Rating:  Summary: Still Very Outdated Review: Perhaps it is because Mongolia is changing so fast (individual visas were only issued from 1 June 1997) but this book is one of Lonely Planet's worst - and that's sad because Mongolia is a fantastic country. For example, almost all the backbacker accommodations mentioned in the UB section have closed down, and it doesn't mention Gana's Guest House which is the only place to stay if you're on a budget. Also, it underestimates the travel times between different towns, and makes some of them sound quite big when in fact they are tiny. But don't wait for a new edition - go to Mongolia before it changes!
Rating:  Summary: Could be better Review: There are some major problems with this book. It takes a condescending tone towards Mongolian culture/food/attractions from the average expectations for such things if you weren't in Mongolia. Lonely Planet compares Mongolia to the, say, average European country. The average traveler to Mongolia is not looking for an average European country. Taking this mode to guiding you through the country, cheapens the experience with unecessary and biased opinions. I found the maps to be pretty useful, and a good base for finding your way around the country. In the absence of other guide books to Mongolia, Lonely Planet is not a bad choice, if read with a grain of salt.
Rating:  Summary: Could be better Review: There are some major problems with this book. It takes a condescending tone towards Mongolian culture/food/attractions from the average expectations for such things if you weren't in Mongolia. Lonely Planet compares Mongolia to the, say, average European country. The average traveler to Mongolia is not looking for an average European country. Taking this mode to guiding you through the country, cheapens the experience with unecessary and biased opinions. I found the maps to be pretty useful, and a good base for finding your way around the country. In the absence of other guide books to Mongolia, Lonely Planet is not a bad choice, if read with a grain of salt.
Rating:  Summary: The very worst Lonely Planet book I've ever used Review: Very old information, not well researched, and crudely written. New researchers were in Mongolia working on a new edition this summer, but from what I heard from those that met them, it won't be much better. Two males again, short amount of time in the country, and not very comprehensive visits.
Rating:  Summary: There is no better Guide to Mongolia (2nd Edition) Review: When you are the only game in town you don't have to be good to be noticed; however, this guide to Mongolia - is not only good, it is very good.Mongolia is one of the most remote and fastest changing destinations on earth and this guide highlights its unique characteristics. This updated edition contains the standard transportation and accommodations details, as well as, background information on the history, culture and 46 impressive maps. The practical information sections: books, films, newspapers, visas, customs, insurance etc. are very impressive. For those that are going to Mongolia there is no better guide.
|