Rick Steves' France: Belgium & the Netherlands 1997 (Annual) - Hardcover

France-bound fans of Rick Steves will be sure to tuck into their packs the updated version of his guide to France, Belgium and The Netherlands. The latter two countries, however, only make cameo appearances in the book in case travelers have some extra days to spare for sidetrips outside France. In his typical ebullient and knowledgeable manner, Rick describes what, in his opinion, are the best sights and activities for budget-minded travelers. Rick's descriptions are so thorough and clear, making it easy for his readers to retrace his footsteps and get the value-packed vacation he's planned for them. Note that the book's maps only provide general orientation; most travelers will want to obtain more detailed maps at the destination of interest. Rick Steve's claim to have eliminated unnecessary data by choosing the best from countless alternatives (thus producing a "skinnier" guidebook than those of competitors) is valid, but he might want to go a step further and convince his publisher to use less bulky paper and have an even lighter book to lug around as well. -- Joan Peterson, reviewer. -- Midwest Book Review