Lonely Planet Greek Islands (Paperback)

by David Willett (Author), Carolyn Bain (Author), Michael Clark (Author), Des Hannigan (Author), Paul Hellander (Author), Jeanne Oliver (Author) "Named in honour of Athina the goddess of wisdom the Greek capita was always going to have a difficult time living up to expectations..." (more)
Key Phrases: domatia owners, main ferry quay, fish mezedes, Agios Nikolaos, National Bank of Greece, Olympic Airways (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
"...for the adventurous traveler who wants to live like a native." -- Real Simple Magazine, June 2005 --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Description
Hit the high seas! With a vast coastline and 300 days of sunshine a year, Greece's islands are the ultimate European escape. Whether you're seeking traditional village life or exploring the haunts of the jet set, our definitive guide gives you detailed regional coverage for the perfect getaway.

* EXPLORE - in-depth descriptions of over 70 islands, from the hedonistic nightlife of Mykonos to refined retreats such as Paxi and Ithaki

* DINE OUT - enjoy the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean in the best island tavernas

* STAY IN STYLE - accommodation to suit all pockets, whether it's beach-side camp sites or traditional domatia

* ISLAND HOP - detailed itineraries, up-to-date transport information and cross-referenced maps allow you to travel effortlessly

* LEARN THE LINGO - easy-to-use, comprehensive language chapter

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Product Details

• Paperback: 480 pages
• Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications; 3rd edition (March 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1740594738
• ISBN-13: 978-1740594738
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.6 out of 5 stars See all reviews (22 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #785,540 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

32 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Complete and Very Indestructable, September 25, 2000

By	Eric Antonow (Palo Alto, CA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Lonely Planet Greek Islands (Paperback)

Finally a guide built for travelling. Stitched and perfect-bound to endure many one-handed readings, drops and spills. Used this for a few Cycladian islands and Athens, on a mid-level budget and was as satisfied as can be. Great recommendations -- what to do and what is a waste of time (very helpful) and they seem to find a number of gems off the beaten path. I can't say enough about the maps which are included for every island and most towns. Every other guide seems to think that this is non-essential information, leaving you to hunt for a local map at your ports of call. Buy this ahead of planning the trip as their direction and suggestions may have a significant impact on your itinerary.

26 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Extremely useful book during my 3 month Greek Isle trek, March 14, 2002

By	Mark W. Sink "Mark W. Sink" (Atlanta, GA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Lonely Planet Greek Islands (Paperback)

I spent the entire summer of 2000 backpacking the Greek Isles. This book was an indispensable tool over the course of 15 different islands and Athens. Most of the travelers I encountered (a few Americans and loads of Aussies, Kiwis, Brits, Swedes, and more) had this exact book. The lodging details, maps, recommendations, and descriptions were very accurate- as accurate as you can be in a compact package such as this. I entered my journey relatively unprepared and this book was truly a lifesaver. I was living in Italy when I started and just "winged it" from there. With this LP Guide, I was able to be quite spontaneous and just look up details of upcoming islands as I needed. The other travelers I encountered who used this book were also universal in their praise. Any travel guide that can help me this much for 3 months is, I repeat, indispensable. Now do yourself a favor and don't do what the typical American traveler does which is i)staying just a day on each island, ii)only seeing Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, and iii)trying too hard to cram 10 European destinations into 10 days. Take some time off and appreciate the cultures! Enjoy.

23 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Disappointing for a Lonely Planet book!, July 19, 2005

By	J. Roggow "timberpak" (Mid Michigan, United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I own a LOT of Lonely Planet travel guides and have always been happy with the insider information they provide. This book, however, is lacking in MANY ways. First of all, there are hardly any photos. Secondly, it seems like the same island description has been pasted onto each island. It goes something like this, " This is one of the most beautiful islands....". Lastly, it falls way short in hotel listing. In Mykonos, for example, the book only list 3 hotels in budget, 3 in medium price range, and 3 deluxe hotels. You've got to be kidding! All that's listed as far as excursions in Mykonos is the number of a travel agent and a gay cruise. Sorry,..not interested...in either!! I want descriptions and suggestions. Did Lonely Planet really ever visit all of these islands? VERY disappointing!