Frommer's Arizona 2005 (Frommer's Complete)

Rating:
Summary: Great place, book needs updating and expanding
Review: This is a useful book for basic overview and somewhat more. I am a fan of Frommer's overall, but there were some gaps in this one. Among them: Information about the state of the roads a traveler may encounter; Additional website information; Where to find more reasonably priced merchandise in some areas; What's missing in certain areas; and What to expect when you get there.
- A description of some of the roads is critical because some of the roads are either dirt roads and/or very steep and winding roads. This is very true in the Prescott/Jerome area, as well as in and around Sedona. In some locations a 4 wheel drive vehicle is a must. With this information travelers can choose a self-guided adventure or a local tour. The "How to Get There" sections need to incorporate this information. Routes may be direct, but that doesn't mean they are easily traveled.
- Additional website information will help travelers do additional research before they arrive.
- Some of the areas in AZ are frequent tourist destinations and the prices reflect that. I learned from hotel staffers and other locals where more reasonably priced goods could be purchased.
- AZ is a great location for an outdoors person, but in certain locations, supermarkets, for example, are few and far between. It would be helpful to have information about where to buy food and outdoor gear for those interested in day trips.
- AZ is also a growing time share location. It's useful to know this in advance for two reasons: 1. To be prepared when a vendor approaches you and tries to persuade you using various incentives to hear his/her spiel. 2. How to take advantage of these offers. Time share information booths have great information about local tours and can and will offer complimentary tours if you hear their pitch. Even if you don't listen to their sales routine, you can still get free maps and other information about local tours, events and transportation at these locations
Other things about this book. The Grand Canyon section was very good.
I will still buy Frommer's guidebooks, but this one wasn't up to their usual standard.