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Title: The Rough Guide to Syria
ISBN: 1858287189
Author:
Andrew Beattie
Publicate Date: 2001-07-09
Publish: 2001-07-09
List Price: $18.95
Average Customer Rating: 4.0
Format: Paperback
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Amazon Lowest New Price: $11.44
Amazon Lowest Used Price: $6.89
Amazon Merchant Price: $12.89
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| Customer Review: |
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1: best book on Syria
This is the best book on Syria that I have (I've three others). It is so thorough that my tour guide wanted to purchase it from me at the end of our trip (a month long one). I'm sending him his own. There is "political" information in it that our guide was not aware of (e.g. the massacre at Hama). The writing style, often "tongue in cheek" made the text interesting to read. But, for me, its strength is its commentary on contemporary Syrian life, politics, culture. etc.
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2: good book, but
In this book you can find meny intresting information, but it's a little bit old... Stations changed it's place and prices too. So use it only for information. Don't trust is in all parts and all will be OK. Syria is a perfect country. :)
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3: Criticism of this Book as Culturally Insensitive is Off-Base
I feel compelled to correct the unsubstantiated & unreasonable claim in another review that the authors of this guide have in any way disparaged the Syrian people or their culture. This is a quite useful book in almost all respects (chock full of maps, even for many out-of-the-way destinations). Typical of this guide's attitude: "Remember that most Syrians are unfailingly honest and courteous, and you shouldn't let a cautious outlook spoil your trip, or be tempted to read anything sinister into the genuine offers of hospitality you receive." The Rough Guide to Syria has been put together with a lot of care, and while it may not be the ne plus ultra, it is reliable, informative, and particularly strong in giving significant coverage to places throughout Syria.
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4: Rough guide shows cultural insensitivity
I found the book very discouraging, and almost cancelled my trip altogether. The book does give useful information about archeological sights and how to get there. It is, however, full of misleading information about Syrian women, so-called cultural taboos, and why Syrians do certain things. The overall tone of the book is negative and condescending. I would certainly not recommend it if you are looking for positive cultural type information.
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5: Excellent book with lots of information
Excellent guide. It starts with a section about health, visa, currency, local transport, etc. The actual guide is a 'walkthrough', like: "When you exit the mosque, you will see on your left..." It contains maps of major cities, covering restaurants and hotels too (with price indication!) Detailled maps for places of interest. Background info on persons, political issues and history.
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