It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of DK Publishing. They have a strong formula for balancing concise information, stunning photos, and smart layout to produce wonderful books. Their Eyewitness Guides are great basic travel books. Their cookbooks are some of my favorites.
So, when OFF THE TOURIST TRAIL: One Thousand Unexpected Travel Alternatives showed up in our store I drooled over it. But at $40.00, even with my employee discount, I didn’t buy. Now, it is 50% off during our after holiday sale. Until the 26th, that is. So, I snapped up a copy.

It’s a guide to the world’s unspoiled sights and experiences. It takes a hundred clichéd tourist destinations – everything from over-visited national parks to overrated museums – and reveal 1,000 fresh and fascinating alternative options.
The destinations are arranged by theme – Ancient and Historical Sights, Festivals and Parties, Great Journeys, Architectural Marvels, Natural Wonders, Beaches, Sports and Activities, Art and Culture, and Cities. There’s practical advice on getting there and around, where to stay, where to eat and when to go, as well as useful ‘Need to Know’ facts.
Less crowded, generally less expensive, and often more spectacular and rewarding, these lesser-known wonders of the world encourage readers to ditch the famous but well-worn choices, reminding them what real travel is all about – escaping the everyday and embracing the new.
I’m happy to have purchased the book. I’m depressed at the number of places I need to go and the limited time and money I possess. For now, I sip a cup of coffee and daydream as I flip through the pages.
The $20 price is for a limited time. But it’s the same in the store and at either B&N or Amazon.
So, you live near a Barnes & Noble, go get your copy while they are only $20.00. If not, go online and order it. You won’t be sorry.
It’s georgeous books like this, that prove the electronic readers will never completely supplant the printed page.