Vacations Books


Books-Under-Review-->Society-->Lifestyle Choices-->Childfree-->Vacations-->78
Related Subjects: North America Caribbean Europe Oceania
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250
Vacations Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Vacations
Cooking In Paradise: Culinary Vacations Around the World
Published in Paperback by St. Martins (2001-04-16)
Authors: Joel Naftali and Lee Naftali
List price: $15.95
New price: $14.79
Used price: $6.58

Average review score:

Don't Waste Your Time
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2001-08-02
Having attended several cooking schools in Europe, I was eager to read COOKING IN PARADISE. I am sorry to say that I was very disappointed in this book for several reasons. First, the majority of the schools listed were way out of my price range. Most of the courses started at $2,500 for five days not including airfare. I don't think that the majority of average recreational home cooks would be willing to spend that type of money for a short cooking course. While the descriptions of the courses and their locations was enticing, the cost of most of the classes listed was certainly a turn off. The second major fault I found with the book was its inaccurate information. Two years ago I attended the Podere le Rose cooking school listed on pg. 87 of the book. The description was fairly good but then I noticed that the address listed for the school was incorrect as they had moved at least three years ago. I found this odd since the book was printed a short time ago. I assumed that this was the only glitch and continued to read the book. Of the five schools listed in the book that I decided to research on the internet, three of them had incorrect websites. I know that websites do change but I think that the authors of this book did not follow up and check their information before having the final version of the book printed. There are many spelling errors, one school is listed as Cucina Devina (which is incorrect) in one paragraph and in the next it is referred to as Cucina Divina. There are no photos in the book which leads me to wonder if anyone really visited these schools. Photos would have been a wonderful addition. The recipes in the book were average and some contained ingredients which would not be readily available in the United States. If you are not seriously considering attending a cooking school and simply want to read about what they are like then you might enjoy this book, but for those of you who are looking for a book with solid useable information then this is not for you.

Save Your Money
Helpful Votes: 13 out of 16 total.
Review Date: 2001-08-04
Having attended several cooking schools throughout Europe, I was really looking forward to "Cooking in Paradise". I'm sorry to say that I was very disappointed. While the descriptions of the cooking schools make the reader want to hop on the next plane, the prices of the schools reviewed are prohibitive. I doubt that the average home cook would want to spend $2,500 for a 5 day cooking school, not including international airfare. I had hoped that there would be classes in all price ranges listed, but the majority were very high end. The book is dull in that it has no photographs. There are many glaring errors in the book such as; in one paragraph a school is listed as Devina Cucina (which is incorrect) and in the next Divina Cucina. About two years ago I attended the Podere Le Rose cooking school listed in the book. I noticed that the address listed for the school was an address that was old, the school had moved at least 3 years ago. Of the 5 schools in the book that I decided to research on the internet, 3 of them had incorrect websites and addresses. Did anyone really go to these schools or was this information just pinched from the internet many years ago? The recipes in the book are average but many of the ingredients listed are ingredients which are not readily found in the United States. This book might be enjoyable reading for those readers who are not seriously planning on attending a cooking school, but for those who are looking for a reliable source of information this is not the book for you.

Cooking in Paradise :
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2001-06-18
Great book! It lists hundreds of culinary vacations, from gourmet five-star resorts, to living on a farmhouse learning traditional country cooking. Many of the vacations are in France and Italy, but there are also many in Mexico, Asia, England, --and a couple in Brazil, Turkey, Greece, Morocco, etc. Descriptions are really good--you get a very strong feeling for the place. It's not only for experienced chefs or serious students, either, but for anyone who loves cooking and travel (I found it in the travel section,actually, and don't know what's better--the cooking or the activities, like visiting local markets and horseback riding and spa treatments and language classes.) Plus, I made the Pad Thai (the books has a recipe every four orfive pages--I'm going to try the 'Fried Milk,' a strange-looking dessert from Basque Country in Spain, next), which turned out to be easier than it looked, and delicious!

THE BEST OF TRAVEL AND OF COOKING!!!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2001-06-14
I found this book to be so helpful in planning my vacation. The listings are comprehensive, the descriptions fun and substantive, and the recipes are spectacular! Even if you don't want to take a cooking vacation (but I'm betting you will after reading this book) you will still enjoy taking a mental vacation as you read it. Cooking in Paradise combines the best of travel and cooking writing in a unique, creative way. Great gift for those planning a honeymoon or a romantic getaway, too. The food of love!

Cooking in Paradise : Culinary Vacations Around the World
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2001-06-18
Great book! It lists hundreds of culinary vacations, from gourmet five-star resorts, to living on a farmhouse learning traditional country cooking. Many of the vacations are in France and Italy, but there are also many in Mexico, Asia, England, --and a couple in Brazil, Turkey, Greece, Morocco, etc. Descriptions are really good--you get a very strong feeling for the place. It's not only for experienced chefs or serious students, either, but for anyone who loves cooking and travel (I found it in the travel section, actually, and don't know what's better--the cooking or the activities, like visiting local markets and horseback riding and spa treatments and language classes.) Plus, I made the Pad Thai (the books has a recipe every four or five pages--I'm going to try the 'Fried Milk,' a strange-looking dessert from Basque Country in Spain, next), which turned out to be easier than it looked, and delicious!

Vacations
Islands of Intrigue (Nancy Drew & Hardy Boys Super Mysteries #27)
Published in Library Binding by Bt Bound (1999-10)
Author: Carolyn Keene
List price: $11.80

Average review score:

UGH!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-30
Don't waste your money! This book was so boring. It had nothing good about it. The plot was confusing and dull, there was no Nancy/Frank stuff, and once again, Nancy got the small potatoes case while the Hardys were chasing international spies or whatever. Huge disappointment. I had to force myself to read it so that my money wouldn't go to waste with the book just sitting on my shelf.

yeah it was good!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 1999-08-08
When are ya'll people gonna learn that the whole Nancy and Frank thing is utterly and completely over. They kissed how many times two thats right only TWO. Then after that they admitted that it felt very very wrong and very awkward. I mean they say that they LOVE Ned and Callie they just don't love other people they love Callie and Ned. So get out of your head that there is ever gonna be a thang going on between Nancy and Frank!

I loved this book but I do hate it that Nancy ALWAYS DOES get the stupid and almost worthless case. It's been a while since I've read this book so I don't know whats going on but I know she has a crapy case. Like the one where she's in Memphis and she has recover a stolen guitar Puh-leeze!!! Where "The Hardy Boys" are tracking international spies, assassins, terroists etc. etc. It always seems that way no wait it is always that way! Other than all that "other stuff" it was a pretty good book ;)

Islands of Intrigue -- Fabulous!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2003-07-04
Among the rocky coasts, shimmering turquoise waters and ancient ruins of Greece you can rest assured that a mystery lies in wait for Nancy Drew and the Hardy brothers.
In Islands of Intrigue, Nancy Drew, Bess Marvin and the Hardys meet up in Greece by chance. For the girls, this Grecian vacation is nothing but a pleasure trip, but for the Hardys -- it's work. A dozen Phoenix missiles disappeared from a military base near Athens, along with an undercover agent. The Network is convinced that the agent, Terry Brodsky, is going to sell the missiles to another country.
At a smart cafe in Athens, Nancy Drew overhears a man threatening to kill a girl. Nancy offers her help to the young woman, Alexis Constantine, who is the daughter of one of the richest men in the world. Suddenly, Alexis disappears.
Nancy and the Hardys find that their cases are starting to connect...
Islands of Intrigue is one of the better books of the later Super Mysteries. It comes before the series jumped the shark with a bunch of enviromental and animal rights issues in books like "At All Costs," and "Murder on the Fourth of July."
True, you won't find the "Nancy/Frank" stuff in this book, but too much of the attraction actually takes away from the mystery.

A good book
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 1998-08-27
This book was very cool - and is a good read if you're the type of person who is into "international mysteries/James Bond-ish" stuff. I found it to be one of the better of the Super Mysteries. It is fast paced and the literary style is especially remarkable. However, the frequent shifts in the narrative voice, characteristic of all Supermysteries, is quite annoying.

The review of Islands of Intrigue
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-30
As a big Nancy Drew fan I found this book exciting and one of the best books in the Super Mystery series. It has excitment and suspence, not to mention mystery! As Nancy finds herself and Bess( Nancy's best friend) in the romantic islands of Greece she also finds herself a mystery as a new friend of hers,Alexis Canstantine, is kidnapped. Well just as she always does, Nancy sees this as a chance for a much enjoyable mystery. Meanwhile the famous brothers, Frank and Joe Hardy, also find them selves in Greece but for a different reason. They are there to follow a man accused of stealing a dozen of U.S. super powered misiles. I give this book two thumbs up! It was an exciting page turner, you won't be able to put it down!

Vacations
Jesus' Day Off
Published in Hardcover by Doubleday Books for Young Readers (1998-10)
Author:
List price: $7.95
Used price: $4.86

Average review score:

Don't Believe The Hype - This is GREAT!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2000-12-15
I have a 3 year old and a 1 year old. This is a fantastic book to introduce small children not only to the BIG concepts of religion (eg: God & Jesus' parent/child relationship, the apostles, etc...) but to the compelling person of Jesus himself. FAR from blasphemic, irreverent or disrespectful - this book paints a picture of Jesus LIKE the children who read it - but with an even more special relationship to God! Aside from the positive religious message it teaches - the book also puts forward an important message about how - when you take good care of yourself - you can take better care of others. Christians and Non-Christians should be able - through their subsequent talk with their children - put the content into proper perspective for their kids (depending on their views). A fundamentalist could make it a great way to draw kids into their savior. A non-believer could use it to introduce their children to the important historical figure of Jesus. It's a win/win situation.

Absolutely hilarious.
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2000-12-04
Okay first off, I'd like to point out the fact that I am an Atheist and if I was Christian I probably would burn this book. But from a non-Christian point of view this book is very crazy and insane making it very enjoyable. The plot: It appears ol' Jesus is having a bad day and all his miracles aren't quite what they used to be. (Ex: He tries to walk on water and sinks) So basically the Jesmeister says, "I need a vacation from being a savior for a day. The next 20 or so pages has some hobo doing some crazy antics. (I say hobo because Jesus wouldn't be caught dead doing some of these idiotic things.) If you're a devout Christian, though, I warn you, you are going to HATE this book like the devil himself. But if you're one of the other kinds of people by all means read on.

Pointed commentary for adults!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2000-04-12
Jesus' Day Off can be a humorous way to make a point to adults who feel they must maintain control of their time and effort. Only when we all take time off to appreciate God's magnificent creation - both our own bodies and the rest of the universe - can we see that we are not in fact in control. God is. God rested after creation to celebrate the magnificence, and if God can rest, so can we! Amen!

This book is humorous and age appropriate, great fun!
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 1999-04-03
This book is excellent to teach young children that religion can be fun. The illustrations are fabulous. They really draw the child into the story. In a word, fantastic!

NOT FUNNY
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 21 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-18
This book is a total insult to Jesus Christ, and most Christians will be very offended by it. The light-hearted comical approach here is way off base- totally inappropriate. Jesus is not some fictitious fairy tale character to be toyed with- He's the real thing, the Son of God (that's what I believe). It's ridiculous to suggest that He sank in the water. Reducing Him to such an irreverant cartoon is shameful. I don't recommend this book to anyone, except as an example of what NOT to write about Jesus. This book couldn't be farther from the real Jesus (it reminds me of "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "The Last Temptation of Christ" in the way that it is a total departure from the Biblical portrayal of Christ).

Vacations
National Geographic Guide to Family Adventure Vacations: Wildlife Encounters, Cultural Explorations, and Learning Escapes in the U.S. and Canada
Published in Paperback by National Geographic (2000-05-01)
Author: Candyce H. Stapen
List price: $25.00
New price: $0.27
Used price: $0.28

Average review score:

Just What We Were Looking For
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2002-11-07
This book gives you just enough information to help you to plan a great family vacation. They give you places and numbers to call to get more information on some great trips accross the country. For a busy parent who wnats to get more bang out of their short vaction this is a must have. We love the book.

A Great Guide for truly novel vacations!!!
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2000-08-27
This guide was a wonderful breath of fresh air. As parents of a 14 yr old we were really tired of the same old vacations and really had no idea that exploring North America could be so interesting. Our family used this book as a guide on a recent trip to Montana and South Dakota. It was a terific trip--from the Blackfeet tours to Little Big Horn to Lakota Pony Rides, we truly had a unique experience. Ms. Stapen's guide helped us navigate and explore the most interesting sites these states had to offer. The guide was very informative, especially pointing out those places that are "kid friendly". The book was even helpful in pointing out certain tours not especially suited for kids.---ie. the tour at Little Bighorn. While this did not stop us from going on tour, it did prepare us for the " are we finished yet" complaints of our 14 yr. old. I highly recommend this guide for anyone considering vacationing anywhere in the U.S. From the Pacific Northwest to the East Coast and throughout Canada, this book will help you if you are truly looking for a different type of vacation. I urge anyone to consult this guide---- it will open up a whole new world!

Don't judge this book by its cover!
Helpful Votes: 18 out of 19 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-29
As the mother of two active and intellectually curious boys, I was so disappointed with this National Geographic book that I am sorely tempted to return it to the publisher. My aim: to find some suggestions for hikes in the White Mountains and family resorts in New Hampshire for this summer and an exciting, wilderness approach to seeing the West for next summer. The cover: a healthy, athletic father and son, in a kayak on a pristine lake. The subtitle: wildlife encounters, cultural explorations and learning escapes in the US and Canada. The inside: Connecticut's only entry is an Indian museum at the Mohegan Sun gambling casino; four of Massachusett's five entries are museums in downtown Boston and the fifth a small recreation of the Plymouth Colony; New York's six entries include three museums in New York City, two adult continuing education programs in upstate NY and a weekend workshop on Indian culture in the Catskills. I could go on ,but it would only bore you. In short, every entry I read (and I quote only those states I am familiar with) could have been found in literally any run- of -the- mill (free) guidebook found in any hotel loby, restaurant or Chamber of Commerce office. (SeaWorld and Busch Gardens in Florida?? Give me a break!). I implore you to save your money and pass on this book!

Fun with the family
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2000-10-04
Stapen's book on family adventure travel is one of the best of its kind. Our family was looking for new types of vacations (other than the usual places like DisneyWorld, the beach, etc) that would cater to children of different ages. We are looking forward to trying out several of the recommendations, such as a night at the zoo, space camp, dogsledding, llama trekking and exploring native american culture. The writeups are well done and the book is very enjoyable. A must for families. I am over 50 but could not put that in Box 5 for some reason .

copied and pasted from somewhere
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2000-09-04
This book is a real dissapointment. There is no 'adventure' here. It's just a list of museums from around the country. Now these are nice museums, but perusing the AAA Tourbooks will give you the same information for free. This books is a waste of money.

Vacations
Emerald Greens: The Essential Guide to Golf Vacations in Ireland
Published in Paperback by Interlink Publishing Group (2000-10)
Author:
List price: $16.95
New price: $8.94
Used price: $2.48

Average review score:

Can't we all just get along?
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-04
..."The Emerald Greens" is the perfect book for my needs. Her comments about playing golf on a conveyor belt really struck home-all of the sudden I wanted to avoid Ballybunion! In large part, the book met my needs and I used it to help me select the courses I wanted to play. So, put that in your hat if you're planning a trip. The book definitely has value in that it nicely combines local attractions beyond golf.

But I also have a number of complaints about the book. First, it's a travel book and I just couldn't ignore the stunning lack of pictures-especially of the courses. I'd rather look at 3 or 4 representative pictures of each course than wade through mind-numbing text about how water affects your tee-shot on the 4th hole. I also would have appreciated some kind of course rating system (3 stars or whatever) based on the author's judgment as to how tough a given course is, how scenic and so on. Or, perhaps, some authoritative, judgment statements about a given course as opposed to letting me develop a theory about it based on a page of text.

It's clear to me that the author has firm grasp on both the game of golf and what Ireland has to offer-but there may be better books out there. I hate being negative here because it was a well written and informative book, it just did not present the courses in a way I would have appreciated...

Not worth it.
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2000-11-16
I purchased Emerald Greens to help me plan a golf vacation to Ireland. I was disappointed in that the book was not helpful at all. The author focuses on the obscure courses and ignores any well known venues. I'm not a total golf snob who only plays the premier courses, but if I am going to go all the way to Ireland to play golf I want to play some of the historic courses. If you have unlimited time and a limited budget this book would be helpful in finding courses to play. For my money Golfing in Ireland by Armstrong was much more useful.

A charming and informative work
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2001-01-10
It is not often that you pick up a book about golf courses and find it hard to put down. This inspirational book is well researched both in terms of the Golf courses and the local history, geography etc, but it's strength lies in the author's ability to convey her own evident passion for the subject by weaving these strands together to give an evocative picture of the places and give you a feel for the rich culture and history. I am a keen 10 handicap golfer and have visited Ireland many times over a number of years, this book really captures the charm of playing golf in Ireland. This will be the second thing I pack on my next trip - after the golf clubs of course.

The author writes back
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2000-11-27
I am sorry the reader from Los Altos was disappointed with "Emerald Greens" but I set out to write a book that featured terrific golf courses that are not on the package tour route and that can be played for less than £50 sterling. It was also intended for the non-golfing companions of golfers and for golfers who like to discover something of the country in which they are playing and who take time to "smell the flowers." That's why I describe castles and gardens and scenic drives and tell you the names of the mountains you can see while you're playing or just driving between courses. The famous links at Ballybunion, Lahinch, Royal Portrush and Portmarnock can't be played for less than £50 at any time of the year. Neither can famous parkland courses like the K Club and Druid's Glen. However, Royal County Down (rated 3rd in the British Isles) Waterville, Baltray (a real conoisseur's course and a favourite of professional golfers)The European Club ARE included in the book and can all be played at bargain rates. Moreover, Ballybunion languished in obscurity until discovered and publicised by Tom Watson. Those who read about the courses in "Emerald Greens" will discover courses that rank with the best and that aren't overrun with visitors. I love Ballybunion, but I feel like I'm playing on a conveyor belt. Play - for example - Tulfarris in County Wicklow, Baltray in County Louth, Portstewart in County Derry, Carne, Enniscrone in Counties Sligo and Mayo (there are too many fine courses to mention)and see if you agree with me. They are all described in the book. Read the book - divided into 14 holiday areas - contact the tourist office in any area you fancy. They are all very scenic. The addresses and telephone numbers are supplied for each area. Be adventurous. Book your own car and accomodation. Each of the areas described could be covered in a week or even a weekend. Could I suggest flying to Belfast, taking the short 35 minute car journey to Royal County Down - one of the greatest links in the world - playing it and two other terrific links courses, each within 30 minutes drive of Royal County Down and seeing something of the beatiful countryside (described in the book) as well? I don't think you'll be disappointed. At least I hope not!

Vacations
FamilyFun Vacation Guide: New England
Published in Paperback by Disney Editions (2003-04-01)
Author: tk
List price: $17.95
New price: $2.88
Used price: $1.82

Average review score:

FamilyFun Vacation Guide: New England
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-18
I have read this book cover to cover and absolutely love it! I am in the process of planning our summer vacation; this book is so informative and helpful. I am looking forward to a GREAT summer vacation with my family.
I'll let you know....

OK
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-05
I grew up in New England and wanted to get a refresher. It was OK but I wanted more.

It was geared to entertaining a family with young kids, not us any more.

So so, but not everything I had hoped for
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-10
We just got back from our New England trip and used this book as much as possible. While it had some useful items, overall we found the AAA Guide more useable and helpful. This text was out of date on some items (the LL Kids no longer exists, we discovered, after a drive to Freeport, ME) and for many others it exagerated its "wow" factor. It also doesn't distinguish between places for small toddlers (the Portland, ME children's museum which my 4 year old loved) versus older kids (like my 10 year old who was board at the Portland musuem). Places are identified by address and phone only (no directions), the maps are difficult to use as they only show parts of each state (be sure to get a New England road map from AAA). Also, the restaurant recommendations are good for the most part only if you are looking for standard kids menu fare, i.e., chicken nuggets, etc. Our kids want better food, e.g., lobster while in Maine, and so we had better luck on our own (or from recommendations from the "locals", like ordering take out lobster cooked at Bayleys in Old Orchard Beach and eating it back at our condo (with our own side dishes) and in a more relaxed state than we could ever have at a restaurant with 3 kids.

While I wouldn't discourage you from getting it since there are some helpful ideas, don't expect to rely on it as your primary tour book.

Great book!
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 11 total.
Review Date: 2003-08-04
I bought this book because are planning a trip to Cape Cod. It was very informative and answered all of my questions. I highly recommend it if you have children because it offered hints and tips about traveling with children, price ranges for each activity and things you should not miss while in each vacation spot. The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is the format. Sometimes a "hint" or description of a place would start in the middle of a page that was describing something else. It was a bit confusing at first. Otherwise it was well written and informative. I feel prepared to leave for Cape Cod (or any New England spot) today!!

Vacations
Little Retreats
Published in Hardcover by Clarkson Potter (2001-06-12)
Author: Jane Tidbury
List price: $30.00
New price: $11.98
Used price: $3.80
Collectible price: $30.00

Average review score:

No Middle Ground
Helpful Votes: 22 out of 22 total.
Review Date: 2001-12-28
The Retreats are mostly exceedingly expensive or wildly funky (it takes a special person to really enjoy a sojourn in a teepee). The photography is beautiful, which is a saving grace for the book.

Perhaps this reader is overly attuned to comfort, but I was dismayed at all the circular stairways, ladders, and challenging skywalks to enter or navigate these homes-away-from homes. Some were set in such boggy, swampy areas, all I could think of were mosquitoes and other unpleasant insects. If readers are expecting examples in the United States, they will be disappointed; most of the retreats were set in the British Isles.

The book illustrates a variety of settings: seaside, desert, mountains, lake and forest as advertised. "Little Retreats" is fun to read, but I would not recommend it as a practical guide.

lots of great ideas: charming spots brought to life
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-02-19
a wonderful and diverse photo essay on many small houses around the world. Great detail provided - so great ideas that can be projected into your own project.
good writing providing background and approach to each house by its owners, great photos.

Lovely book...
Helpful Votes: 38 out of 39 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-13
Lovely book, wonderful photos of creative little retreats. Lovley word descriptions, too. But it was not what I was hoping for. Few interior shots that show how the spaces actually work. No floorplans, no useful information on how to plan or design a little retreat of your own. Lovely book though.

Perfect for what it is
Helpful Votes: 9 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2001-12-15
"Little Retreats" covers what it sets out to do. It's not a house plan or how-to book---and it doesn't claim to be. It succeeds in the task the author set for it, with pictures of charming, whimsical, personal homes. Places are quaint without lapsing over into funky and the text is concise. Looking through it is like a tiny vacation as one imagines having a private space of one's own as a refuge.

I rated it at four stars instead of five because while I like it, I'm not passionately in love with it or transformed by it. (The recently released "Storybook Style" raises the bar for perfection in a home & garden book, in my opinion.) It's an enjoyable book and I'm glad to have it in my collection.

Vacations
Vintage Cottages
Published in Hardcover by Gibbs Smith, Publisher (2007-04-23)
Author: Molly Hyde English
List price: $29.95
New price: $12.40
Used price: $11.88

Average review score:

Wonderful!
Helpful Votes: 11 out of 24 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-04
She did it again. Worth the wait...terrific new book.
Job well done Molly and Tom!
Love that they included the dogs.

Vintage Cottages for Dog Lovers
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 14 total.
Review Date: 2007-08-31
We love this book. So many excellent ideas. Our family being animal people, absolutely love that this book is dedicated to Buddy who happened to be at the right place at the right time. The cottages are beautiful as well as the landscapes and the celebration of four-legged friends is a beautiful plus!

This is an item we accidentally happened upon due to recommendation from previous purchases. We will certainly integrate some of the ideas in our tiny cottage as well with much enthusiasm. Very nice reading indeed and beautiful photography. It sits with pride on our coffee table for when the need for inspiration hits.

Vintage, yes, but also too cutesy, too styled.
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-23
I had high expectations for this book. Had I realized it was written by the same author as Camps and Cottages, I may have thought twice before I bought it.

Just like its sister book, Camps and Cottages, Vintage Cottages features California cottages exclusively. That should have been reflected in the title or subtitle.

Secondly, the photography disappointed. Too many little heavily styled micro views of bookcases and table tops. I longed for wider shots to get a better sense of the whole house.

And last, the spaces feel artificial to me. A heavy stylist's hand is evident in many of the photos. There is even an obvious product placement of the author's other book, Camps and Cottages.

If you are interested in real vintage cottages, spaces where people really live, the book to get is The Cottage Book: Living Simple and Easy.

VINTAGE COTTAGES
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 14 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-19
I HATE THIS BOOK!! THIS WAS A HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT--IT SHOULD BE CALLED VINTAGE CABINS. WHEN I THINK OF " VINTAGE COTTAGES " I THINK OF QUAINT VICTORIAN TYPE DWELLINGS. THE MAJORITY OF PHOTOS IN THIS BOOK DEPICT RUSTIC, BACK WOODS, NORTHERN CABIN TYPE HOMES. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS BOOK. THE BEST PART OF THIS BOOK IS THE COVER.

Vacations
What Katy Did Next
Published in Paperback by Dell Pub Co (1990-12)
Author: Susan Coolidge
List price: $3.50
Used price: $4.95
Collectible price: $34.00

Average review score:

What Katy Did Next (EasyRead Edition)
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-09
Rubbish!!

This was one of my favourite books when I was younger. This edition was a profound disappointment. There were typos on virtually every page and - it's acknowledged in the text - several pages were missing!

I will think twice about buying books from Amazon, and particular in EasyRead format, again.

A Lovely Book
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2004-03-07
When I found this series, I loved them. I went right through What Katy Did and What Katy Did at School. I love romance, and was excited when I found that there was romance in What Katy Did Next, I loved the book. But was slightly disappointed 3/4 through the book, and at the end. I must say again the book is a fabulous one, but if you are looking for romantic classics, I wouldn't turn to this series. There is very little romance I must say. And I was not pleased with the ending. But in spite of that, the series was delicious!

Very good book but sequel "Clover", is not readily available
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 1999-02-02
Since these books are by a classical author, one would expect all titles in the "Katy" series to be available.

This Book is Very...Good
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-08-02
I really liked "What Katy Did Next." I am a big fan of all of the Katy books, and, although this book is not quite as good as the others in the trio, it is still wholesome, descriptive, and, well--it has a touch of romance mixed in.
In "What Katy Did Next," Katy is invited to go to Europe for a year with her friends Mrs. Ashe and Amy. Katy promptly decides to go, packs her bags, and departs on a vessel bound for England. She stays in Europe for six months, sees the places she has dreamed about, and, as aforesaid, has a romantic scene just at the end.
This is a sweet and satisfying read, especially for girls 10-14.

Vacations
Bringing Your Brain on Vacation: A Guide to Central Florida for Tourists with a 3 Digit IQ
Published in Paperback by 1st Books Library (2003-04-21)
Author: Roddy J. Dryer
List price: $11.50
New price: $11.50
Used price: $1.97

Average review score:

A No-Brainer Common Sense Guide
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2004-02-19
I bought this book thinking it was going to be a guide to the artistic & cultural attractions of Central Florida. There was no description given on this site so I just assumed that's what it was. I purchased this book and was very disappointed. Even though it wasn't what I expected, I still have many other complaints about this book.

First of all, this book was very poorly organized. The author jumps around within many of the chapters, making you wonder whether you are on the getting here, accommodations or kids chapter. There were also no graphics whatsoever. Not even a list of bullet points. There is no index so if you have to look up something, you'll just have to read the entire book over again.

Be forewarned that the book does give any specific information about anything. It was the author's intent not to list any restaurants, hotels, etc. as this information is always changing and he did not want to have his book become outdated. I was OK with this and I thought it was a unique concept but it should be noted in Amazon.com's description (as most "guide" books are mainly just a book of lists). Come to think of it, I don't even think he mentions any theme park by name - that's how generic this book is.

I thought that most of the tips in here were common sense and didn't even need to be written down, published and sold! For example, there is a section about how to clean a wet toilet seat in a public restroom. The book also instructs you to wear sunscreen (in Florida, can you imagine?) and it tells you to make sure that your child knows your cell phone number. If someone has a 3-digit IQ, I think it is safe to say that they do not need to be told about these things.

Lastly, it was double spaced with large margins and a large font so it's more like a 50 page book instead of 164.

As a Central Florida resident, I am an annual passholder at most of the theme parks and I am a first-hand observer that most people "do not bring their brains with them when they go on vacation". My husband and I say this ALL the time so when I saw a book entitled "Bringing Your Brain on Vacation", I had to get it! Unfortunately it was not what I expected, was not informative and was not for tourists with a 3 digit IQ. Perhaps Mr. Dryer could have published this in pamphlet form and distributed to the many hotel brochure racks. I simply do not see the purpose of an entire book devoted to common sense tourist tips.

Perhaps, I think these are common sense since I've lived here for 3.5 years and have become quite the theme park guru to my friends and family. I just think an accurate description of this book on the amazon.com web site and a more accurate description on the book jacket is in order. I will be donating my copy to the local library. Maybe someone in Central Florida can get some use out of this book.

Very informative and funny!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2003-12-17
This book was great! I learned a lot about Central Florida from it and it was also hilarious! The writer has a wonderful way of informing you about the area whilst mocking everything possible. If your planning on vacationing in Central Florida and want an informative guide book that tells the truth in an interesting way, go for this book!

Good info for those on vacation
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2003-05-17
This book seemed to be very helpful to me and some of the others that I know that used this book. It's small, so it's easy to carry and it's cheaper than most other guidebooks (so I was actually able to carry it, rather than be forced to memorize the info).

I recommend this book if you're going to Florida for vacation.


Books-Under-Review-->Society-->Lifestyle Choices-->Childfree-->Vacations-->78
Related Subjects: North America Caribbean Europe Oceania
More Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250