From Antarctica to Zimbabwe, if you're going there, chances are Lonely Planet has been there first. With a pithy and matter-of-fact writing style, these guides are guaranteed to calm the nerves of first-time world travelers, while still listing off-the-beaten-path finds sure to thrill even the most jaded globetrotters. Lonely Planet has been perfecting its guidebooks for nearly 30 years and as a result, has the experience and know-how similar to an older sibling's "been there" advice. The original backpacker's bible, the LP series has recently widened its reach. While still giving insights for the low-budget traveler, the books now list a wide range of accommodations and itineraries for those with less time than money. This useful guide will help you navigate post-Soviet bureaucracy as you explore the wide-ranging opportunities of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Inside you'll find what to eat and where to get it; up-to-date maps featuring place names and map keys in Roman and Cyrillic script; well-researched background on Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusan language, history, arts, and culture; plus a practical section for riding the rails of the Trans-Siberian Railway. --Kathryn True
