Customer Reviews

Frommer's Thailand: The Complete Guide to Bangkok and the Beach Resorts (Frommer's Thailand, 4th ed)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I am a strong believer in Arthur Frommer and his guides of top tourist destinations. The guide to Thailand 2000 is just another example of Frommers' dedication to American tourists. From inexpensive hotels in Bangkok to prehistoric tribes, Frommer's has created a masterpiece. Oh, and if you have the time, don't forget to visit the beaches in the south!

When I went to Thailand last year, I ended up planning most of my trip according to this book. The author never steered me wrong. While this might not be the best source for the backpacker set, the rest of us are well served with a variety of options for most travel budgets. I also liked the author's sense of humor and frank honesty. She has lived in the region and knows what she is talking about. The Thais I encountered during my trip also thought highly of the book. When I return to Thailand in 2003, this updated version of the book will be right there with me. I know it is an "establishment" guide but this is one time when mainstream is not necessarily a bad thing.

For the most part I find Frommer's travel books to be very good. This one for Thailand was decent. It gave good descriptions of places including how to get there, phone numbers, prices, ect. But this book was definately not meant for the budget traveler/ backpacker. If it offered more information geared to the budget traveler; ie: lower priced places to stay, dining, places to go to (especially the non-resorty places), I would give it 5 stars.

I have read other books from Frommer and have been very satisfied. That is, until I read this book. I was quite disappointed in this book. The author didn't seem like she enjoyed writing this book or even enjoyed traveling through Thailand at all. I would look else where before buying this book.

Am usually a huge fan of Frommer's guidebooks. But am disappointed to say that this book was not helpful in ANY way ! There is nothing useful here - from overall insight, to presenting specific materials in a usable, organized format.. NOTHING ! Even the shops she recommended would've been difficult to find without a good map in the book. Most bothersome of all, it seems like the author doesn't even like Thailand very much and it is reflected in her review of attractions, various warnings, etc. Thailand is a beautiful, interesting country with much to offer for any type of traveler. We went to Bangkok and the Southern coast and did not use the book at all- for planning or during the trip.

Considering that there is no content, this book was very heavy to travel with ! ...

I find that the Frommer's guides include much of the things I need to know when I travel. The books are laid out well and the maps are good.