"Advice for the mobile but not agile traveler"

The subtitle of this heartwarming travel guide is: A Journey for the Mobile but Not Agile. The author and his wife, in their mid-70s, are experienced and frequent travelers who have provided a guide aimed at people whose age and physical limitations mean they can walk--but not too far--and can climb steps--but not too many.

The book is divided into two sections: a journal of their trip through the northwest Highlands of Scotland, and a section of excellent advice for all travelers and for the "creaky" travelers.

The first section describes the breathtaking scenery and wonderful small towns and inns the Rovetchs visited: "This is sit-and-stare country. It has a quality that empties the mind, touches the soul, and lets the good stuff in." The author includes much information on history and culture of the Highlands; quotes from other travel guides, traveler journals, and the journals of Queen Victoria. He speaks with great fondness of the people they met in Scotland, and describes the Highlander's "instinct for 'community'" and "abiding love and respect for the land". If you have ever dreamed of a trip to northern Scotland, you must read this book to get a feel for the people and place.

Within the narrative about their travels are included many tidbits of advice for a comfortable and relaxing journey. The author advises taking things at an easy pace: "leave plenty of time to pause and inhale the views along the way, get to the next stop and get settled in by early afternoon, and don't get there tired." He reminds us of the stress put on both body and mind by coping with crowded airports and uncomfortable plane flights and jet lag. And all stresses are especially difficult for the aged or infirm traveller. Sensible suggestions are provided for making the trip as easy as possible. For example, Rovetch strongly advises the use of a cane -- it makes walking so much easier plus encourages others to treat you with more consideration and helpfulness; he even points out that a folding cane will fit in a tote bag. And he reminds the traveller to get a "cane prescription" from their doctor, since some airport security consider canes as possible weapons and require a medical letter stating that you need one.

And he reminds us all that we shouldn't have to come home to recover from our vacation.

The second section, "On Being a Traveller", is useful to anyone planning a trip and includes some of the most sensible and helpful general traveler and tourist advice I've read. It then goes into specifics for the "mobile but not agile", starting with the 'How Creaky Are You?' reality test covering things like how far can you walk at a time; how long can you be on your feet before needing to sit and rest; how easy is it for you to walk up hills or climb stairs or lift a suitcase.

Rovetch's advice covers:
· Balancing cost versus need: it is often worth it to spend a little more to be more comfortable and relaxed.
· Rental cars - how to choose an appropriate model; remember the very high price of gas in other countries.
· Renting a cell phone for emergency use (most US cell phones won't work in Europe).
· Where you stay: elevators versus stairs; handicapped bathroom or other special needs; food onsite or very close.
· Making special arrangements: for example, why you shouldn't be shy about requesting a wheelchair in airports.
· Planning times to just sit and read or people-watch, to rest between more strenuous days.

The author's final advice to the creaky traveler: "Most of all ask, ask, ask and tell, tell, tell. Let people know of any special needs you have."

Reviewed by Raelene Gorlinsky
Posted December 26, 2002

Summary

This book explores the hidden places of Britain's last wilderness along the rugged coast of Northwest Scotland. Part travel story and part guidebook, but all charm and wit,this book transports us to another culture. On the way it details the planning and navigation tips essential for successful journeys for travelers who are "mobile but not agile" as well as for their younger counterparts.