by Editor | Sep 1, 2005 | Books, Products, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Travel Books
We found this book exceptionally informative. It was actually two guides in one. The first part was a fascinating 160-page treasure trove of information about the flora, fauna, cultures and socio-political events that shaped the Amazonian world, including a number of vignettes on history, climate and current ecological challenges. Additionally, it provided us with a wealth of realistic facts on topics ranging from health issues to what to pack for a visit to the area. We found it an invaluable resource in planning our recent visit to the Western Amazon. We subsequently had daily opportunities to be glad that we had followed the authors’ sound practical advice on clothing, footwear and personal necessities selection. This enabled us to travel more comfortably, and lighter than we ever thought possible.
by Editor | Jun 1, 2005 | Books, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Travel Books
In addition to page after page of fabulous maps there are three square feet of information including 75 political and physical maps, satellite photos, and a 134-page index in the latest edition of the famous National Geographic world atlas. Last updated five years ago, the eighth edition emphasizes North American maps. It is divided geographically starting on page 25 as follows: North America (22 pages, p25-47), South America (five pages, p48-53), Europe (14 pages, p54-68), Asia (13 pages, p69-82), Africa (five pages, p83-88), and Australia and Oceania (five pages, p89-94). With as many as 8,000 labels per map plate, the Atlas is one of the most detailed in the world. National Geographic editorial staff made use of the geographic information system and data sources such as the United Nations, U.S. State Department, Central Intelligence Agency, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
by Editor | Mar 1, 2005 | Books, Products, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Travel Books
We found Africa’s Top Wildlife Countries to be a useful reference source, especially for travelers booking an organized tour. This makes sense since the author heads up Africa Adventure Company, a Florida based travel agency specializing in African safari trips. W e have referred to this book when planning an independent game viewing trip. It offers insights on weather conditions at different times of the year, a “What Wildlife is Best Seen Where” chart, destination highlights, facilities descriptions (without contact information), a glossary of safari terms, a list of shopping suggestions for various countries and plenty of useful maps. We would have especially appreciated tourism and facilities websites and email information. Perhaps there will be some of those in the next edition.
