Despite all the information available on the internet, I still like guidebooks. I like holding a book in my hands, studying up on a place before I go. I like having a book with me on the trip, ideally one I can carry my purse or backpack. And I do like having guidebooks on the bookshelf... another memory of a trip long after its over.

I've already got my guidebooks for Savannah. I already had a couple of Savannah area books-- from trips a couple of years ago-- but I wanted new editions to be sure I had the latest information. Here's the run-down on what's available:

Focus on the Savannah area

Frommer's Portable Savannah, 2nd edition Definitely the guidebook to bring with you if you're going to pack light!

Insider's Guide to Savannah and Hilton Head, 6th edition I think this is a great resource. Applicable to travelers and potential residents, it's written by two locals and filled with all sorts of useful information and trivia about Savannah.

Romantic Days and Nights in Savannah I don't have this one, but it sounds intriguing. The book includes suggested itineraries, maybe not all romantic. It's available used from Amazon sellers.

How about a freebee?? You can request a free travel planner from the Savannah Convention and Visitors Bureau. It's a useful little book (112 pages), including directories for restaurants, shopping and activities.

Savannah and Beyond

Many travelers to Savannah also visit Charleston and the coastal islands, definitely worth considering if you're making a longer trip. These books cover a broader area:

Fodor's The Carolinas & Georgia, 17th Edition

Frommer's The Carolinas & Georgia, 8th edition

Charleston, Savannah & Coastal Islands Book: A Complete Guide, 5th edition (A Great Destinations Guide)

Maps

It's very easy to get free maps in Savannah-- they're available at hotels and B&Bs and from the Tourist Office. Some of the best maps are put out by the trolley tour companies. But if you want a really nice map (which includes maps of the surrounding area), consider this one, which has really positive reviews on Amazon. Amazon also sells it in combination with the Frommers portable guide.

The Best Litle Map of Savannah

Please post if you have comments or suggestions about Savannah area guidebooks!

Join us for The Great Slow Travel Gathering - Savannah, Georgia - April 4 to 6, 2008.

Kathy

Kathy,

You are so good!

jan

I've just seen a reference to "The National Trust Guide to Savannah." Is anyone familiar with it? I'm thinking of getting it, although I already have Frommer's and could get the AAA book. It appears to be more comprehensive and detailed than others. Online it is about the same price as several of the other books, though it is slightly over $20. on Amazon and qualifies for free shipping there.

Ann