The Rough Guide to Central America on a Budget - Top Sights, Cheap Eats, Best Nightlife.  Rough Guides are a general guidebook series designed for independent travelers on a range of budgets seeking  the best cultural and historical coverage but just as interested in finding-out-of-the-way beaches and clubs. The guides combine opinionated reviews with the most up-to-date
information on accommodations, restaurants, sights, and activities.

The Rough Guide to Central America on a Budget is packed with all that the budget traveler needs to prepare and enjoy their trip -

* an introductory section, including highlights of each region
* in-depth coverage of all the must-see sights in 7 countries
* comprehensive listings of the best places to stay, eat, party
* useful spanish words and phrases
* detailed maps for over 100 locations

Now that we are traveling with a kid, we don't really need the nightlife part of this book, and there are no entries on traveling with children - but this travel guide is quite detailed for all the things we'd need to plan a trip to Central America.

It includes itineraries, basics (getting there, getting around, etc.), a culture guide, health and travel essentials, country guides, and language guides.

As always with Rough Guides Budget travel books, there are a wide array of budget options, each one laid out in great detail. You never feel like you'll walk into a dive, with this guide. For instance, the Hotel Silani in Guatemala's description: "Turn right off the dock and walk till the end of the path. Tranquil setting with superb lakeside views and a lovely little treehouse to stay in, as well as some more traditional doubles." - who can resist THAT?

Or, try Patty's Bistro, in Belize: "A brightly decorated, small place that draws both locals and tourists. Great Belizean , Mexican and American fare - cheeseburgers to fish soups."  - anything with locals has to be good - what a great recommendation!

This book is an incredible find, and a great resource for any traveler, but especially those that would like to stretch their money to travel more.