Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Good book for newbies, 10 Aug 2001
Covers all you need to know about the basics of snowboarding. From history too basic technique and on to advanced technique. The basics are great in this book and are written in a good clear style. However the advanced techniques could do with some more explanation. Also some more colourful pics would have been nice, but the illustrations are clear and useful. If you have not been before I would defiantly recommend reading this book before hand.

Great Learn-How-to-Board Book!, 27 Feb 1997
Great introduction to snowboarding. Provides all the language and techniques, from beginner to expert. It works best to reread it again after a few times out as you will pick up on many of the tips and techniques once you learn how the basic moves feel. I kept my copy in the car and reread some sections over lunch on my first day. Especially important to read the section on getting off of the chair lift. This has saved me from many falls, while I have watched others flounder and get injured for not following the advice. Still need to take a lesson first time out, but it will all make sense alot sooner.

If you think snowboarding is just too cool for you, then think again. Claiming to be "the first guide aimed at the post-teen crowd", this book will tell you all you need to know to get going, whatever your age or cachet.

The first chapter, "The Evolution of a Revolution", tells you where boards came from and where they're going. Once you know the history, successive chapters teach you about the correct equipment, getting started and making your first turns. And when you're proficient in the basics, you can move on to "freestyle", "almost vertical" and other death-defying moves.

Aimed at every level of boarder, the book's full colour diagrams and photography sequences make sure you know what you're letting yourself in for, and breathtaking action shots give your adrenaline all the motivation it needs. A superb guide for beginner and enthusiast alike.

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Good book for newbies, 10 Aug 2001
Covers all you need to know about the basics of snowboarding. From history too basic technique and on to advanced technique. The basics are great in this book and are written in a good clear style. However the advanced techniques could do with some more explanation. Also some more colourful pics would have been nice, but the illustrations are clear and useful. If you have not been before I would defiantly recommend reading this book before hand.

Great Learn-How-to-Board Book!, 27 Feb 1997
Great introduction to snowboarding. Provides all the language and techniques, from beginner to expert. It works best to reread it again after a few times out as you will pick up on many of the tips and techniques once you learn how the basic moves feel. I kept my copy in the car and reread some sections over lunch on my first day. Especially important to read the section on getting off of the chair lift. This has saved me from many falls, while I have watched others flounder and get injured for not following the advice. Still need to take a lesson first time out, but it will all make sense alot sooner.

Out of date by todays standards, 05 Mar 2007
I bought this book based on other readers' reviews. Whilst it's an ok intorduction to snowboarding, I feel a lot of the techniques the author talks about in this book have long been superceded. I thought the book would go into more advanced manouvres such as buttering and park tricks but that part of the book is almost non-existent.
My advice would be to buy a more up-to-date snowboarding book.

Free-reading freeriding, 31 Jan 2004
Comprehensive introduction for the novice. I've read the book and practiced on a local dry slope and feel confident of going abroad able to have a good time from day 1 of my holiday.

Makes you want to get out there!, 05 Dec 2001
I've only given this book a 4 out of 5 due to the fact that it makes me SOOOO jealous that I don't live anywhere near Lowell Hart ie: America!

The pictures are fantastic and the book is so easy to read it's near perfect. I took it snowboarding with me last year as a very scared beginner who had a number of bad experiences with the sport. This book put the whole learning process in perspective and now I'm happy to say that I am a solid intermediate boarder, aiming higher all the time!

And I thank the book (and some decent teaching) for that!

Tops for layout and design, 28 Jul 1998
I've flicked through this book at a retail outlet. It is exceptionally well laid out and easy to read. There are over 100 photos and the graphic style will appeal to the young at heart.

Comprehensive MUST book for beginners and experts alike, 20 Dec 1997
Those who are interested in learning or improving board technics, this book is an absolute must. Filled with easy understandable techniques, Hart takes you through all the fundamentals and skills needed to increase performance.

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Good book for newbies, 10 Aug 2001
Covers all you need to know about the basics of snowboarding. From history too basic technique and on to advanced technique. The basics are great in this book and are written in a good clear style. However the advanced techniques could do with some more explanation. Also some more colourful pics would have been nice, but the illustrations are clear and useful. If you have not been before I would defiantly recommend reading this book before hand.

Great Learn-How-to-Board Book!, 27 Feb 1997
Great introduction to snowboarding. Provides all the language and techniques, from beginner to expert. It works best to reread it again after a few times out as you will pick up on many of the tips and techniques once you learn how the basic moves feel. I kept my copy in the car and reread some sections over lunch on my first day. Especially important to read the section on getting off of the chair lift. This has saved me from many falls, while I have watched others flounder and get injured for not following the advice. Still need to take a lesson first time out, but it will all make sense alot sooner.

Out of date by todays standards, 05 Mar 2007
I bought this book based on other readers' reviews. Whilst it's an ok intorduction to snowboarding, I feel a lot of the techniques the author talks about in this book have long been superceded. I thought the book would go into more advanced manouvres such as buttering and park tricks but that part of the book is almost non-existent.
My advice would be to buy a more up-to-date snowboarding book.

Free-reading freeriding, 31 Jan 2004
Comprehensive introduction for the novice. I've read the book and practiced on a local dry slope and feel confident of going abroad able to have a good time from day 1 of my holiday.

Makes you want to get out there!, 05 Dec 2001
I've only given this book a 4 out of 5 due to the fact that it makes me SOOOO jealous that I don't live anywhere near Lowell Hart ie: America!

The pictures are fantastic and the book is so easy to read it's near perfect. I took it snowboarding with me last year as a very scared beginner who had a number of bad experiences with the sport. This book put the whole learning process in perspective and now I'm happy to say that I am a solid intermediate boarder, aiming higher all the time!

And I thank the book (and some decent teaching) for that!

Tops for layout and design, 28 Jul 1998
I've flicked through this book at a retail outlet. It is exceptionally well laid out and easy to read. There are over 100 photos and the graphic style will appeal to the young at heart.

Comprehensive MUST book for beginners and experts alike, 20 Dec 1997
Those who are interested in learning or improving board technics, this book is an absolute must. Filled with easy understandable techniques, Hart takes you through all the fundamentals and skills needed to increase performance.

Excellent book..., 08 Mar 2008
Beautifully illustrated and informative book. But it should be made clear, than although it looks very much like a standard coffee table book, there's a lot more text and there's a lot about the history of snowboarding in the book, and the photographs reflect that focus. Anyone looking just for lush photography of fresh powder, big mountains, and big air tricks may be a little disappointed (but only a little).

Overall a great book for anyone with more that just an immediate or superficial interest in snowboarding...i.e. anyone who wants to know more than just tips and trick for current use, or to see more than just beautful inspiring photography from recent times (though those are both great too!)

Perfect presentation of the sport's history!, 02 Jun 2007
I was impressed reading this book, mainly because there are so many bad and skin-deep books on snowboard out there, that I could not expect much in advance... Having seen more than 30 movies that have to do with snowboard and read much more magazines, a skin-deep presentation of my favorite sport would have been extremely boring for me.

But the author has done some excellent profiles on the right persons, from the inventors of the sport (Jake Burton, Tom Sims and even before), to not so famous contributors (like the director of Standard Films' TB series), and from influential riders such as Craig Kelly, Shaun Palmer, etc all the way to today and Shawn White. Very nice pictures, some of them are very rare, and very good overall layout .

I would suggest this book to any snowboard fan. Personally, I have just found a sureshot present for many of my friends!

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Good book for newbies, 10 Aug 2001
Covers all you need to know about the basics of snowboarding. From history too basic technique and on to advanced technique. The basics are great in this book and are written in a good clear style. However the advanced techniques could do with some more explanation. Also some more colourful pics would have been nice, but the illustrations are clear and useful. If you have not been before I would defiantly recommend reading this book before hand.

Great Learn-How-to-Board Book!, 27 Feb 1997
Great introduction to snowboarding. Provides all the language and techniques, from beginner to expert. It works best to reread it again after a few times out as you will pick up on many of the tips and techniques once you learn how the basic moves feel. I kept my copy in the car and reread some sections over lunch on my first day. Especially important to read the section on getting off of the chair lift. This has saved me from many falls, while I have watched others flounder and get injured for not following the advice. Still need to take a lesson first time out, but it will all make sense alot sooner.

Out of date by todays standards, 05 Mar 2007
I bought this book based on other readers' reviews. Whilst it's an ok intorduction to snowboarding, I feel a lot of the techniques the author talks about in this book have long been superceded. I thought the book would go into more advanced manouvres such as buttering and park tricks but that part of the book is almost non-existent.
My advice would be to buy a more up-to-date snowboarding book.

Free-reading freeriding, 31 Jan 2004
Comprehensive introduction for the novice. I've read the book and practiced on a local dry slope and feel confident of going abroad able to have a good time from day 1 of my holiday.

Makes you want to get out there!, 05 Dec 2001
I've only given this book a 4 out of 5 due to the fact that it makes me SOOOO jealous that I don't live anywhere near Lowell Hart ie: America!

The pictures are fantastic and the book is so easy to read it's near perfect. I took it snowboarding with me last year as a very scared beginner who had a number of bad experiences with the sport. This book put the whole learning process in perspective and now I'm happy to say that I am a solid intermediate boarder, aiming higher all the time!

And I thank the book (and some decent teaching) for that!

Tops for layout and design, 28 Jul 1998
I've flicked through this book at a retail outlet. It is exceptionally well laid out and easy to read. There are over 100 photos and the graphic style will appeal to the young at heart.

Comprehensive MUST book for beginners and experts alike, 20 Dec 1997
Those who are interested in learning or improving board technics, this book is an absolute must. Filled with easy understandable techniques, Hart takes you through all the fundamentals and skills needed to increase performance.

Excellent book..., 08 Mar 2008
Beautifully illustrated and informative book. But it should be made clear, than although it looks very much like a standard coffee table book, there's a lot more text and there's a lot about the history of snowboarding in the book, and the photographs reflect that focus. Anyone looking just for lush photography of fresh powder, big mountains, and big air tricks may be a little disappointed (but only a little).

Overall a great book for anyone with more that just an immediate or superficial interest in snowboarding...i.e. anyone who wants to know more than just tips and trick for current use, or to see more than just beautful inspiring photography from recent times (though those are both great too!)

Perfect presentation of the sport's history!, 02 Jun 2007
I was impressed reading this book, mainly because there are so many bad and skin-deep books on snowboard out there, that I could not expect much in advance... Having seen more than 30 movies that have to do with snowboard and read much more magazines, a skin-deep presentation of my favorite sport would have been extremely boring for me.

But the author has done some excellent profiles on the right persons, from the inventors of the sport (Jake Burton, Tom Sims and even before), to not so famous contributors (like the director of Standard Films' TB series), and from influential riders such as Craig Kelly, Shaun Palmer, etc all the way to today and Shawn White. Very nice pictures, some of them are very rare, and very good overall layout .

I would suggest this book to any snowboard fan. Personally, I have just found a sureshot present for many of my friends!

It is a good basic snowboard technique book, 26 Jul 2001
Having read the 5 star reviews I was expecting much from this book but was slightly disappointed. I have also read Lowell Harts book and the piece de resistance 'Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding' by Kevin Ryan. This book gets down to basics and covers turns and simple manouevres but for £3 more you can get a feast of snowboard info (Kevin Ryan)

Easy to understand. Very helpful., 26 Nov 1999
Should you be thinking about learning to snowboard, this is the book for you. Very easy to read and understand. Great book for carving boarders.

Outstanding! Top Notch! A must for all ability levels..., 26 Nov 1999
Thank you Mr. Waide! This book helped out a great deal. I have taken many lessons to no avail. When I am in the states I will look you up and get a weeks worth of private lessons. I have passed the book on to friends.

Buy this book!, 30 Jul 2008
This book can teach you how to snowboard without an instructor.

I self taught myself and my girlfriend to snowboard in only a few days with the aid of this book.

The great thing about this book are the diagrams which explain *where* to apply pressure to the board.

Previously, i had several lessons in which they taught twisting of the upper body and weighting of the leading foot to initiate turns.

The McNab method teaches you to initiate turns with just movements of the feet combined with raising and lowering the body.

You also end up looking alot more relaxed and controlled than people who use twisting to turn the board.

Bottom line, buy this book if you want to learn to snowboard without an instructor but with very good technique.

Ross

Who needs lessons?, 11 Mar 2008
Having studied this book/DVD I learnt to snowboard in a 3 days, and could get down green/blue slopes fairly confidently. I had the advantage of being able to ski already (though being nearly 50 didn't help). There is still lots to work on the next time I'm in the alps, so I'll be using the book again next year.

Excellent tuition, 17 Feb 2008
This is an excellent book written in an easy to understand format. The included DVD is also ideal to see the theory actually in practice. This is great for beginners and will undoubtedly contain something that will improve your riding. The pressure point method for turns is superb. Recommended.

Brilliant book to learn from, 29 Jan 2008
This is the first time I've come across a guide that was so detailed and well explained.
All my previous lessons have been at French resorts, so to finally be taught in English makes a big difference.
The accompanying DVD really does make a difference (and access to a nearby indoor slope, helps too!).
It is the first time I've heard the concept of pressure/weight distribution described in a manner that is easy to understand - I can suddenly ride switch without effort and have even started hitting kickers - so it definitely works.
I hope an advanced course comes out to teach how all the various flat-land tricks etc are performed.

I highly recommend it to anyone that is starting out and also to those intermediate/advanced riders that want to reach the next level (Free-riding & Free-style).

Fab book, 17 Apr 2007
I have just come back from the French Alps having learnt to snowboard for the first time. I am profoundly deaf and found it difficult to understand everything the snowboard instructors say and therefore this book is a brilliant resource for me as it confirmed what I understood from the instructors that I needed to do with snowboarding and filled in the gaps for the bits I didn't hear from the instructors. And the book is a brill tool to take me to the next stage!! I can't wait to go back again next year!!!

A must for every serious skier, 17 Sep 2008
This is a very well written, well documented, no nonsense book which was recommended to me initially by UK French Alps specialist PeakRetreats.co.uk as they use it themselves. It does not have details of as many resorts as other books but the ones it covers are well researched.

A valuable addition to your snowsports knowledge, 05 Mar 2007
Great read. A very informative book and a must for anyone from complete newcomers to either sport to seasoned riders/skiers looking to improve their workouts and exercise routines for maximum impact on their snowboarding or skiing. Just as it says in the blurb above: flexibility, endurance, strength, balance and plyometric training are all introduced to the reader, and expanded upon to include examples as to why each of these is important in both sports. Exercises are demonstrated by use of extensive, step-by-step photos, with information on muscles worked etc., as well as suggestions to increase effectiveness as you progress.

The book seems to have a slight snowboard-dominant slant in terms of the balance exercises involved, though this may just be because I am a snowboarder rather than a skier and have therefore read it in that way. Just as a note - if you are just starting out snowboarding and looking at this book to get fit as you learn, it would go great with Kevin Ryan's "The Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding". I read this book before I started riding 6 years ago and it was extremely useful (it doesn't focus on fitness as such but is an essential learning aid).


Terrific general reference guide, but the reviews could do with a bit of an up date., 15 Feb 2008
As a snow border I'd always bemoaned the fact that all the guidebooks seemed to be written by a bunch of elitist skiers. So I was overjoyed to discover the WSG back in 2004
I've bough a couple of editions of this book and it is well worth the money if your planning a boarding holiday and need some general advice on a resort. Like all travel guides certain entries are a little wide of the mark or at worst omit fundamental pieces of information, but on the whole the guide covers the key topics about a wide range of resorts.
Unfortunately, much of the information in this guide has not been updated for about three years - the vast majority of entries in my original 04 edition are the same as the current edition. The only discernable difference seems to be some colour photos and slightly updated graphics.
Obviously most of the resorts remain the same, but things do change and it would have been nice for WSG to move with the times.
Still, don't be put off a purchase. If you need an all purpose guide to planning a trip this is as good a place as any to start.

Good book for newbies, 10 Aug 2001
Covers all you need to know about the basics of snowboarding. From history too basic technique and on to advanced technique. The basics are great in this book and are written in a good clear style. However the advanced techniques could do with some more explanation. Also some more colourful pics would have been nice, but the illustrations are clear and useful. If you have not been before I would defiantly recommend reading this book before hand.

Great Learn-How-to-Board Book!, 27 Feb 1997
Great introduction to snowboarding. Provides all the language and techniques, from beginner to expert. It works best to reread it again after a few times out as you will pick up on many of the tips and techniques once you learn how the basic moves feel. I kept my copy in the car and reread some sections over lunch on my first day. Especially important to read the section on getting off of the chair lift. This has saved me from many falls, while I have watched others flounder and get injured for not following the advice. Still need to take a lesson first time out, but it will all make sense alot sooner.

Out of date by todays standards, 05 Mar 2007
I bought this book based on other readers' reviews. Whilst it's an ok intorduction to snowboarding, I feel a lot of the techniques the author talks about in this book have long been superceded. I thought the book would go into more advanced manouvres such as buttering and park tricks but that part of the book is almost non-existent.
My advice would be to buy a more up-to-date snowboarding book.

Free-reading freeriding, 31 Jan 2004
Comprehensive introduction for the novice. I've read the book and practiced on a local dry slope and feel confident of going abroad able to have a good time from day 1 of my holiday.

Makes you want to get out there!, 05 Dec 2001
I've only given this book a 4 out of 5 due to the fact that it makes me SOOOO jealous that I don't live anywhere near Lowell Hart ie: America!

The pictures are fantastic and the book is so easy to read it's near perfect. I took it snowboarding with me last year as a very scared beginner who had a number of bad experiences with the sport. This book put the whole learning process in perspective and now I'm happy to say that I am a solid intermediate boarder, aiming higher all the time!

And I thank the book (and some decent teaching) for that!

Tops for layout and design, 28 Jul 1998
I've flicked through this book at a retail outlet. It is exceptionally well laid out and easy to read. There are over 100 photos and the graphic style will appeal to the young at heart.

Comprehensive MUST book for beginners and experts alike, 20 Dec 1997
Those who are interested in learning or improving board technics, this book is an absolute must. Filled with easy understandable techniques, Hart takes you through all the fundamentals and skills needed to increase performance.

Excellent book..., 08 Mar 2008
Beautifully illustrated and informative book. But it should be made clear, than although it looks very much like a standard coffee table book, there's a lot more text and there's a lot about the history of snowboarding in the book, and the photographs reflect that focus. Anyone looking just for lush photography of fresh powder, big mountains, and big air tricks may be a little disappointed (but only a little).

Overall a great book for anyone with more that just an immediate or superficial interest in snowboarding...i.e. anyone who wants to know more than just tips and trick for current use, or to see more than just beautful inspiring photography from recent times (though those are both great too!)

Perfect presentation of the sport's history!, 02 Jun 2007
I was impressed reading this book, mainly because there are so many bad and skin-deep books on snowboard out there, that I could not expect much in advance... Having seen more than 30 movies that have to do with snowboard and read much more magazines, a skin-deep presentation of my favorite sport would have been extremely boring for me.

But the author has done some excellent profiles on the right persons, from the inventors of the sport (Jake Burton, Tom Sims and even before), to not so famous contributors (like the director of Standard Films' TB series), and from influential riders such as Craig Kelly, Shaun Palmer, etc all the way to today and Shawn White. Very nice pictures, some of them are very rare, and very good overall layout .

I would suggest this book to any snowboard fan. Personally, I have just found a sureshot present for many of my friends!

It is a good basic snowboard technique book, 26 Jul 2001
Having read the 5 star reviews I was expecting much from this book but was slightly disappointed. I have also read Lowell Harts book and the piece de resistance 'Illustrated Guide to Snowboarding' by Kevin Ryan. This book gets down to basics and covers turns and simple manouevres but for £3 more you can get a feast of snowboard info (Kevin Ryan)

Easy to understand. Very helpful., 26 Nov 1999
Should you be thinking about learning to snowboard, this is the book for you. Very easy to read and understand. Great book for carving boarders.

Outstanding! Top Notch! A must for all ability levels..., 26 Nov 1999
Thank you Mr. Waide! This book helped out a great deal. I have taken many lessons to no avail. When I am in the states I will look you up and get a weeks worth of private lessons. I have passed the book on to friends.

Comprehensive Coverage, 05 Jul 2007
Virtually every resort you can think of is listed here and by and large reviewed in a comprehansive fashion. My only complaint would be that it's sometimes hard to compare resorts against eachother as no comparison tables are included. It's a pretty dry read - informational and exhaustive, but better for reading up on a specific resort than for getting an overall feel of where to plan your holiday.

Having said that, it's head and shoulders above any competitor in terms of accuracy, statistics and universal coverage.