The Rough Guide to Alaska

We ordered all the guides to Alaska, and this is just TOPS. We planned our own drive through, and then contacted a Alaska Tour & Travel and they booked the hotels, car, etc. Paul Whitfield has done a great job of putting together the information, and just so personable. He covers all seasons, mentions stays, stops not covered in the general books by [....], Fodor's, etc. FIVE STAR!

I used the "Rough Guide" on a recent visit to Southeastern Alaska. I found the recommendations regarding hotels and restaurants in Juneau, Ketchikan, and other cities to be accurate, useful, and up to date. The guide is well-illustrated and mapped and provides brief detail on places of interest and things to do. One of the best features of the "Rough Guide" are the abundant sidebars which offer the reader interesting tidbits of history, folklore, and Alaskan people. Also very good is the annotated reading list at the end of the book which recommends a large number of additional books to read. You will find just about everything you need to know in this guide to plan your trip and to learn what you should about Alaska. My only criticism is that it may be a bit skimpy on information for the fisherman and hunter -- both major attractions in Alaska. Smallchief

The Rough Guide To Alaska is the most complete and superbly organized of the travel guides to the northernmost American state. Along with comprehensive information on the vast Alaskan wilderness, there are reports on events and sights of Alaska's major cities and tourist destinations, as well as reliable recommendations for dining, lodging, and travel. Enhanced with more than 60 maps and full color photography, The Rough Guide To Alaska is the perfect trip planning resource.

This book is a good rough guide for anyone interested in visiting Alaska. While it does not get enough into many specifics notable attractions, it does often include sufficient references and resources to find what you want. While the author and editors may not agree, it does not adequately cover the topic of fishing opportunity in Alaska. It could include better references for those opportunities. The author has a decidedly European take on travel. For example, critiques of eating and drinking are given in comparison to the more liberal views on alcohol consumption typical of European norms. A good range of necessary topics is covered to allow a first-timer to plan his trip.