Travel Handbook

Do you know how to tip in Europe? Can you read basic road signs?

Before you answer with an indignant "yes," consider most North Americans who have not been to Europe probably lack these skills. These and hundreds of similar deficiencies could be costly.

Author John Bermont admits to making plenty of mistakes in his first visits to Europe. Since then, he's lived in several European cities, and he knows daily routines on both sides of the Atlantic.

He's been writing and updating How to Europe since 1982. Photographs carefully document the signs, symbols, and situations you'll see. It's as if the world's most patient travel guide is in your living room, giving you the basics without embarrassing you.

Beyond the novice's needs, Bermont devotes considerable effort to helping those who might want to live in Europe. The rise of multi-national companies, study-abroad programs, and work offers in eastern Europe make the advice more timely than ever.

You won't find stunning photography, trendy club reviews, or recommended hotels. For those, save your $28.50 USD for another book.

Veteran travelers might choose another book too, although it is entertaining for any travel enthusiast.

Consider Bermont's advice for combating groups of scam artists intent on picking your pockets: "Start filming them with your videorecorder. It is simply amazing how fast they scatter."

How to Europe is a practical supplement to more traditional guides, and should be required reading for the novice.