Avalon Travel Publishing.

Avalon Travel Publishing

1400--65th Street, Emeryville CA 94608

www.travelmatters.com

Avalon Travel's diverse line is largely directed to independent travelers who would forego the package tour in favor of discovering byways--or, would even think of moving to a foreign country. Such is the case with Erin Van Rheenen's Living Abroad In Costa Rica (1566916526, $17.95), an important guide for any contemplating retiring in the country. And, who better to write this than an author who left her own life in San Francisco to make a home in Costa Rica? You get all the details on everything from visas and jobs to health, housing and more. You may not wish to move to your destination: you may just want to visit: if so, take long Moon Handbooks' guides: designed for pocket tote and advanced research alike, each offers independent travelers keys to forming superior trips. Take along Moon Metro San Francisco (1566914736, $14.95) when you go: its compact size fits right into a purse or coat pocket, yet its pages all unfold to reveal maps which are nearly full-size in scale, and easy to consult without the folding challenges of larger car maps. It's easy to pinpoint the sights and how to find them, with the compact Metro San Francisco in hand. Andrew Hempstead's Vancouver & Victoria Including Whistler And Vancouver Island (1566918952, $16.95), Kim Weir's Monterey & Carmel Including Santa Cruz And Big Sur (1566919037, $15.95) and Bill Weir's Arizona (1566916895, $21.95) each pack in destination-oriented tips. Small print allows for a greater depth of detail--and the young folk using these independent-minded guides won't strain eyes, but will appreciate the fact the guides come packed with small maps, tips on eating and budget to luxury accommodations, byways and off the beaten path choices--everything covered in depth with pros and cons included where applicable. Add regular updating to keep these handbooks current and you have take-alongs which are invaluable references. Speaking of take-alongs, maybe it's the dog you wish to have join your trip. If you're California-bound, don't miss packing Maria Goodavage's The Dog Lover's Companion To California: The Inside Scoop On Where To Take Your Dog (1566914035, $21.95) and her shorter Dog Lover's Companiopn To The Bay Area: The Inside Scoop On Where To Take Your Dog (1566916941, $17.95): each packs in hundreds of off-leash areas, parks, trails, and campsites--all rated from a dog's perspective on a one- to four-paw scale. Coverage doesn't stop with the great outdoors, however: hotels, restaurants--even dog-friendly shops and wineries are revealed, along with human attractions. Highly recommended picks, all.