The introduction handles issues of culture which I had not previously been able to fully grasp. For example, the tipping system of Europe is well explained, use of guides at cities is better outlined, the issue of bed and breakfast as opposed to hotel, and finally how to use the certain shortcuts – hostels, necessary drivers’ id’s, necessary insurance on rental cars, car leasing, and more.

By the time I have reached page 30, I have some grasp of the culture. And, then off we go from port to town until he has told us “yep” or “nope” to the sights or sites which we have always heard about. Great clues and insight.

I enhanced my reading with two other staples: Michelin and Lonely Planet. Michelin provides greater historical perspective, Lonely Planet provides more cheap angles. If you merged the best of those two guides, you have Steves. And, in a nice size.

And, as he tells you – choose only a few guides. Read them all before departure, but lug only – at best – two. If that be the case, this is one I am taking for the road.

I recommend borrowing one of “Rick Steves’ Europe 2000-2007″ DVDs from your library to see if you like Rick’s style. (Don’t miss the “Travel Skills” DVD!) Rick’s books and DVDs are clearly aimed at Americans, so others will most likely prefer other guidebooks. Rick has clear preferences on where to go, so if you already know which cities and towns you will be visiting, be sure to use the “Search Inside” feature to look at the Table of Contents to be sure all your places are covered in this book.

When Amazon briefly offered the 2007 version for $4.99, I jumped on it. I cut that one into cities for carrying around while sightseeing, because the sightseeing details are so good, and the history shouldn’t change much!