The updated version of The Rough Guide to the Caribbean is an informed travel companion every visitor to the islands should keep at hand.

Over 50 islands are covered, including the Bahamas , yet it is an easy read. If there is a mountain to climb, a cave to explore or a reef to snorkel, rest assured Rough Guides knows they exist.

Exploring on your own is fun, but unless you are retired, rich or both, vacation time is valuable and it’s best to make advance plans. Friends and family love to talk about all the “must see” and “must do” things, but there is always something new to discover, and Rough Guides make it their business to keep on top of everything.

While there are some French, Dutch and Spanish speaking islands, English is the universal language and since the Caribbean caters to tourists there is no need to worry, but there are some important facts that can be overlooked that can cause last-minute headaches.

The French West Indies accepts euros, the official currency, as well as American dollars, but did you know that sodas can cost more than a glass of wine at some bars? Also, keep in mind visitors are required to pay a departure tax, preferably in local money.

This edition also features “How to pick a beach” although it will be a toss up judging from each island vying for attention – Antigua is said to be packed with 365 beaches, the Bahamas touts theirs with pink and white sand, while the more secluded ones are likely located in the smaller Windward islands like Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Martinique and Guadeloupe.

(On a recent trip to Grenada the editor found the guidebook to be an excellent source of unbiased information in evaluating the island’s recovery from hurricane Ivan in 2004.)

Bridget Azeez