Georgina Campbell's Ireland: The GuideEpicure Press, €20
Georgina Campbell's guides have become something of an institution in Ireland, and the latest appears to be no exception. This is an enormous book, with more than 1,200 recommendations on densely set pages.
With so many entries, there are always going to be a few that will have you scratching your head, but it is one of the few guides that does not charge establishments for listings, and the publisher is at pains to point out that all entries have been independently and anonymously assessed. This is an exhaustive guide, ideal for those who find themselves wandering the highways and byways of Ireland in search of something a little different, and well worth stuffing in the glovebox. The journey-planner itineraries with suggestions for tempting stop-off points are a nice touch.
Ireland's Blue Book 2009Order at irelandsbluebook.com
Of a much more succinct nature is the Blue Book guide, a selection of luxury homes, hotels and restaurants for the more discerning traveller with deep pockets to match.
Just 42 entries make it into this slip of a book, and they are all at the luxury end of the scale, though that doesn't mean they are five-star behemoths; many are elegant country homes and smaller, elegant establishments.
Blue Book is a marketing organisation, but you are unlikely to be disappointed thanks to the calibre of establishments on offer. This is not the place for bargain budget options, though the guide's website does have an updated list of special offers across its range of members, and its voucher scheme is a popular gift option.
• lmackin@irishtimes.com