Guatemala : Adventures in Nature

Rating:
Summary: Excellent!
Review: (From Planeta.com Journal) - Reading Richard Mahler is like opening a letter from a well-traveled friend. This is the second edition of a regional classic. Its coverage of environmental issues and travel options is first-rate. This is a must read for any eco traveler.

Rating:
Summary: Completed Updated In 1999
Review: As the author of this book, I am predictably biased in its favor. However, I feel it's important to say that I spent several months in late 1998 and early 1999 poring over every word, photo, and map to make sure that it was correct, helpful, and informative. Readers will find everything from restaurant and hotel reviews to reports on Spanish schools, craft markets, and Maya ruins. I find Guatemala a fascinating and rewarding country to visit and it remains one of the world's greatest travel bargains. However, since the Peace Accords were signed in 1996 and the guerrilla war ended, more and more people are discovering this place. Therefore, prices will only go up. I'm convinced that there is no better time to see the unspoiled treasures of Guatemala than right now, before the crowds descend. My specialties are the contemporary and ancient cultures of the Maya as well as the national parks of the country. In the latest edition of my book, I've gone to great lengths to include every possible useful tidbit of information on these subjects, from the best place to explore the rainforest to the best way to tour Tikal. As always, I am eager to receive reports from readers, who supply me with some of the best insider information available. Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: From Travel & Leisure (January 1998)
Review: Finally, guidebooks that take eco-tourism seriously. John Muir Publications debuts its new Adventures in Nature series this month with guides on Belize and Guatemala. The books are as indispensable for first-time visitors as they are for wildlife lovers. Birders, snorkelers, fishermen, archaeologists, and botanists will find extensive lists of the best outfitters and preserves. Itineraries cover everything from volcano hikes to walks through sacred Mayan caves and butterfly breeding grounds. Written by environmentalist Richard Mahler..., this series is outstanding in its depth of information about conservation issues.

Rating:
Summary: Completely revised and updated in 1997.
Review: I have traveled to Guatemala many, many times during the past ten years and did a thorough revision of this book (previously titled "Guatemala: A Natural Destination") between January and September of 1997. I've added new maps, photos, e-mail addresses, websites, and over 40 pages of text. My target is the adventurous, flexible, and independent traveler who likes the outdoors and indigenous culture (including arts and crafts), but the book has a comprehensive listing of hotels, restaurants, outfitters, travel agencies, and other specialists in all categories. If you want to study Spanish in Guatemala, there is an extensive list with informed recommendations. Guatemala is at peace for the first times in over 45 years and there is no better time to see this friendly, gorgeous country!

Rating:
Summary: Completed Updated In 1999
Review: The investigation of Richard Mahler in Guatemala is above excellent, and I really love all the details of adventure in it. I recommend this book to every tourist and local people, is amazing all the beauty that we have down here. Is very complete, including hotels, restaurants, what to see, what to do in each part of the country. A list of volcanoes, rivers, caves and recommendations of fishing, cycling, kayaking, etc etc. with a list of tourist operators on each issue. Great book!

Rating:
Summary: If you love adventure, this is your book!
Review: The investigation of Richard Mahler in Guatemala is above excellent, and I really love all the details of adventure in it. I recommend this book to every tourist and local people, is amazing all the beauty that we have down here. Is very complete, including hotels, restaurants, what to see, what to do in each part of the country. A list of volcanoes, rivers, caves and recommendations of fishing, cycling, kayaking, etc etc. with a list of tourist operators on each issue. Great book!

Rating:
Summary: The one book to take to Guatemala
Review: This book is based on an earlier book by Mr. Mahler, which I used frequently during my 1994-97 posting to Guatemala. I had several guide books, but found that Mr. Mahler's was the one I turned to most frequently. I eventually got to many of the places mentioned in his book, and found that the information he had provided was accurate and useful. I spoke with Mr. Mahler just before leaving Guatemala, and am delighted that he included some of my suggestions in this book, including Los Viejitos Restaurant in Nebaj (look for the green door)--the owner told me she used to cook for Nancy Sinatra!