Lonely Planet Guide Books

When planning your trip in a foreign country, do not rely solely on the guides. It is very wise to take the time to visit the websites of travel to be sure you have updated information.

Guide books have long been the companion of the traveler and the past they were essential to ensure that you have the necessary information at hand, especially if the passenger does not speak the local language.

More recently, the Internet has taken over as the most reliable source of information due to the fact that it is organic and is constantly changing and updating. A printed book is likely to become obsolete very quickly.

For example, last year I went to Costa Rica and took along the latest edition of Lonely Planet. It was published the previous year and for the most part it was a good guide and most of the information was current and useful.

However, in some cases, it failed me badly and I imagine that many other weary travelers can experience the same thing. On several occasions I had planned in advance using the information in the book Lonely Planet and found that it was wrong.

Such a situation can leave a traveler in a stalemate if they do not save the options. Especially in cases where expulsion may mean that you are stranded or without a bed for the night.

The most distressing incident was when I had taken the bus to near Poas Alajuela. The bus ride from San Jose is great and it is cheap too. I got up to the volcano in the morning and enjoyed the day.

In the afternoon I went down to the nearby building listed in the Lonely Planet, which offered to find me a dirty wooden shack for $ 30! I was shocked since the Lonely Planet lists LO QUE You Queiras as a term more decent. I guess they have not had a representative there lately.

Fortunately, a neighbor Lodge has been able to offer me a clean room with a view and breakfast for only $ 45. It was beyond my budget, but very worth it especially as I had a nice hot shower and got to spend the evening with a fire place.

I highly recommend Poas Lodge for their friendly service and good value rooms.

When planning a trip abroad, make sure you do your research using the Internet to supplement your guide. Check the accuracy by email in advance to check prices and availability.

Also check the review sites if you are unsure if a place can be as good as the guide can lead you to believe. Comments and opinions from other travelers are very useful.

Be careful and enjoy your trip!