Micheline LE GUIDE VERT Provence, 5e

Rating:
Summary: the grand daddy of french travel books
Review: I think you have to have a copy of the Green Guide in order to travel in Provence -- every tourist I saw on a recent trip had a copy. The reason for it is that the Michelin guides contain more detailed cultural and historical information, and better maps, than any other guides. They are a little dry though, so I really enjoyed mixing the Michelin with the guides from Cadogan. The two provide a good mix of serious and irreverent, while both ensure that you get to the really fascinating sites.

Rating:
Summary: skip this book!
Review: If you are interested in finding out about where to stay or where to eat in the delightful area of Provence, skip this book. It is filled with cultural and historical information but contains absolutely nothing relevant to someone traveling in France. This book is better suited for someone who is interested in the history behind some of the regional sights. There are essentially no practical facts or travel tips included. After perusing it, I didn't even take it on my trip. In addition, the maps in this book are in no way a substitute for the maps published separately by Michelin, especially if you are planning to rent a car. I strongly recommend Frommer's Guide instead supplemented by Michelin maps. My Green Guide is on its way back to Amazon!