Baedeker France (1997)

Rating:
Summary: Don't bother back-ordering....
Review: but if you see it in a 2nd hand shop, it might be a good buy.

This book is especially useful for those undertaking a motoring holiday in France. The included map is very useful, and obviates the need for another map if space and funds are limited. (We did however use a separate map - the Michelin road atlas, which is more detailed, and a good size to have in the car - as a book it doesn't need folding out and fold up constantly!)

The book has some general information about France - climatic, topographical, transport, society etc, and a section on History and Culture and Art. These are useful and quite interesting. The bulk of the book is an alphabetical listing of places. This section contains info on the sites in the town or area, and surrounding areas. There is a good scattering of colour photos, and some diagrams.

To compare the entry on Chartres between this and 'Eyewitness' : this book includes a photo of the cathedral, and a smallish diagram showing the main structures internally and descriptions of the Royal Doorway and stained glass. There is some brief locational and historical material about the city of Chartres and mentions the well-regarded Museum of Fine Arts. Eyewitness, by contrast, gives the address, phone no and opening times of the museum (might or might not be helpful, depending on accuracy!). Then follow two double pages on the cathedral - one containing a 3-D type photo with cut-away, discussing all the important features (with some pictured), and a double-page spread on the stained glasses, including a colour diagram and key to all the windows.

Baedeker has been surpassed by Eyewitness...

Rating:
Summary: I Think There are Better Books
Review: I bought this to go to Paris and then take the train to the south of France and on to Switzerland. I think the book is outdated and there are better books available.

I prefer Eyewitness Travel because of the photography and there are others.

Jack in Toronto

Rating:
Summary: The one book to use when traveling in France
Review: Lived in Europe over 6 years and kept the Baedekers in the car whenever we traveled.