From one that has travelled throughout the Kingdom over the past decade; this new kid on the block handbook is the most deeply researched and detailed look at the magic kingdom of several other guides previously used. The historical background, and articulate area descriptions are unrivaled. The Thailand Handbook is the essential travel document for the moderate income traveller who actually enjoys getting out among the people of Thailand, and off dreadful Khao San Rd. I strongly recommend this book to anyone on a budget of over 40 dollars a day in Thailand. If not, one should really go with one of the other "backpack" guides. The LP guide usually has a more extensive selection of low cost accomodations and cheap food in the high concentration seedier tourist areas. Above all, just get out there and enjoy the real Thailand as it's described in Parkes book.