Many backpackers refer to the various Lonely Planet guides as South East Asia bibles, and indeed treat them as such. Taking just a glimpse at Lonely Planet: Thailand, it's not difficult to understand why. Crammed into over 1000 pages is everything you could want to know about pretty much every region of Thailand. From the southern provinces bordering on Malaysia, to the main coastal destinations such as Phuket and Koh Samui, from the intense heat of Bangkok to the amazing architecture around Ayutthaya and the contrasting tranquillity of the north, the people at Lonely Planet give you as much practical information on places to stay, eat and visit as possible. Updated regularly, the guides try to keep abreast of the rapid development in Thailand and give you the latest, vital information on how much you can expect to pay--particularly useful for that first trip in a Songthaew or Tuk-tuk.

As always there is detailed information about the culture and history of Thailand. However, for many the focus is on the practicalities of finding accommodation and getting where you're going (once you have used the handy maps to figure out where you are). Particularly useful are the suggested itineraries which give an idea of what you can fit in whether you are staying for a couple of weeks or several months. For those wanting to concentrate their stay on the main attractions of Bangkok and Thailand's coastal regions, Lonely Planet: Thailand's Islands and Beaches is perhaps a better bet. However, if you fancy being a little more adventurous and seeing more of Thailand, Lonely Planet: Thailand is certainly a good place to start. --Caroline Butler

2007-05-08 The Safe Option

I found the 'Let's Go' guides to SE Asia way superior to the 'Lonely Planet'. The trouble with the 'LP' is that it tends to keep you on the well trodden trail and advises you to be cautious at every step.

The whole idea of travelling or backpacking is, I feel, to experience something new. You need to throw caution to the wind and just go for it. I think the opinions and tips in the 'LP' advise too much on what not to do and what nasties may happen if you do.

If you like to stay with the herd following the beaten track then this is the book for you. However, if it's a bit of adventure you're after then I'd look elsewhere.