tour book?... maps??

[BARATIER]

Hi,
I am a first time backpacker going to Europe this december and I am wandering if I should buy a guide book or not? I would like for any of you oh mighty expereinced travelers to share your feelins on this. Also, which one would you recomend?
Also, How you feel about Maps? I though about getting one fro each place i am visiting, but then I think it would be extra bulk to carry maps around... but then again how would I foundmy way around?

Please help?


Thanx
Cheers
BARA

[Patrick]

A guidebook will help you out quite a bit. Usually decent maps, lots of information on the countries and helpful tips that save you money. A guidebook will pay for itself in savings on your trip. Most will have advice on planning / packing etc. as well.

I have two from lonely planet (western europe, scandinavia) and I think they're excellent.

[BARATIER]

thanx a lot guys. I'm gonna go an check out the selection at my bookstore.

Bara

[EricaT]

I found www.amazon.com has a cheaper selection on guide books and maps than bookstores. I looked at the local bookstore, picked out the books I wanted, and bought them online. Only thing is shipping is a pain.

[snorkelman]

Although the maps included in most guidebooks are basic and not as detailed as a city map, it is sufficient to just use the one provided in the guidebook.

If you have problems navigating (some people suggested using a compass) then when you arrive in a city, grab a free map at the hostel or at the info booth at the train station and then give/throw the map away when you leave because it is a waste of space/weight to carry afte ryou have left the city.

Trust me, no matter how detailed your map of Venice is, you WILL get lost. Besides, thatis half the fun.