Book excerpt: You'll never fall into the tourist traps when you travel with Frommer's. It's like having a friend show you around, taking you to the places locals like best. Our expert authors have already gone everywhere you might go--they've done the legwork for you, and they're not afraid to tell it like it is, saving you time and money. No other series offers candid reviews of so many hotels and restaurants in all price ranges. Every Frommer's Travel Guide is up-to-date, with exact prices for everything, dozens of color maps, and exciting coverage of sports, shopping, and nightlife. You'd be lost without us! Thoroughly updated every year (unlike most of the competition), Frommer's Vancouver & Victoria features gorgeous color photos of the sights and experiences that await you. The guide is meticulously researched by a local resident, who shares his favorite finds in these two crown jewels of British Columbia. You'll find great places to stay for every taste and budget, from elegant harborside hotels to family-friendly inns, and the latest on dining, from innovative Pacific Rim cuisine to traditional fish 'n' chips. You'll discover spectacular gardens, colorful neighborhoods, art galleries, beaches, and more--with detailed maps, city strolls, sizzling nightlife, and ferry trips to nearby islands. Also featured are fabulous side trips, including skiing at Whistler, and great places for whale watching, hiking, sea kayaking, and more. You'll even get an online directory that makes trip-planning a snap!