In 1978, Rick Steves had a good thing going at home in Edmonds, Washington — until he blew it up. He was recently out of college and had already taken a few formative trips to Europe. He was a busy piano teacher with a hearty roster of students. He had a promising relationship with a girlfriend.

Check out Rick Steves' favorite guidebooks for venturing outside of Europe. From Frommer's and Fodor's to Lonely Planet, Steves thinks there's a clear winner.

Things are different in Europe — that’s why you go. But every first-time traveller has concern. Here are a few friendly tips to help smooth the way.