Most colleges have their Spring Break coming up (!!) and if you’re like me, buried in car payments and online shopping bills, then you also had to pass on a tropical beach vacation. While my friends are off sunning themselves silly, I’m working at my school, touring prospective students. I’m not complaining, but I have spent a good amount of time daydreaming and planning my next wonderful trip. So, of course, I need a travel guide to assist me!

Since I have been thinking about a Greek Island vacation, “500 Extraordinary Islands” seemed like a great option. This book gives “beach read” a whole new meaning. It’s a unique travel book; instead of simply touring you around a country, this one gives you the opportunity to check out wonderful places all over the planet! That versatility immediately appealed to me. The book is also organized in a really neat way. Frommers has very much avoided a geographical system, that is, they haven’t separated the islands by continent. Instead, they are classified by your interests! With chapters like “Beachcomber,” “Garden” and “Wildlife” islands, you’re given about seven options in each one, so you’re bound to find an island whose atmosphere appeals to you in a location you want to visit (and, more importantly for students, can afford!). Read More »

I’ve officially been re-bitten by the travel bug. During the school year my traveling urges go into a slight hibernation as I am far too busy getting my study on to dream of far off places and the trips I’d like to take. There are times, though, when my studies get too boring and I find myself planning imaginary trips to London, England or Walt Disney World (yes, this is fact. Unfortunately).

Since I don’t have the money to jet-set around the world, I’ve found books set in exotic and foreign destinations are the best way to whet my traveling appetite. They allow me to leave my home without getting out of bed, and cost a fraction of the price of a ticket to Italy. And “Left Bank” by Kate Muir allows me to do all of that while also enjoying a little steamy romance.

The book is set in Paris, France, one of the most desired travel spots on the planet and also one of my top 5 cities. Ever.

Paris is famous for having the River Seine run right through, separating the city into the Right Bank and, you guessed it, the Left Bank. The Left Bank is notorious for playing host to the rich, powerful, snobby and of course, as most Europeans, extremely well-dressed. Read More »