Here are books (and a few other items) on travel that I recommend:
(Even though my focus is on International Travel, many of these "general items" are great for domestic travel, also).
Feel free to
contact me if you have any specific questions on any other items.
Stuart Gustafson --
America’s International Travel Expert™
RECOMMENDED Travel Books
Copyright (c) 2009-2010 by Stuart Gustafson Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
General Travel
 
I have this and I have used it. I've met Anne, and she knows her stuff.
  This is the 21" roll-aboard luggage that we use; mine is Blue and my
wife's is Merlot. This is the size we took with us for a 4 week trip in
Europe!
  This is the matching "backpack" -- you can use the strap and sling it
across one shoulder if you want. This and the 21" Roll-Aboard are all we
take with us.
Europe
 
  A great "first book" that explains how to travel through Europe with the
least hassles. We've been on a 21-day tour from Rick, and it was great!
We're planning our next one in 2011.
  We're using this Lonely Planet guide for our 2011 trip
  And if you weren't convinced that the book itself is great, Julia Roberts is
now in the movie.
  Watch these shows even if you're not on any tour; your overall travel
experience will be enhanced.
I'm not Jewish, but this 600-page book from an authority on European
Jewish Travel just might make your trip much better
All of Europe covered by one of travel's leading authorities. This new
edition comes out October 2010
If you're planning to see Europe from the relaxing seats on a train, then
this is the book you should have.
  This is THE BOOK to take with you on your cruises in Europe; the book
covers over 25 cruise lines and dozens of ports.
Australasia
 
  Even though it's a long flight from the USA, I still like this place. In fact, it's
the primary setting for my second mystery novel (oops, don't tell anyone)
  Yes, I know there's much more to Australia, but for first-timers, this is
THE CITY to visit. They have a great transit system, and a walk along The
Rocks is awesome (next to Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and pubs).
  This book has 400 pages of excellent guide material to help you plan
your own tour, or to add to a cruise or a set tour. Both islands are super!
  I've been to Singapore numerous times, but not to Malaysia (its
neighbor) or to Brunei. I would trust Lonely Planet when I visit there.
  The information on diving in the South Pacific makes this book worth it,
even if you don't use it for anything else!
  This colorful and complete guide provides easy access to Thai history
and culture, religion and politics, music, sports, and festivals.
  An ideal take-along for this times when you have a quick stop-over in
Hong Kong or Macau, and you want to know the best places to see.
  1,000 pages and 250+ maps of China -- what more would you need?
This is the one!
  This great book on Beijing includes lots of maps that also have the
Chinese translations for easier navigation throughout the city.
  I've enjoyed my travels to Taiwan, especially going to the Presidential
Palace for the exquisite displays of art and artifacts.
  Over 400 pages and hundreds of new photographs to make this vibrant
country come a live for you.
  Lots of "Top 10" lists for your stay in Tokyo; you can't go wrong.
Maps
 
Great planning map for France; water-resistant paper; w/ city map of
Paris; goes with us for our May 2011 tour of French villages & vineyards
I use a Lonely Planet Sydney map when I'm in Sydney (which is 4 times
in 2010)
Waterproof map of Europe plus 9 city maps and rail map on back side. A
definite MUST.