When in the Middle East, do as the Arabs do. That's the advice of author Gordon Robinson, whose suggestions include: "Upon entering a room shake hands with everyone, touching your heart with the palm of the right hand after each handshake." When you've done that, these will help you to find your way around the Middle East without getting into trouble. Middle East is in its third edition, the others are new.
After 75 annual editions, this veteran travel guide publisher should just about have it right. The first South American handbook, written by W. Koebel and published in 1924, was intended for businessmen wanting to export to South America. Now the export, or import, is in leisure travellers and this volume offers lots of useful information.
All you need to know about the sub-continent in several new editions (the eighth for India) and two new guides (Kerala and Mumbai). Read and digest or you'll need a bigger suitcase.
A budget guide that the backpacking set may find handy. Not a word on expensive things to do or buy but heaps on public transport and B&Bs. Read your mate's and make notes.
