Dk Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guides Barcelona by Inc Dorling Kindersley, Ryan Chandler (2008, Package)

PROS: Compact, with fold-out maps at the front and back covers that have the Top 10 indicated! The guide itself goes beyond their Top 10 of Barcelona and includes information about the various 'quarters' of the city as well as a 'Street Smarts' guide. That last part is SOOO valuable. Also, there is a pull out map independent of the book (it is 'sleeved' at the back and you take it out) that has maps of the metro and rail as well as 6 Top 10 Lists right on the map (10 Free Activities, 10 Outside Eateries, 10 Quiet Corners, etc.)

MEDIUM CON (Kind of - Still Far from a Deal Breaker): The book is compact, but not pocket-sized if that matters to you. From my research there are pickpockets apparently everywhere and while the book may not be something they are after, if it is in a pocket it could easily be pulled out and pull out other loose items that may be in there also (cash). However, if you read the book first you can use the pull out map that is QUITE lightweight, practically wallet-sized, and easily transportable.

BIG CON: Literally! If you need this in anywhere near a timely fashion, do not trust the listings from sellers who indicate they ship in 2 days. The large seller I bought from indicated the 2 day ship plus I paid for expedited shipping (knowing otherwise it would likely be media mail - I don't expect sellers to make up time lost by the post office). When I got notice 5 days later that they shipped, I was floored, but not as much as I was by the exceptionally rude response I received when I pointed out their listing and the fact I paid a premium just to make sure I got it on time. I would recommend you contact the seller first if time is an issue. If they don't answer quickly, go to the next seller. Beware the big, gray, trunked mass seller!!