Going by the Book in World of Travel

“The Young American’s Scholarship Guide to Travel and Learning Abroad,” edited by Joseph Lurie, uncovers more than 4,000 scholarship opportunities offered by 70 organizations. Country and program indexes guide you through a variety of what is available in more than 80 countries. Any youth seeking a pre-college learning experience abroad will find most all the how, when, costs and where to apply information. To get a copy, send $12.95 to Intravco Press, 211 East 43rd St., Suite 1303, New York, NY 10017. The tab may sound a bit high, but 15% of it will be used for an additional scholarship fund.

Most travel agents have a copy of “Ford’s International Cruise Guide” containing one-year schedules for more than 100 ships. But for $8.95 you can obtain your own copy so you can leisurely plan a fun on-board vacation. There is a plan for every mood, and the photos and amenities for each ship are fully described. It’s $8.95 at bookstores or direct from Ford’s International Cruise Guide, 19448 Londelius St., Northridge, Calif. 91324 ($8.95, second class postpaid).

Pat Dickerman’s “Adventure Travel Abroad” provides those ready to get away from everyday life with more than 300 easy-to-reserve adventures in off-the-wall areas. Bamboo rafting, bicycle trips to gourmet restaurants, trekking in Mongolia and diving in the Mediterranean are just a few itineraries available. The guide is detailed and is full of inspirational color photos. It’s $12.95 at bookstores or available direct for $14 from Adventure Guides Inc., 36 East 57th St., New York, NY 10022.

Those who have a free spirit can still enjoy the attributes and amenities of the beautiful countries described in Fodor’s “Central America.” Regardless of political situations, that area remains a place of beauty and history that sophisticated travelers can still enjoy. The venturesome should inquire ahead to see what’s going on at the moment ($14.95).

“Mexico in 22 Days” by Steve Rogers and Tina Rosa is a short look at what to see and do in a limited time. The brief style of explanations of where to eat and stay and the what to do and see could be better, but, to quote the authors, they only skimmed the surface. However, it’s a quickie reference that could help pull a few different places out of the sombrero (John Muir: $5.95).

Baedeker’s has its first city guides available for “Rome,” “London,” “Copenhagen,” “New York,” “Singapore” and “Venice.” Each guide has a good selection of color photos, including a keyed four-color fold-out map. The information covers sightseeing, hotels, restaurants and illustrated highlights with explanations of the history, climate, people and language. These pocket-size guides will probably be given a round of applause by those who use them (Prentice Hall: $10.95 each).

The Lonely Planet “Travel Survival Kit” guides are among those that are impressive for the almost total information they contain. The one for “Alaska” by Jim Dufresne is no exception, and you’ll be happy you had a copy. And, as described, you won’t be bug-bitten or broke. There’s a good selection of color photos, maps, camping information, routes and much more, such as where to apply for a permit to catch razor clams ($8.95).

“Europe’s Wonderful Little Hotels and Inns--1987” has nearly 800 pages of information. It shows a professional touch that furnishes a most complete description of each accommodation without the overtones of being commercial in the recommendations. The maps are excellent, and it’s a relief not to be interrupted by abstract photos or amateur sketches, especially when the text carries the ball (St. Martins: $17.95).

If it is worth getting tips sometimes missed by other publications, consider “Travel Safety--Don’t Be a Target.” The information could really be a lifesaver for those at home or traveling abroad who think everyone everywhere is basically good and honest. It includes above-average suggestions about documents, prescriptions, arrest, etc. It’s written by Raymond Worring, Whitney Hibbard and Samantha Schroeder, who have been on the travel scene long enough to give you the facts. You can wait till your bookstore has it in stock, or send $6.95 (plus $1 handling) to Uniquest Publications, 2021 St. Estephe Court, Coeur d’ Alene, Ida. 83814.

“Vacation Study Abroad--1987” appears to be one of the more complete guides to planning summer study abroad. More than 2,200 programs, for ages 5 to 75, are open to Americans interested in international study in almost any endeavor. Well outlined are the costs, housing, dates, locations and deadlines. It includes a bibliography of publications about classes, sponsors and an index on the fields of study. Check your bookstore, or send $16.95 to Publications Service, Institute of International Education, 809 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017.