My husband and I enjoyed Paris very much and would like to go back but I'm thinking we should combine it with a trip somewhere else or just go some where else. I have no idea where and so was thinking maybe a book which gives an over-view to France/Italy/Spain or wherever might kick start me. I lived in England for a few months so don't need a guide for there, I already know I want to go back and show my kids around.<BR>I depend on the internet for ordering books and so miss out on the browse thru a book to see if it suits before buying.<BR>Can anyone suggest such a book? I guess I could buy a book for each country but that would be kind of expensive.

Even though you mention depending upon the internet to buy books, this is a time to go to the bookstore and look around at several while you're there. Look especially at the beautiful but generally expensive picture books of various places you kind of think you might like to visit. Narrow it down to a couple of places and then actually buy books to read and look forther at pictures to decide what in particular you want to travel to next. You can't beat picture books for this kind of global planning and at $30 to $80 a book, you surely don't want to buy several of them unless money is no object.

Spend some time in your public library as well as bookshops. Although the most current edition of each guide might not be available, you'll be able to see the style and quality/type of information available in each.<BR><BR>And, you can borrow all those gorgeous picture books for FREE....

Catherien--I agree with Elvira and Julie that browsing the books either at a bookshop or library is best, because you will truly find some books will address your needs better than others.<BR><BR>I always do both--starting at the library, browsing, then taking home a few to read more in depth, then I go to a major bookstore like Barnes and Noble or Borders and browse there. I recommend you go with enough time to sit and really peruse the books without feeling rushed, and take a notepad to jot notes. Using this method, you'll soon find a few "can't miss" selections that you will want for your trip.<BR><BR>AAA also has a book called "Europe Travel Book The Guide to Premier Destinations" it is free to members, $16.95 to non members I found it to be a helpful general guide<BR><BR>All that said, if you truly don't get out, and must order books, here are a few that are helpful, bearing in mind that any general book covering "Europe" will only hit the high spots:<BR><BR>Best of Europe by Rick Steves<BR>Europe For Dummies <BR>Fodors Europe <BR>Frommers Europe<BR><BR>Good luck, and have a great trip! <BR><BR>

Some time ago, Fodors sent me their Europe guide and for a generic it's very good. Personally I find Fodors restauarnat and hotels election a bit too upscale, but aprt from that very good.<BR><BR>I also think a guide to Europe is trying to do too much. If you're trying to make a choice, use the web, and then home in.

(Can't believe I misspelt my own name on the original post! - Guess I get dyslexia when using more than 2 fingers!)<BR>Anyway, THANK YOU for the suggestions. We really don't have any good book stores here, so I'll order some of the "Europe" books mentioned.

How about the Rough Guide to Europe... not many illustrations by good info.