Fodor's London Companion. - book reviews

By Louise Nicholson (1993, Fodor's Travel Publications, 201 E. 50th St., New York, NY 10022 -- $17.00, 376 pgs.).

Fodor's London Companion": don't leave home without it! Louise Nicholson has succeeded in putting together a most definitive guide for the independent traveler.

We have visited London six times and discovered many things on our own, but the next time we go I am including this book in my luggage.

Each section of the book is packed with more history and information than any manageable guidebook I have seen,

I especially enjoyed Mrs. Nicholson's approach to walking tours. With each, the first item of information is a spot from which to get an aerial view (a tall building, a bridge, a terrace or a monument). This vantage point gives the overall picture of an area and the reader is then led from one point of interest to another. The directions are excellent and should be easy to follow.

Included in the book is advice from an insider. Mrs. Nicholson gives tips for seeing attractions and avoiding the crowds; lists places to eat, stay and shop; tells how to survive the confusion that London offers to a first-time visitor, and provides a monthly calendar of festivals and events.

The only drawback to the book for me was the cross-referencing, which became tedious at times; however, it was definitely worth reading everything.

If you are planning a trip to London, buy this book early so you have time to read and reread.

Mrs. Nicholson's delight in London dances over the pages as she wends her way through the city. To me, the book was entertaining, informative and fun. I recommend it as a terrific guide for the first-time visitor to London or to veteran visitors!

COPYRIGHT 1994 Martin Publications, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group