I travelled to Canada and the United States in late 2001/early 2002. It was my second trip to North America and took place only months after 11 September so security was particularly tight and I got the third degree when crossing from Canada to the US near Lethbridge. Lucky I'm white; a middle-eastern chap was refused entry while I was eventually allowed in.

Although my travel was during the internet age, I still relied on "The Rough Guide to the Pacific Northwest" for my travels, and it became a trusted companion, although at times it foreshadowed the hardcopy guidebook's downfall, sending me to various places that no longer existed.

I haven't bought a guidebook for my last few trips and I can't help but think I will miss looking back at my bookshelf in the future and kicking myself for not buying them. ( )