In most
instances, I think I would still prefer the paperback versions of the guides.
There is more information (including the Staten Island Ferry tidbit in
the paper new York Guide, a comprehensive list of theaters in the Chicago
guide, etc.), a slew of full color maps, and you have the ability to thumb
through each guide easily. And, of course, paperbacks are only about
15 bucks a pop. However, the trend in recent guidebooks is to give a history
lesson. In that sense, the electronic guides are less verbose, thankfully,
and electronic searching and organizing is a big plus. Did I mention the
bookmark feature? Or the ability to take notes on the handheld? Those
are both very nice.
Conclusion
All, in all though, the guides are quite wonderful – presenting me with
really useful information. Clear, concise and well organized. Supplementing
them with a real map may be all you need.
Note: Springboard module with cities coming
in August. But why you’d need it, I have no idea. The CD ROM (or downloading)
seems just dandy. Maybe it’s the approx. 2MB the 4 cities take up. But I got 8, count em, 8 whole MEGABYTES and I’m not out yet!
|
|
| Pros |
- Extensive
- Easy to navigate
- Fun to read
- Demo version available
|
|
| Cons |
- Maps are hard to read
- A bit pricey at $49.95 for 5 cities ($19.95 for one)
- Some surprising omissions
- Searching is sometimes a bit slow |
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