Customer Reviews

Lonely Planet Libya (Country Travel Guide)

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

 

 

While there are certainly more extensive write ups on the elements of Libya, I have not seen a more comprehensive coverage with this level of detail. I use this reference to plan my local adventures, and I am seldom surprised (impressed yes, surprised no) by what I find, because the book has properly prepared me. Sharing this reference with associates has resulted in two additional copies being ordered through Amazon. Based upon my experience with this edition, I have already purchased copies for Egypt and Tunisia.

I have been living in Libya and this book gave great beginning insight into places to travel... many people complain that the book put too much of a positive flare on things, for example 5 star hotels being 3 star.... you have to keep in mind that in this culture a 5 star hotel may not meet the standards of your country. I have found US, Japanese, and Aussies/New Zealanders have much higher standards for hotels than other Middle Eastern cultures or Europeans. Many hotels in the more rural areas of Libya are not that great even though they claim to be 5 stars. I found once you are there it is best to ask locals or speak with a local travel agency. You can ask them about the hotels you read about and make a decision. The larger cities like Tripoli really do have nice hotels. The Radisson Blu for example was a very nice as well as the Corinthian.

Pros: Covered many cities/towns in Libya and gave good insight into some of the history. The book has good maps. It has a few key Arabic sayings in the back of the book. The book had good traveler's tips and travelers short stories.

Cons: The book is close to 5 years old so some of the things mentioned may not be found (although I have not had that problem)

This guide isn't lacking in detail compared to other brands of guide books. I just wish it had more pictures, and color pictures.