Books by Phil Lee

The Rough Guide to Norway 3 (Rough Guide Travel Guides)

by Phil Lee

INTRODUCTION
In a tamed and heavily populated continent, Norway remains a wilderness outpost. Everything here is on a grand scale, with some of Europe’s finest and wildest land- and seascapes. From the Skagerrak – the choppy channel that separates the country from Denmark – Norway stretches north in a long, slender band along the Atlantic seaboard, up across the Arctic Circle to the Barents Sea and the Russian border. Behind this rough and rocky coast are great mountain ranges, harsh upland plateaux, plunging river valleys, rippling glaciers, deep forests and, most famously, the mighty fjords which gash deep inland.
The fjords are the apple of the tourist industry’s eye, and they are indeed magnificent, but except for the lively capital, Oslo, and perhaps historic Bergen, the rest of the country might as well be blank for all that many visitors know. Few seem aware of the sheer variety of the landscape or the lovely little towns that are sprinkled over it. Neither are the Norwegians given nearly enough credit for their careful construction of one of the most civilized, educated and tolerant societies in the world – one whose even-handed internationalism has set standards that few other European nations can approach. With every justification, the bulk of the population have a deep loyalty for – and pride in – their country, partly at least because independence was so long in coming: after the heady days of the Vikings, Norway was governed by the Danes for four centuries and was then passed to the Swedes, who only left in 1905.
It is the Vikings who continue to grab the historical headlines, prompting book after book and film upon (foreign) film. These formidable warriors burst upon an unsuspecting Europe from the remoteness of Scandinavia in the ninth century. The Norwegian Vikings sailed west, raiding every seaboard from the Shetlands to Sicily, even venturing as far as Greenland and Newfoundland. Wherever they settled, the speed of their assimilation into the indigenous population was extraordinary – William the Conqueror, the archetypal Norman baron, was only a few generations removed from his Viking ancestors – and in the unpopulated Faroes and Iceland, the settlers could begin from scratch, creating societies which then developed in a similar fashion to that of their original homeland.
Norway’s so-called "period of greatness" came to an abrupt end: in 1349, an English ship unwittingly brought the Black Death to the country, and in the next two years somewhere between half and two-thirds of the population was wiped out. The enfeebled country was easy meat for the Danes, who took control at the end of the fourteenth century and remained in command until 1814. As colonial powers go, the Danes were comparatively benign, but everything specifically "Norwegian" – from language to dress – became associated with the primitive and uncouth. To redress this state of affairs, Norway’s bourgeois nationalists of the mid- to late nineteenth century sought to rediscover – and sometimes to reinvent – a national identity. This ambitious enterprise, enthusiastically undertaken, fuelled a cultural renaissance which formed the backdrop to the work of acclaimed painters, writers and musicians, most notably Munch, Ibsen and Grieg, and the endeavours of explorers like Amundsen and Nansen. Its reverberations can be felt to this day, for example in Norway’s "No" vote on EU membership.

Pocket Rough Guide Bruges and Ghent (Travel Guide) (Pocket Rough guides)

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

Pocket Rough Guide to Bruges & Ghent is your essential guide to these exciting cities, with information on all the key sights in an easy-to-use, pocket-size format and a full-color, pull-out map.

This guide is an up-to-date, authoritative, and user-friendly companion to two of Belgium's most popular cities. Full-color and richly illustrated throughout, the guide highlights the best these cities have to offer, from top museums to handsome art nouveau buildings--giving you inspiration for things to do 24 hours a day. You'll find accurate information on the cities' top attractions, from the incredible Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in Ghent to first-class Flemish painting at the Groeninge Museum in Bruges, as well as the region's best child-friendly attractions. The guide features up-to-date listings of all the hottest new places to stay, eat, drink, club, and shop to fit all budgets, and comes complete with comprehensive maps to help you find your way around.

Whether you have an afternoon, a few days, or more at your disposal, Rough Guides' carefully curated itineraries help you plan your trip, and the "Best of" Bruges and Ghent sections pick out the highlights you won't want to miss.

Divided by area for easy navigation, the "Places" section is written in Rough Guides' trademark honest and informative style, with listings of the must-see sights and our pick of the best places to eat, drink, and more.

Make the most of your time with Pocket Rough Guide to Bruges & Ghent.

The Rough Guide to Norway

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

The Rough Guide to Norway is the ultimate travel guide to Scandinavia's most inspiring country. There's stunning photography to inspire you, crystal clear maps to guide you and in-depth coverage on everything from Norway's charmingly laidback cities to the mighty ice-plateaus of Svalbard's artic wilderness. The Rough Guide to Norway will ensure you make the most of your time in Norway, whether you are planning a city-break in style-conscious Oslo, a retreat in a stunningly sited, fjordside hamlet, or an adventurous trip hiking past mountain waterfalls, cross-country skiing or chasing the elusive northern lights. Insider reviews reveal the best places to eat, drink and sleep with something for every budget, whether you want to stay in a remote lighthouse or fisherman's hut, enjoy Bergen's top-notch culinary scene, or have a night out bar-hopping in Norway's buzzing capital city. Make the most of your trip with The Rough Guide to Norway.

The Rough Guide to Norway

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

Practical travel guide to Norway with a free eBook featuring points-of-interest structured lists of all sights and off-the-beaten-track treasures, with detailed colour-coded maps, practical details about what to see and to do in Norway, how to get there and around, pre-departure information, as well as top time-saving tips, like a visual list of things not to miss in Norway, expert author picks and itineraries to help you plan your trip. This guide book has been fully updated post-COVID-19.

The Rough Guide to Norway covers: Oslo, Oslofjord, Geirangerfjord, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Tromsø, Balestrand, Lofthus, Loen, Fla°m, Ulvik, Mundal, A°lesund, Arendal, Mandal, Fla°m.

Inside this travel guide you'll find:

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER
Experiences selected for every kind of trip to Norway, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Svalbard or the Lofoten islands to family activities in child-friendly places, like Stavanger or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Oslo and Bergen.

PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS
Essential pre-departure information including Norway entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more.

TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES
Carefully planned routes covering the best of Norway give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip.

DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE
Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options.

INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL
Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for whitewater rafting, sea- kayaking, skiing and glacier walks.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS
Rough Guides' rundown of Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and Tromsø's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Norway, even in a short time.

HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS
Written by Rough Guides' expert authors with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, to help to find the best places in Norway, matching different needs.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Comprehensive 'Contexts' chapter features fascinating insights into Norway, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary.

FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY
Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Jotunheimen National Park and the spectacular Lofoten islands.

COLOUR-CODED MAPPING
Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Oslo, Bergen and many more locations in Norway, reduce the need to go online.

USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT
With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time.

FREE EBOOK
Free eBook download with every purchase of a printed book allows you to access all of the content from your phone or tablet, for on-the-road exploration.

Insight Guides Iceland: Travel Guide with EBook

by Insight Guides, Phil Lee

This Iceland guidebook, perfect for travellers planning longer trips, is written by Insight Guides' destination experts. It blends detailed coverage of local history, culture and places to visit with the visual appeal of an illustrated magazine, packed with enticing photos that will inspire excitement for your travels. Printed on eco-friendly paper for sustainability.

In this Iceland travel guidebook, you will find:

• Top Attractions and Editors' Choice - must-visit highlights including Northern Lights, Blue Lagoon, Reykjavík, Whale-watching, Heimaey, Geysir and Gullfoss, showcasing the best of what Iceland has to offer


• In-depth coverage of attractions - detailed narrative descriptions of sites and hidden gem destinations, all organised by geographical location


• When to go to Iceland - guidance on the perfect times to visit, with details on the high and low seasons, climate and festivals


• Practical travel information - essential advice on logistics, including getting there, moving around, budgeting tips, dining and shopping


• Insider recommendation - top tips on beating the crowds, saving money and finding the best local spots


• Engaging essays thoughtful features on the country's history, culture, contemporary life and politics give a deeper understanding


• High-quality maps - detailed maps, featuring must-see places organised by number and corresponding to text


• Striking pictures - inspirational photography on every page


• Colour-coded chapters - each chapter is assigned a unique colour, aiding in easy navigation


• Free download of eBook - after purchasing the printed guidebook, you'll also have access to a free download of the eBook


• Coverage includes: Reykjavík, The Reykjanes Peninsula, Vestmannaeyjar (The Westman Islands), Snæfellsnes and the West, The West Fjords, Húnaflói and Skagafjördur, Akureyri, Grímsey, Lake Myvatn, The East Fjords

The Mini Rough Guide to Bruges and Ghent: Travel Guide with EBook

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

This mini pocket Bruges and Ghent travel guidebook is perfect for travellers looking for essential information about Bruges and Ghent. It provides details on key places and main attractions, along with a selection of itineraries, recommendations for restaurants and top tips on how to make the most of your trip. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

In this Bruges and Ghent guidebook, you will find:

• Curated recommendations of places - expert picks of main attractions, child-friendly activities and relaxing spots, plus where to take the best photos


• What's new, when to go and sustainable travel - all-new features direct you to what you need to know


• Things not to miss in Bruges and Ghent - the Begijnhof, Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, canals, Bell Tower, Groeningemuseum, Het Gravensteen, Huis Ter Beurze, Stadhuis, Sint-Janshospitaalmuseum, Basilica of the Holy Blood


• Three unique trip plans - itinerary suggestions for those on a short break, including one for a Perfect day


• Food and drink - recommendations for local specialities and the best dining experiences


• What to do in Bruges and Ghent - recommendations for entertainment, shopping, sports, children's activities, events and nightlife


• Practical information - how to get there and around, money, health and medical care, and tourist information


• Overview maps - handy maps on the inside cover flaps show Bruges and Ghent and around


• section - basic vocabulary and phrases from the local language


• Striking pictures - inspirational colour photography throughout


• Free download of the eBook - available after purchase of the printed guidebook


• Coverage includes: the Burg, Vismarkt, Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, Mariastraat, the Begijnhof, Minnewater, Katelijnestraat, Jan van Eyckplein, Sint-Baafskathedraal, the Belfort and Lakenhalle, Botermarkt and Hoogpoort, Korenlei and Graslei, Gravensteen

The Rough Guide to Amsterdam: Travel Guide with EBook

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Amsterdam, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

Inside this Amsterdam travel book, you'll find:

• Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one


• Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests


• Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more


• Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities


• Seasonal tips - when to go to Amsterdam, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip


• Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - Konin Kluk Paleis, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank Huis, the Vondelpark, brown cafés, the Begunhof, the eye, Brouwersgracht, Oude Kerk, King's Day, Rijksmuseum, Muziekgebouw


• Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment


• Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Amsterdam


• Language essentials - a handy Dutch dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals


• Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Amsterdam, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust


• Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide


• Coverage includes: the Old Centre, the Grachtengordel, the Jordaan and western docklands, the old Jewish quarter and Plantage, the eastern docklands and Amsterdam Noord, the Museum Quarter, the outer districts

The Rough Guide to Belgium and Luxembourg: Travel Guide with EBook

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Belgium and Luxembourg, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

Inside this Belgium and Luxembourg travel book, you'll find:

• Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one


• Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests


• Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more


• Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities


• Seasonal tips - when to go to Belgium and Luxembourg, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip


• Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - Grand Place Brussels, Moselle Valley Luxembourg, Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, Ghent, the hautes Fagnes, Ardennes, the Burg Bruges, Dinant cable car, Brussels art nouveau scene, Menin Gate, Ieper, Vianden castle Luxembourg, kayaking Ardennes, Mas Museum Antwerp


• Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment


• Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Belgium and Luxembourg


• Language essentials - a handy English dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals


• Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Belgium and Luxembourg, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust


• Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide


• Coverage includes: Brussels, Flanders, Antwerp and the northeast of Belgium, Hainaut and Brabant Wallon, the Ardennes, Luxembourg

Rough Guides Walks and Tours Mallorca: Travel Guide with EBook

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

This compact, pocket-sized Mallorca travel guidebook is ideal for travellers on shorter trips, who want to make sure they experience the destination's highlights and really get a flavour of the place. It includes ready-made walking and driving itineraries, with detailed directions, that allow you to organise your visit to Mallorca without losing time planning. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

In this Mallorca travel book, you will find:

• 14 ready-made walks and tours - easy-to-follow walking and driving trip plans featuring the best places to visit, as well as what to do and where to eat along the way


• Itinerary details - each walk or tour starts with pointers on the time taken, distance covered and how to connect it with other itineraries in the book


• Best walks and tours in Mallorca for surf, sand and sun, art collections, family adventures, foodie paradise, the great outdoors, historical legacy, literary genius, Mallorcan architecture


• Curated recommendations of places - the walks and tours feature all the main attractions and off-the-beaten-track adventures, as well as child-friendly family activities and chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas


• Insider recommendations - tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money, and find the best local spots


• Historical and cultural insights - thematic features highlight Mallorca's unique life and culture


• Unique hotel, restaurant and nightlife listings - curated details of where to stay, eat and go out, whatever your interest, for a range of budgets


• Practical information - how to get there, how to get around and an A-Z of essential details


• Handy mapping - practical maps for each walk and tour, with clearly numbered sights


• Free download of the eBook - available after the purchase of the printed guidebook


• Coverage includes: Palma, Andratx, Banyalbufar, The Tramuntana, Valldemossa, Lluc, Sóller, Pollença, Formentor, Bay of Alcúdia, Artà, Cala Torta, Es Trenc, Felanitx, Petra

The Rough Guide to Mallorca and Menorca: Travel Guide with EBook

by Rough Guides, Phil Lee

Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Mallorca and Menorca, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.

Inside this Mallorca and Menorca travel book, you'll find:

• Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one


• Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests


• Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more


• Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities


• Seasonal tips - when to go to Mallorca and Menorca, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip


• Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - Valldemossa, Monestir de Lluc, Talatí de Dalt, eating in Palma, Cabrera National Park, Palma-Sóller vintage train, Jardins d'Alfàbia, hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana, Peninsula de Formentor, Santuari de Sant Salvador in Artà, Palma Cathedral, Ciutadella


• Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment


• Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Mallorca and Menorca


• Language essentials - a handy Spanish dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals


• Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Mallorca and Menorca, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust


• Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide


• Coverage includes: Palma, Sóller, Valldemossa, Deià, Magaluf, Port de Pollença, Maó, Ciutadella, Cala Galdana, Monte Toro, Fornells, Cala Pregonda