February 22nd, 2010 
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- ISBN13: 9780470247617
- Condition: NEW
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description
America’s #1 bestselling travel series Written by more than 175 outspoken travelers around the globe, Frommer’s Complete Guides help travelers experience places the way locals do. More annually updated guides than any other series 16-page color section and foldout map in all annual guides Outspoken opinions, exact prices, and suggested itineraries Dozens of detailed maps in an easy-to-read, two-color design Tu… More >>
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THIS BOOK IS INFORMATIVE AND A PLEASURE TO READ. IT IS MORE THAN JUST A GUIDE BOOK. IT SHOWS THE AUTHORS LOVE OF THE COUNTRY AND IT’S PEOPLE. AS FOR THE ERRORS IN PRICES….WELL I REMEMBER WHEN 39 CENTS BOUGHT A QUART OF MILK.TIMES CHANGE AND SO DO PLACES OF INTEREST. WHEN COUNTRIES SEE THE “UGLY AMERICAN”PRICES HAVE A WAY OF RISING. AS FOR SERVICE….GET A LIFE!!!
Rating: 5 / 5
I found this book different and helpful than every other this type of travel guides about Turkey.When I visited recommended places in the book I thought the book is written very objective.
Thank you for writing this book.
Rating: 5 / 5
This guide book is disappointing for two reasons: some incorrect/nonhelpful information, and an annoying tone. I have been a loyal Frommer’s traveler, but this book will make me think twice before buying Frommer’s again.
Incorrect and non-helpful information: The admission prices to many sites in Istanbul were incorrect. The posted prices were usually twice as expensive. In addition, the detailed information on the Topkapi Palace (which occupies several pages) is just a verbatim restatement of the tour. I usually expect some additional insight from a guide book. Furthermore, one of the recommended hotels, the Hotel Armada, had terrible service, and was quite a disappointment.
Annoying tone: I expect Frommers to read like a trusted guide, not like Elle magazine (previous stomping grounds of the author). Some of the innuendo was simply inappropriate for many travelers. For example, she commented with a joking tone on the sexual relations within the harem (when the Sultan was not around). Although the tone may not resonate well with families, single independent women may appreciate the perspective.
I gave the book two stars because it did adequately cover the basics, and some of the tips were helpful (how to avoid beig ripped off in a cab, etc…). However, I think everyone should be as unforgiving on the factual errors and poor recommendations.
Among fellow US travelers, Lonely Planet appeared to be the gold standard in Turkey and Istanbul.
Rating: 2 / 5
Don’t look for travel advice here.
Lots of elitist opinions on Turkey’s history and the growth of tourism there over the past twenty years. O tempore o mores !
oi veh !
A glance at the “best beaches” will give the reader a quick lesson in obfuscation and double talk. While bemoaning the fact that most of the best beaches have been “snatched up by big hotel chains” and access is not free, the author manages to compile a less than worthy list of nine beaches.And on that list are harbours and beaches which have been “snatched up” by the big hotel chains( read hotel chains as the bad guys!) Quality of sand and water temperature are virtually ignored. When and where you can enjoy the best swimming is not even mentioned. Ms. Levine has time for some great advice on behalf of the turtles and the reader is advised to stay away from “off- limits” protected areas ! No kidding !
All this before you get to page 10.
It gets worse. Check the “Where to Stays” and be prepared for listing after listing of over-priced cookie cutter hotels and resorts. Its difficult to make Turkey into Velveeta Cheese but this Frommer’s did it !
Ed von Lemcke
Rating: 1 / 5
The author of this weak travel guide, Lynn Levine, begins with a revealing story. When she was in college, her roommate told her that she was going for vacation in Turkey. Levine, responded, “How does she pick these places (expletive deleted)?” This leaves the reader with one question: Where’s your roommate, since I’d rather travel with her?”
Although Levine claims her comment was made out of “youthful ignorance,” it is a telling sign that she lacks the sense of adventure of her roommate. Although she may be a student of Turkish history, this credential is not enough. I want to travel with someone who, by the time she was in college, was not clueless about Turkey as an amazing destination. Again, it’s her roommate who had the passion for adventure.
Accordingly, I did not trust Levine to be my guide when I went to Turkey. Yes, I did go to Istanbul and Cappadocia a few weeks ago, and went it alone. It’s an awesome place for those willing to poke their heads into dark alleys. . . where friendly gold workers and tea brewers await. I just don’t believe that Levine is this type of traveler so I left this book at home.
Rating: 1 / 5