SOMBRERO BOOKS
Western Mexico - A Traveller's Treasury
Book Description - Editorial Reviews - Reader Reviews
By Tony Burton
(3rd edition, Perception Press, 2001) ISBN: 1893518019
Softcover: 201 pages, 8 maps, 35 line illustrations by Mark
Eager, cover painting by Georg Rauch.
Price: $15.95
Book Description
In western Mexico, far from the biggest resorts, Tony Burton has discovered a region that has retained the ancient culture and traditions, the Mexico behind the mask. This guide to the magic of western Mexico includes suggestions for day trips and longer overnight routes, all within three hours driving time of Guadalajara, Chapala or Ajijic, as well as three- and four-day trips.
Included are historical places such as Lagos de Moreno and San Blas, artistic colonies such as Ajijic, lakeside communities like Chapala, ecological wonders including Manantlán, Paricutin volcano and the monarch butterflies, coastal regions such as Barra de Navidad, Indian villages like Angahuan, and a host of others.
The author provides all the details needed to find and enjoy the art, architecture and archeology of the region, fiestas and folklore, and unusual sights and natural wonders.
Editorial , Reviews
"A sensitive, amusing, clearly written book, filled with interesting facts about history, geography and folklore, good clear maps, and a few very personal hotel and restaurant recommendations." TravelMexico
"An outstanding read whether you have visited any of the destinations or just dreamed of going; a book which has long been needed, and will no doubt find its way into the libraries of all who travel lesser-known parts of Mexico. Burton takes the reader on a historical, geographical and cultural journey through towns and villages that, in the minds of most foreign visitors, are simply hard-to-pronounce names on a map of Mexico... Burton's authoritative writing comes to life in its description of the natural wonders of the region and the unusual, less visited nooks and crannies..." Guadalajara Colony Reporter
"There is nothing that pleases a Mexican more than a foreigner that lives in Mexico, speaks the language, is not judgmental and studies the country with sensitivity and in depth. That is exactly what Tony Burton has done - and it shows in Western Mexico - A Traveller's Treasury... A treasure for Mexicans and foreigners alike... Tony's style is fluid, clear and entertaining... The book's magic is enhanced by the wonderful illustrations by Mark Eager. A must in the library of every Mexican or foreigner with intellectual curiosity about Mexico." El Ojo Del Lago
"Unlike comprehensive guidebooks... Western Mexico provides the level of detail necessary for one to get a real sense of a place. There are both humorous and poignant touches..." Mexican Meanderings.
Back to Bookshop - Click here to order.
Reader Reviews
Alan Cogan's Book Reviews - March 2002
"The area of Mexico covered by Mr. Burton's book is filled with historical, cultural and geographical/geological riches. The problem for me as a resident of this area has been where to find them, and where to learn about them, once you have heard about them. This book has been a god-send as it has allowed us to learn and explore our "neighbourhood" with confidence and always rewarding experiences. If you are interested in more than beach, babes, and beer, then this is a wonderful book to use, or just to read, learn and dream. It is truly a "Mexico" book. David McLaughlin, Jalisco, Mexico.
British born Tony Burton is a long time resident of Mexico and an award winning travel writer and naturalist. He has collected and updated the best of his writings over the years into what is a unique guidebook to western Mexico. Based on his frequent travels and intimate knowledge of the region, Tony offers his special insights into this scenic and culturally rich area of lakes and mountains, colonial towns and Indian villages. From San Blas on the Pacific coast to the celebrated Monarch butterfly refuge in the high Sierra of Michoacan, the author takes us to all of his favorite places along the less traveled roads of the region, revealing their history, ecology and archaeology, as well as their arts, crafts and folklore. I found the book to be especially valuable for his keen observations on, and enthusiasm for the varied natural wonders of western Mexico. Charmingly illustrated by artist Mark Eager, Tony's guide is easy on the eye. It is well organized, packed with suggestions for the traveler, with suggested itineraries and detailed maps. A full bibliography and index is also appended. Reader from Santa Barbara, California.
"I am very impressed with his literary style and his ability to transport the reader to the very presence of the action. I've never seen the villages or localities he describes but I can almost believe that I'm there, feeling the gentle breeze off the lake, hearing the birds, seeing the children in the square and seeing the changing scenes. Tony Burton adds a new dimension. He weaves in a history rich in detail and color. The book speaks about the pride of the Mexican people and their love of their homeland." Armchair Traveler from Vermont
"I have just finished reading your great book on Western Mexico and found it one of the most interesting and factual books on Mexico I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Even where I think I know a place, you add material that will increase my enjoyment and understanding the next time I visit." Editor of AIM (Adventures in Mexico).
Back to Bookshop - Click here to order.
Sombrero Books, Box 4, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1, Canada
© Mexico Connect 1996-2006