27 of 28 people found the following review helpful
More like a fan book than a travel book,
February 6, 2009 Dinornis (New England, USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Moon Belize (Moon Handbooks) (Paperback)
I have used Moon guides in the past and have found the editorial approach, quality of writing, and level of content to be excellent (the Cuba guide is a particular gem!) The Belize guide is sadly not in this category. It reads more in the tone of a Chamber of Commerce report- everything is great, fascinating, the best, delicious, and comfortable. Anyone who has travelled anywhere outside of a luxury resort knows that simply isn't true, and it isn't true for Belize either.
The Moon guide also does not appear to be geared toward budget travellers, leaving out important information like how to get to and from the airport while avoiding the $25 tourist charge. The shortchanging of budget information is a particular problem in a country that is substantially more expensive than its neighbor Guatemala.
The guide also leaves out the city of Flores, Guatemala, but includes Tikal. Getting to and from Tikal (except on an expensive guided tour) almost always involves travel...Read more
17 of 17 people found the following review helpful
Essential reading for anyone contemplating a trip!,
October 29, 2007 Brendan Ross - See all my reviews
This review is from: Moon Belize (Moon Handbooks) (Paperback)
Inspired travel-writer Joshua Berman lays Belize out like a fine banquet table in this indispensable guidebook. Contemplating Belize as your next port of call? Get this book. I liked it in my armchair, and loved it in the bush. Joshua's wonderful photos and exposition set the standard for Moon, a terrific publisher, but his practical advice is what really justifies the purchase. I'd wanted to stay on a budget, treating myself right on the occasional night, and I found Joshua's advice to be gold. I ended enjoying the trip so much I bought his Moon Handbooks Nicaragua (Moon Handbooks). Not sure if I'll two-peat to Central America for my next trip, but it's amazing how an unfamiliar place can feel like home with the right guide. Highly recommended.
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful
Best of the best guidebooks for Belize,
April 30, 2008 Caryn "Dr. C" (Fredericksburg, VA, United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Moon Belize (Moon Handbooks) (Paperback)
I've lived and worked in Belize for approximately 6 months/year for the past 10 years. The Moon Handbooks Belize is the most accurate and up to date book on the market. Josh has spent months in Belize to insure it's accuracy...everything thing he writes is from first hand experience.