Which Lonely Planet guide to get?

I am looking for a guidebook about Costa Rica for my Travel there in December.
I found; Lonely Planet Costa Rica and Lonely Planet Discover Costa Rica
In the description I cannot really tell the difference and also the guy at the bookstore has no clue (books are not in store)
Can anyone advise me which one to get? or both? or is there a new edition due before December?

thanks for your advice.

Kind Regards Werner.

I haven't got either, but in general. ..the "Discover"guidebooks are shorter,with less practical information.

They have more pictures, more list of "must sees"...little or nothing off the beaten track.Designed for first-time travellers on short trips....

I prefer the MOON or Roughguide guidebooks....I think LP has ended up a tad pedestrian in their books, and don't offer much "Off the beaten path" ....

MOON is the bible here..my 2004 MOON has more info that the LP 2014.

Agree with the advice above regarding Moon or Rough.
I don't know if a Footprint is available but if it's the case, try to check it too.

Michel

I don't know if it's convenient for you, but I go to the nearest public library and compare the guide books available.

Good advice Misterbee...and while you are there, they should have a National Geographic Costa Rica, which covers a plethora of eco systems, bio diversity and natural wonders, as well as all the National Parks, 25% of the country is protected...

Hi there,

Definitely MOON for Costa Rica (Nicaragua & Panama)...I have used both books & as stated before, the format is not as it used to be....just some advice about the library (which I have used quite a bit before purchasing a guidebook)...don't forget to check the publish dates for library books...often they carry old editions...your library should have a network of other libraries they can 'borrow' a book for you to check out, you just return to the one you checked it out from...just don't keep it...buy the one you like! :)...the LP Discover Costa Rica seems less than actual guidebook...less info on transport, places to stay, etc. which is what I need a guidebook for...I have the one I checked out from my library now...(I wanted to show my friend the pictures)...hope this helps...safe travels.

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Good idea Mr. Bee or better yet go to a book store for the new editions. Spend a few hours reading. Travel is like everything else. An once of preparation is worth a pound of happy trails.

Yes, go to your local library and check out various travel books, see what you prefer. It's' not a big deal if there a few years old, not much changes in them parts.
I started with the Moon bock for my last trip in Guatemala, it was horrible, all mid to high lodging recommendations and few budget. Left out many towns and areas, had to pick up an older LP which was way more helpful.

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