The book at times patronises the reader, other times exaggerates (it says that Canberra is definitely worth visiting: I've asked all my Oz friends whether they'd go there and they said no, especially the one who was born there).

So come on Lonely Planet, please don't rest on your laurels and boast about 25 years of travel guide writing. Be more objective and also give us better maps (maybe fold-out ones for principal cities) where you don't lose yourself because the road displayed is in the join of the book.

A string bookmark would also be good, like in the "Europe on a Shoestring". Why did you stop doing it?

All in all, I would still recommend this to any potential reader and buyer. Heaps better than the "Let's Go: Australia" that's for sure.


The Bible for Australian travellers   October 19, 1999
 2 out of 2 found this review helpful

After reading just about every travel book on Australia, The Lonely Planet guide provides an excellent mix of content and depth for exploring a continent as vast as Oz. Maps are detailed enough to point you in the right direction and start exploring. The dry and balanced commentary provides a perspective from someone you know has travelled to and seen the subject you are reading about. This book is for anyone travelling independently. There are very few questions you will be left asking.

Excellent value for money!


Excellent - Surely covers everything you'll need to know!   January 16, 1999
 0 out of 1 found this review helpful

I haven't even gone to Australia yet but reading this book I already feel more aquainted with the place. The initial chapters cover facts about the country and the people and give a greater understanding about what Australia is all about. Then there is general travel information followed by the the bulk of the book which examines what there is to see and do in each state. Attention to detail is brilliant. I just can't wait to see it in reality - if it is half as good as the book describes I may never come back!