When we set our sights on visiting Greece we wanted more than a guidebook; we needed an insider’s look at the country, not just what to see and what to do.

You must read The Rough Guide to Greece to grasp the full concept of traveling in this culturally influenced part of the world that covers 50,949 square miles (131,957 square kilometers.) It is no bigger than most guidebooks, overflowing with first-hand knowledge of the country and its idyllic islands.

The precise directions included in the guidebook’s 1,100-plus pages are especially welcome if (like most of us) you want to see as much as possible during your visit. Remember it is physically impossible to cover everything unless you have unlimited time.

The short introductory section, with colorful images, will put you in the mood for exploring Greece . What follows are chapter after chapter of history, punctuated by reviews and tips on everything from accommodation to attractions to activities and yes, beaches! Each chapter has a page of highlights at the beginning and includes regional maps and city layouts.

It is also very handy that time and distance is discussed (and even how to get there.)

It is important to pore over every page for the places you want to go well in advance of your departure. Every evening it is a good idea to re-read the information on the next day’s plans and if you’re not too flaked out afterwards, take a look to see if your impressions match those in the book.

Although the plan was to cruise on a yacht around the islands there are times when traveling by ferry, bus and taxi are necessary, and this is where information on schedules, fares and distance can help to keep you on track.

If you plan to visit Athens, see below for the Rough Guides Athens DIRECTIONS

It’s the best of both worlds - a handbook on Athens that features an e-book. The CD contains the full text and photos as seen in the print version, and important web sites mentioned are just a click away!

Whether it’s your first visit or fourth, it’s a slender, concise book - easy-to-read overviews of the city, influenced by location on every topic from museums to dining, entertainment and shopping.

It is based on this little guidebook that we wandered in and around Athens at leisure. Check out the “ Athens on foot” section, almost like following a tour guide without the guide. If you want to see the highlights listed just turn to the pages noted in grey for fuller descriptions.

There is a mini city map on the inside cover and the inner flap shows the three lines of the Athens Metro. The Metro is a safe, reliable method of transportation. If you have the time and aren’t “artifact weary” there are several items on display that were discovered during building excavations.

Language should never be a barrier amongst travelers. The final pages contain common words you might want to practice using, or at least recognize when you hear them. There is also a list of words that come in handy when ordering from restaurant menus.

Athens DIRECTIONS is part of the first-ever published series of petite city guides ( London , Paris, Venice , Lisbon and San Francisco .)

Rough Guides is recognized for its trailblazer publications that include over 230 travel guides and maps* for more than 130 countries, plus dictionary phrasebooks, music books, reference titles and world music CDs.

These “indestructible” maps are water and rip-proof.