Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)As the only state I have never visited, Alaska has been on my short list for a long time.
Generally what I look to a travel guide for is recommendations on hotels and restaurants. I have made my reservations online for many many years, looking for out of the way places and a more authentic experience. In that regard, this guide really hits the mark. Written by a Alaska native, seasoned writer of some repute and naturalist, the book is an enjoyable read and unusual, in my experience, in that it really gives you an insider's perspective. Writer Charles Wohlforth points to the most beautiful vistas and how to get there; and provides perspective on Alaska's history, it's residents (both human and wildlife,) how, when and where to approach them.
He and his team go farther than many guides in that they do not just recommend a tour or hotel, they review all of the options and explain which is best for whom. that is he covers luxury travel, economy travel, nature tours... so that you can put together an itinerary best suited to you.
The guide covers all of the things one would expect: an over view of each region and/ or city, average temperature and weather chart, a large coated pull out map as well as numerous smaller detail maps, guides to parks, tours, activities, hotels and various modes of transportation. Where he goes beyond most guides is with his knowledge of native wildlife, where to see it and how to safely approach (or conversely when to keep your distance). That said this guide would also be of interest to bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts in general.
The book is both comprehensive and relatively compact. Because of its dimensions, it is more portable than most books of this scope. That said I believe it is the only guide you would need (speaking as one who usually buys a comprehensive book for planning and a compact guide for actual travel).
The only downside I see to this book is that after reading it I do not know that I would be satisfied with a 7-14 day tour. Alaska is immense, rich with beautiful and unusual vistas, diverse cultural experiences and a wide variety of recreational activities as well. After reading this book I am no longer thinking about hopping a 7 day cruise from Seattle and think I'd like to spend some time on land, inland, and get to experience some of the Alaska that you do not get to see from a cruise boat (or tour bus).
Click Here to see more reviews about: Frommer's Alaska 2010 (Frommer's Color Complete)
Completely updated every year, Frommer's Alaska features gorgeous color photos of the sights and experiences that await you.
Our expert author lets you know your best bets for spotting wildlife, catching salmon or halibut, and getting up-close-and-personal with glaciers. Plus, detailed information on Alaska's most scenic drives and where you can go to interact with Native people and culture.
Our cruise experts break down the variety of Alaska cruises, from the debate between small versus large boats to who you can expect to be sailing with when you choose a particular cruise line.
Plus, the best scenic drives along Alaska's highways,a guide to exploring Denali and Kenai Fjords national parks,"when, where and how" for viewing bears, whales, and other wildlife andinsider advice on getting the most out of your Alaska cruise experience
Click here for more information about Frommer's Alaska 2010 (Frommer's Color Complete)
