What's In A Fodors Guidebook?
 

Dear Editors and Travelers, Can you explain the differences within the various Fodor guides? The Guidebook section has no description of the content of various books. For instance, what are the similarities and differences between:
The Gold guides
Compass guides
In Focus guides
See It guides

What are Flash Maps?

Thanks.

Why not e-mail them and ask?

Actually, I'd love it if a Fodor's editor would answer here. Ever since Fodor's expanded its line of guidebooks, I find myself confused occasionally as to which one to pick, when multiple editions exist for the same destination.

I usually choose the one that's published most recently. Gold Guides are the "standard" guidebooks and those are the ones I get. IME, the Compass guides are oldest - not sure if new ones are still being made.

See It is a bit like DK Eyewitness?

Flash maps is a map; I guess it's like the London AtoZ.

"<i>Actually, I'd love it if a Fodor's editor would answer here</i>"

Well -- they'd have to see the thread to do that.

They don't sit around reading every post. So My suggestion still stands. E-mail the editors and ask them to respond here . . .

I guess they don't read every post, but they do answer a lot of questions on here. And frankly, I think it is a great question to ask on here and I bet one of them does see it and reply in a day or two. I am sure a lot of people have had that same question, it is very confusing.

I've sent this link to Amy in an email. I hope she answers.

Hi TC,

Here is a quick break down for you. Hope this helps!

Gold Guides: Comprehensive planning and travel guides featuring historical and cultural information plus expert recommendations for dining, lodging, and activities

Compass Guides: Photo-rich, full-color, narrative guides that immerse you in the history, character, and culture of U.S. regions

In Focus Guides: All of the information and practical advice of a Gold Guide in a compact format at a lower price

See it Guides: Practical, full-color illustrated guides organized by region and neighborhood

Flashmaps: More than 50 easy-to-themed maps that help you find and explore your destinations in a flash

Thanks, Amy.