Baedeker Venice

Library Journal

These gorgeous guides are the latest entries in Fodor's "See It " series, which now covers nine cities (mostly in Europe) and 15 countries around the world. All the books utilize teams of writers, make use of symbols to simplify basic information, and include street indexes for maps plus comprehensive content indexes. There are even concise language sections for common phrases and words in the relevant language. The visual appeal of these two books is instantaneous, and, fortunately, the content is equal to appearances. If there is any negative, it's the overwhelming amount of information provided. It would be difficult to find a subject concerning either city that is not covered from personal safety and the appearance of currency to how to use the vaporetti in Venice and thoroughly explore Wenceslas Square in Prague. The guides are filled with sumptuous color photographs and are color coded into seven categories: "On the Move" (orange), "The Sights" (blue), "What To Do" (green), "Out and About" (violet), "Eating and Staying" (red), "Planning" (purple), and "Maps" (aqua). The copious maps are marvelous. Extensive city/country histories are included, along with sections extolling the "bests" of both cities. While Venice will be more familiar to most readers, Prague is described as the "continent's most perfectly preserved historic capital city." Both volumes are highly recommended for all travel collections. Janet Ross, formerly with Sparks Branch Lib., NV Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.