Great Resource, April 17, 2001

This word and phrase book is an incredibly useful resource perfect for anyone traveling to Spain (there is another Berlitz guide to Latin America). The words and phrases are listed first in English (in normal print) and then in Spanish (in bold) with pronunciations. This layout is very eye catching and user friendly. Berlitz has divided the book into eight different sections, which are color coded for easy access.

Part 1 contains basic expressions and information on accommodations. Here you can find a guide to pronunciation, important words for non-specialized conversation, and general expressions. This section also has important words and phrases for securing and enjoying your accommodations (hotels, camping, etc.). Part 2 contains phrases, questions, and other important terms related to dining. Here you discover how to order, pay, complain, and select drinks. This area also includes a 10+ page "menu dictionary," which lists words necessary to get exactly what you want at a restaurant (e.g. rhubarb=ruibarbo). Part 3 relates specifically to travel including airplanes, trains, cars, gas stations, passports, emergencies, street signs, and rentals. It even includes a detailed, illustrated list of car, bicycle, and motorcycle parts in Spanish in case you break down. Part 4 has words and phrases related to sightseeing. Whether visiting the beach or the theater or anything in between, you will always know what to say and ask (such as: where can I get tickets?). This part also has phrases for meeting people. If you are going to Spain to meet a special someone, this book will help you make chitchat, invite that someone on a date, call him or her back, etc. Part 5 includes information on stores and services including words and phrases relating to banks, groceries, pharmacies, clothing, souvenirs, jewelry, toys, photography, and even how to contact the police. Part 6 contains words and phrases concerning health issues: e.g. dentists, opticians, insurance, symptoms, a list of body parts and other important things. Part 7 is a mini-dictionary consisting of commonly used words. Part 8 is a general reference section. Here you find a dictionary of written Spanish (e.g. on maps, storefronts, etc.), numbers, dates, times, holidays, a map and other general words and phrases of interest. This part also includes phone numbers for the US consulates and embassies.

I should add a disclaimer. This book will be most useful for those who already have at least a basic grasp of the Spanish language. It is not a Spanish textbook or a complete dictionary (although it has a basic one). Also, this book is not a travel guide. It does contain some basic travel information and advice (meant to be used in conjunction with the words and phrases), but not very much. Although it barely fits in my pocket, it is small enough not to be a nuisance. Overall, I highly recommend this book for anyone traveling to Spain. The size and wealth of information (224 pages), as well as the low price, combine to make this an indispensable resource.