Thailand (Country Guide)

Cummings' book is directed to a different audience. For those who do not wish to read about the political or social problems involved with certain kinds of (shall I say "predatory"?) tourism, there are other guides to Thailand. But for those who have traveled to Thailand and elsewhere before with Lonely Planet guide in hand and have appreciated the careful attention these book pay to parts of the country and aspects of the culture that might otherwise be missed, we can rejoice that Cummings has spent many, many pages turning our eyes toward the beautiful yet neglected or underappreciated parts of Thailand, all the while reminding us of the potential for abuse that is may be latent in even the gentlest of tourists.

Cummings book is simply not designed for the tourist who deplanes in Bangkok already drooling after the "delights" available in some neon-illuminated corners of this othewise beautiful, hospitable country filled with many, many thoughtful, kind, and decent people. Those tourists who would dismiss Cummings' commentary generally don't need a guidebook anyway. For them, everything they want out of Thailand will be offered in all its sleazy glory as soon as the touts see the glint in their eyes and their tongues hanging out.

The third copy I have purchased of Cummings' thoughtful book will be in my hand this January when I get to Thailand. Previous editions have guided me and my family on the most memorable (and inexpensive) trips we have ever taken. This book makes it possible to enjoy Thailand with a fullness and richness that other guides can't match.

If you want to venture to the true beauty of Thailand, true land of smiles, than use LP as a terrific reference. If you want someone else to plan your whole trip and be part of a tour group, then call a travel agent or buy the "other" books.

Re: 7th edition: "Loi Krathong" (Festival of Lights - last full moon in November) needs more detailed information for more cities in Thailand and the festival itself. For me, this was THE festival of the year - great to observe pre-celebration, too. The flowers, floats, parades, food, atmosphere... This was one of my highlights of the trip. (We spent pre-festivities in Bangkok; actual festival in Ayuthaya). Joe only briefly mentions that it's "best to celebrate in the North." Don't let this discourage you from celebrating it elsewhere in Thailand.

Having traveled with various guide books, nothing so far beats the Lonely Planet guide books. But you must keep in mind as a user - all recommendations are merely recommendations. Investigate comments, take in the facts. (The comments are usually funny and helpful anyway). The cultural background information, history, and other side notes help make the difference to buy Lonely Planet instead of the others. Joe Cummings' LP books on Thailand, Bangkok & the phrasebook were superb. I liked his insight. LP helps you be a traveler, not just a tourist. (Other LP books used: Israel, Turkey, Greece, Western Europe, Baltics, Asia, and Hong Kong. They've all been worth their weight and size). If you can take your own luggage off the baggage carousel, you must use Lonely Planet.

PS: I would pass on the phrase book. (or buy a used copy once you are there.)