Provides basic tourist information (getting there, currency, getting around, etc) and detailed descriptions of regional areas with hotel, restaurant, shopping, and sightseeing specifics
I'm a Rough Guide fan for a number of reasons, most all of them having to do w organization. I like that the country is split up into regions, and the section for each region is clearly marked and begins with a good map and a list of highlights. The writing style is very clear and informal. The guides have some color, making them easier to read. Finally, each book contains short essays on the history, art, and politics of the country. Of course no guide book is comprehensive, but Rough Guides are very good cliff notes for your destination.
Pretty good guide -- especially in comparison to the more popular and over-marketed, Lonely Planet Guide. Excellent political and historical section. Also pretty comprehensive in terms of sites to see, places to stay , etc.