Although it's hard to verify the publishers' statement that California's Monterey County is Americans' second favorite tourist destination (after Hawaii), it is definitely true that this luminous spot has much to offer visitors of all ages. It's also true that most visitors will spend a bundle trying to see all of the major attractions. Hamilton's book focuses on places to go and things to see that are free or very inexpensive. Covering Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, Big Sur, and Salinas, the Monterey resident presents her information in a way that clearly indicates firsthand knowledge. While some of the facts are supplied by various agencies, Hamilton has definitely gone over all the roads, shopped in most of the stores, visited a majority of the attractions, and organized her findings to encourage budget-minded tourists to get the most out of their vacation. Libraries, parks, nature walks, factories, bookstores, and galleries are among the resources listed, and Hamilton also offers a wealth of web sites. This book will find a receptive audience in all public libraries.AJoseph L. Carlson, Lompoc P.L., CA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Diana J. Dennett, local author and historian, and 9th generation Montereyan
"Every resident of Monterey County should have one of these books to give to their guests. I've never seen so much in a tour guide before. I've lived here all my life and I learned about several new things to see and do - all free! I will use the comprehensive Calendar of Events to plan ahead."