly used a guidebook to help her learn about Costa Rica. She was looking forward to going and seeing all of the many animals there. She wanted to eat new food and see all there was to see. Even when things got tough, they all stayed together and happy as a family.
   
   They came back from their trip and lived back at home in the airport. They liked Costa Rica but were happy to be home.
   
   I liked "The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly: Costa Rica" a lot. It was educational and showed me new things about a new country. I didn't like the CD that came with it because it read the story to me. I liked the background music but since I can read, I didn't need the CD to read the book for you. For younger kids who can't read the CD might help but for me, I didn't like it. Other than that, this book was really good.



2. The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly: Costa Rica is a children's book with accompanying audio CD following the adventures of a tiny millipede with a talent for playing the piano. Along with her grandparents, the plucky millipede goes on a wondrous journey deep into the Costa Rican rainforest! The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly features a number of catchy songs sung by various creatures; these songs are played with music on the audio CD, making for a most enjoyable reading and listening experience. Simple yet colorful illustrations round out this surprisingly long and involved picturebook adventure. Highly recommended.



3. The Travel Adventures of Lilly P. Badilly: Costa Rica takes readers on a journey with a spunky child-millipede named Lilly, her wig-wearing Grandma, and flatulence-prone Grandpa. The lengthy (64 pages) hardcover picture book also comes with a 30-minute CD that includes the entire text of the story with an original score and sound effects.
   
   Lilly and her family live in the Miami International Airport. When Grandma Nellie tires of the familiar surroundings of the airport the entire millipede family, including a reluctant Grandpa Willie, heads out on an educational adventure to the rainforests of Costa Rica. There they encounter glimpses of Costa Rican culture and discover both friends and enemies amongst the native insect population.
   
   Despite encountering and escaping from a spider named Ruth Less with less than noble intentions, the family still manages to do some sight-seeing before returning to Miami. Lilly is a book lover and talented musician, and her natural proclivities help her family to overcome difficulties and fears on their journey.
   
   There is some confusion during the first portion of the book, leaving readers uncertain as to exactly when the decision to travel to Costa Rica was made. I was unable to tell if someone had made the decision to plan for a Costa Rican trip, or if this was indeed a random departure as Grandma Nellie had indicated she would be interested in. If the departure was random, Lilly was surprisingly well prepared. Thankfully, we can put these concerns aside once the traveling millipedes reach their destination and begin learning about the flora, fauna, geography and culture of this country. Glade's aim is to educate and entertain simultaneously.
   
   Author and self-taught illustrator Debbie Glade uses bright, saturated watercolours to bring the Costa Rican landscape to life. Her bold and clearly defined illustration reach children on their own level, and is reminiscent of children's artwork. Glade's work is charming, though there are some seemingly inadvertent perspective issues - particularly with human figures; their hands seem far too tiny in comparison with the rest of their bodies, particularly the feet. Glade's illustrations successfully engage children in the story, but do leave room for improvement.
   
   The CD that accompanies the book brings the quirky characters and Costa Rican landscape to vivid life. The day we received this title my five-year-old pre-reader listened to the CD and `read' along with the book no less than five times. We have been treated to Lilly's squeaky voice countless times since then. Glade has produced a winner according to my children.
   
   Debbie Glade's lively and unusual voices accompanied by the songs and score that her daughter Rachel and husband John collaborated on render the story unforgettable. Glade narrates the story, reading the dialogue of each character in his or her own unique voice. Recordings of authentic wildlife and rainforest sounds in the background contribute to a realistic feeling - as realistic as one can expect when accompanying a talking millipede family in their journeys!
   
   There is one sound effect I could have done without. I had to wince when Grandpa's flatulence was inserted... loudly, for comic relief along with Lilly's laughter. Children definitely go through a period where they find bodily functions vastly entertaining, and it will definitely be humorous for children at this stage. Parents who are trying to discourage their children from this tendency won't find much backup with this title.
   
   Glade's family wrote and performed a varied score for the book, moving readers more deeply into the emotional moods throughout the story. Lilly sings in a squeaky, off-key voice that is strangely endearing. The songs prove to be catchy and entertaining - I find myself singing them around the house. "Granny wears a wig that makes her look old, but don't let that fool you `cause she's very bold." It's hard to resist winning lyrics such as that! Wig-wearing millipedes, who'd have thought?
   
   Glade's husband, John provides Grandpa's singing voice, which does not at all match his spoken voice. Grandpa's regular voice is croaky and old, while his singing voice is surprisingly smooth, warm and mellow - quite a difference. John also plays the guitar and harmonica, while daughter Rachel plays the piano and sitar.
   
   While I noticed these small inconsistencies and lack of clarity regarding who planned the trip, or if it was planned at all, my children certainly don't mind. This self-published offering is certainly worth exploring. The simple, lively music along with Lilly's squeaky voice are hard to forget, and will make this bright, bold book and CD combination a favourite of young children everywhere.

2 comments about Compass American Guides: Texas, 3rd Edition (Compass American Guides).

1. This is definately NOT the type of Fodor's guidebook I was expecting. Do not get this book if your expecting a Fodor's Gold Guide. I guess I'll donate the book to the local elementary school. There seems to be a paucity of guidebooks about Dallas. Maybe I should watch reruns of the show



2. This is the kind of book you should read if you're interested in learning more about Texas than just where to eat and sleep. It's beautifully illustrated with great photos and very good maps, including ones that detail the larger cities. It contains glimpses into the culture and history of the state, the information that help you understand what you'll be seeing once you're there. The front cover contains a quote by the highly esteemed travel writer, Jan Morris, who says of the Compass American Guides: "The most literate and elegant series of guides ever written about North America." I agree. It's worth reading even if you don't intend to visit Texas.

2 comments about Understanding Spanish-Speaking South Americans: Bridging Hemispheres (Interact Series).

1. Understanding Spanish-Speaking South Americans: Bridging Hemispheres by Skye Stephenson (who draws upon his many years of experience in directing study programs abroad through South American, and especially in Chili) examines the nine Spanish-speaking nations of South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Columbia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. History; geographical influences; the mix of Spanish, African, and European cultures and settlers and their effects upon on each of the nations; and a great deal more combine nicely for a college-level, informed and informative presentation. Understanding Spanish-Speaking South Americans is a unique and highly recommended addition to International Studies reference collections in general, and South American Studies reading lists in particular.



2. "Understanding Spanish-Speaking South Americans" is the most in-depth and unbiased analysis of Latin American cultures I have encountered. It helps readers truly understand the internal logic and cultural intricacies of each country within the mosaic of South America. The author's personal experience of life in Latin America enables her to present content which is authentic, accurate and fascinating. Congratulations for such a well-written, wonderful book!

5 comments about Is There a Hole in the Boat?: Tales of Travel in Panama without a Car.

1. Darrin DuFord's tales of wanderlust provide an invigorating read as he explores untamed lands and weaves in historical details to give context. Curiosity leads him to new discoveries in this travelogue filled with stories of hunting and fishing in a wild terrain. As he paints a vivid picture of life in Panama, his writing reveals an exotic tour of culinary feasts.
   
   He drinks a lemongrass tea, quenches his thirst with sea grapes and samples exotic fruit shakes. The villagers' love of music gives him opportunity to exchange his band's CD for a boat ride and he learns how to barter and survive through creative means. The stories of fishing tilapia made me hungry as he describes everything from the boat ride to the final preparation and delicious feast.
   
   Many of the most intriguing stories include details of the lives of the villagers and how they survive, even in places where they must find creative means to obtain water. A journey to find a fresh palm heart from a tree becomes as much an adventure as stories of medicine men, ancient curses, celebrations and trips to a famous hermit's beach hideout. Villagers must travel to the city to check their email and they seem to face their life challenges with a sense of humor and patience.
   
   Darrin DuFord's powers of description glow with a precision that creates flashes of images in the mind's eye making this as visually stunning and creatively intoxicating. As an extremely talented travel writer, his articles have also appeared in The Panama News and Transitions Abroad. His latest recipes and articles can also be found on his website "Omnivorous Traveler." I can highly recommend this to you if you enjoy culinary adventures and vivid descriptions of exotic locales.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review



2. Reviewed by Lisa Kisner for ReaderViews (3/07)
   
   Darrin DuFord tells of traveling through Panama using the same transportation as the local people. He travels by foot, bus, and in the back of pick-up trucks across miles of paved and unpaved roads. In his travels he immerses himself, and the reader, in the multiple cultures to be found in Panama, some of which remain indigenous. Sampling the many foods and drinks of the cultures while observing everyday life and participating in some traditional celebrations, the author shows that there is much more to Panama than the Panama Canal. Along the way, the author also touches on some of the issues facing the Panamanian people, such as the destruction of the jungle and the declining iguana and lobster populations.
   
   Mr. DuFord has a style of writing that brings the landscape to life and makes even the most questionable meal, such as bush rat, sound delicious. He makes you feel as if you are experiencing Panama along with him and gives you enough of a taste of a lesser-known Panama to make you want more. The reader will enjoy his descriptions of riding on the Panamanian public buses as much as when he meets the King of the Naso people or when he visits a hermit who lives alone on island. You will appreciate the ease of traveling in the United States, traffic, potholes and all, once you read the entertaining descriptions of the his trips across the country, yet, at the same time, you will find yourself wanting to take those same journeys in order to get to know the real Panama.
   
   Mr. DuFord gives the reader a glimpse into Panama and the people who call it home. If you are interested in travel or other cultures, add "Is There a Hole in the Boat?" to your reading list. You will not be disappointed.



3. Is There a Hole in the Boat? is the authors account of traveling through Panama using the same transportation methods that are used by the locals. Those methods of transportation include bus, by foot, riding in the back of trucks through paved and unpaved roads. The author introduces us to Panama's history, ecology and the indigenous people of the country as well.
   
   This book is about his experiences and discoveries made while traveling Panama on three seperate occassions. DuFord mixes with the locals, samples everything, the food, drink and experiences their cultures, observes the peoples everyday lives and participates in their traditional celebrations.
   
   Darrin DuFord writes his accounts with vivid descriptive detail, making this a engaging read. This is not to be confused with your normal travel guide of rating places to stay and eat. DuFord takes us on a journey into the lives and cultures of the Panama people and makes this both an enjoyable as well as an educational reading selection.



4. "Is There a Hole in the Boat" is an excellent travel narrative about traveling in Panama like the Panamanians do, without a car. It is not a book detailing the best hotels, best places to get a cold beer, or even the best shops to buy embroidered "molas." Instead, Darin DuFord paints a portrait of Panama, her people, her national pastimes, and even her iguanas.
   
   Through his loose collection of stories compiled in book form, DuFord explores Panama beyond her famous canal. He takes us on this journey in a series of different vehicles, including of course a leaky boat. He shows it to be a place of leaky boats and sandals stuck in the thick mud. But more than that, he shows it to be a place rich in human culture. In one chapter, he takes us to visit a tribal king. In another chapter, he takes us to a man named Polo who lives alone on an island. He calls himself, "the Roughest Man on the Beach," but he cooks dinner for anyone who visits his home. He also provides an inexpensive place to sleep, making his beach popular with backpackers who venture there by boat.
   
   DuFord shows himself to be a clearly talented writer. He does what few nonfiction writers can do. His words transport us to another world. "Is There a Hole in the Boat" is a real treat. Now, I want to visit Panama!



5. Whatever the genre, I enjoy books that intrigue my mind and engage my emotions in unexpected ways. This ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Finalist managed to intrigue and engage in the first page and didn't let up until the last word. Darrin DuFord shares a charming account of his Panamanian travels, through vivid descriptions of the country's topography, humorous details of his attempts to accept each new experience, and respectful acceptance of the cultural differences. As indicated by the title, this is NOT a dry how-to, where-to travelogue.
   
   DuFord deliberately set out to travel Panama as the natives do. By land, he hikes, bribes and barters his way from place to place in colorfully painted buses, dilapidated taxis and pick ups. By river and sea he crams his American frame into dugouts made for natives half his size, forced to bail water from leaky boats. Other times, he experiences the unique flora and fauna on foot with native guides who take delight in pointing out poisonous snakes and spiders and rats as big as cats. DuFord meets all the biting wildlife you can imagine close up. For nourishment, he bravely eats and drinks whatever the natives offer, delicacies not found in the North American diet.
   
   Except for the Canal Zone, most of Panama is a land without Western amenities. Potable running water is a luxury. Public transportation is a raucous adventure. Areas of clear cut rainforest deplete native food sources at an alarming rate. Still, Panama's people are hopeful and adaptable, cheerful, warm and welcoming. From native kings to sly guides to scientists, the stars of DuFord's travels are the people he meets along the way.
   
   This author's writing style is personable, his book delightful. Readers will learn a lot about Panama and its people, and enjoy themselves immensely in the process.