1: Invaluable Tool for my Research Trip
Thank you, Paul Bahn, for making this book! I am planning a trip to Europe exclusively to visit cave art sites. I have been trying to find information about caves that are still open to the public, but was having a really hard time on my own finding anything helpful. My search has come to an end! This book has a wealth of information which will undoubtedly be invaluable for planning and during my trip. It covers more than 50 caves and relevant museums/centers throughout England, France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy that are open to the public.
Each cave is arranged by country. It has a description of the site and what there is to see as well as the histories and interesting facts about them. Coupled with the description is a list of practical information about the site which includes:
- The site's address, telephone, fax, website, and e-mail address
- Nearest city/town
- Nearest airport
- Nearest car rental
- Nearest train station
- Nearest bus route
- Nearest taxi or private car hire
- Restaurants in the vicinity
- Hotels in the vicinity
Then it has a list of questions which are each answered with as much detail as possible for each site. The questions are:
- When is the cave open?
- Admission prices?
- Storage facilities?
- Do you have to make a group?
- Can you reserve a place in a group?
- Languages of the guides?
- Length of tour?
- Is the cave privately owned?
- Is there a gift shop?
- Are there WC facilities?
- Handicapped access?
- Is there any climbing necessary?
- Distance to walk?
- Level of fitness required?
- Equipment required?
- What are the conditions inside the cave?
- Is it lit?
- Is it slippery?
- Is photography allowed?
There are maps and an informative introduction to the book that explains a lot about what to expect when you visit these sites. There is also some interesting information about cave art itself. There are many full color photos of the art you can expect to see. It is apparent that great care went into creating this guide. It far surpassed my expectations. It is clear, easy to read, and up to date. I can't wait to use it to help me plan my trip to Europe!
|
