There is too much information in the information age. Travel agents overflow with brochures, books and films seek to inspire us and the internet allows us to research any destination we fancy. Choosing a holiday can give you serious eye strain.

Which? Holiday Destination is a solution to this problem. Countries are summarised in a few pages and the pre-departure advice confined to nine pages. The 69 countries covered by the guide are divided into cities and regions, each with a two-line summary based on a key at the front of the book. When you know what you are interested in, a quick glance will show whether or not it is worth reading on. If you decide to read on, you will find useful sections such as best resort, best sights and best excursions organised by region. General information on red tape and when to visit is found at the end of each chapter.

Useful features include lists of package operators and their contact details. The smaller specialist tour operators have gained high satisfaction levels in the Holiday Which? survey of tour operators, and all the operators are fully bonded. Independent travellers get advice on the possibility of cheap flights and the best methods of in-country transport. Comparative rainfall and temperature tables speed up the task for sun-seekers. The guide to living costs is rough, dividing countries into five bands, which leaves room for a lot of variation.

The entries are short and honest and there are few illustrations. The guide is a starting point, but it would be difficult to plan a holiday based on this book alone. It includes website addresses for tourist offices and other sources of further information. Use it to choose your destination and then do your homework.