The Rough Guide to First-Time Asia

Seems to have a wide range of useful information for first-timers to numerous countries in a region that is striking for its diversity from one country to another. The book is geared more for independent, personal travelers and not so much for business travelers (which I was).

This book offers a general overview of what to expect in this region of the world. I found it most useful in helping me choose which contires I want to visit and which I don't. It lists the highlights on what each contry has to offer as far as touring and cost and informs about which countries to use caution when visiting. At no point do the authors tell you not to visit a country -- very unbiased. I particularly liked the itineraries they offered for 1- 2- and 4-week stays. They really helped in my planning. The book doesn't mention hotels and all that which is exactly what I wanted -- a gerneral introduction. Nothing is sugar-coated and they tell you about things as they actually are. I found their cross-references (further reading web site suggestions)to be of great value. The information offered is not very dated so if you have a strict budget, you can buy a previous edition and do just fine as you will likely want to buy a more specific book that tells you about hotels and prices at a later point. Overall, it's a great way to start planning your big trip.

I bought the first the first edition of this book and I read it in 1 night. I found it very interesting and a with a very special writing style. The short stories included in each chapter from real experiences are really advisable in preparing a trip.Once in Asia (Tokyo) for studying I read it again several times to plan a big trip after my studies. I think the book concentrates in many places for long trips and it is not useful for a short trip trough Asia for the very "first time". Particularly, I would like next editions of these book will include ideas for routes of trips beginning in Asia. Also, it must include data about travel agencies in Asia that the authors who has traveled here for more than 15 years, should know. As language is particularly a barrier in all these countries, all we would hope English speaking in those agencies.But anyway, I strongly recommend this book. It is very useful to plan a trip according to particular interests.

This is an excellent book for those planning or even just thinking of trip to one or more Asian countries. The information is general but widely applicable and includes most of the common sense and practical tips that nevertheless one may not know or just forget. For people with Asian traveling experience, it will be a good confirmation and reinforcement of basic traveling know-how they've acquired. The writing is excellent, the anecdotes are great, and the writers show a fine sensibility. You can tell they have a great deal of experience.