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I thought it was worth noting that the prolific Rick Steves, this generation's Arthur Frommer for Europe, is now writing Blog Gone Europe, a blog on his already extensive Web site.

Rick is just like many people; he backpacked around Europe when he was young, but instead of stopping there, he's made an entire multimedia industry of helping people learn how to travel "through the back door" by showing us how to find unique, local experiences.  Some would say that his rather Spartan approach to packing and getting around is too Lonely Planet-ish, but the rest of us on a budget really appreciate his willingness to show us how to pinch our pennies and still see a lot.

He's also very unpretentious when it comes to seeing the "great sights" of Paris, London, etc.; he can get you and your family through rather intimidating art museums without being preachy or dull or taking forever.  I read his Paris guidebook cover to cover but was particularly glad to have it when I took my kids through the Louvre.  Sometimes, just the highlights is about all we can handle, so Rick gives you the Big Picture and keeps you moving.

The only drawback is his popularity; there are many Americans clutching his guidebook and all checking into the same hotels and going to the same restaurants.  This tends to negate the whole idea of getting to know the locals and living like a local, not spending all your time with Marge from Sheboygan.  Rick doesn't cover Asia, but I had this same problem with popular guidebook recommendations in Tokyo -- when I checked into a ryokan in Asakusa, it was lovely but it was full of every nationality except Japanese.  I hear that travelers in Thailand have the same issues; everyone shows up at whatever place that Lonely Planet recommends.

Anyway, if you haven't already, pay Rick's Web site and blog a visit (they're simply jammed with good, practical information) then shell out for his latest guidebook to wherever you're going in Europe.  I've never been disappointed.

Technorati tags;  travel, family travel, Rick Steves