Frommer's(r) New York City 2003

Rating:
Summary: Very good - has embraced the Internet too!
Review: Frommers still tends to somewhat gloss over things, but they've definitely gotten much more detailed since the old days. One of the best features is that they've completely embraced the Internet, providing web site and e-mail addresses for most things.

There's always been a rivalry between Fodors and Frommers. In this case, Frommers is pulling ahead.

Rating:
Summary: Take it with a grain of salt...
Review: We used this book as our main guide for planning our first trip to NYC. We were REALLY disappointed with most of the shops that were recommended, and almost equally disappointed with the restaurants. In addition, some of the attractions rated "Not Worth It" were actually pretty cool -- specifically Mme. Tussaud's Wax Museum! I guess this book is pretty good for helping one get oriented and to figure out "what's out there", but I'd definitely take its recommendations with a big grain of salt, and leave myself open to trying things that appeal to me, even if this book recommends against them. (I must add that this was all very disappointing, given the good reputation that Frommer's enjoys as a reputable travel guide...)