Tourism to Vancouver is on the move (up 20% in the last five years). In 1997, Vancouver hosted 7.7 million overnight visitors (a 7% increase), about 60% of which were Canadians. U.S. visitors account for about 25% of the total. Seattle tourism increased 4.1% from 1996 to 1997 to 7.6 million. More than 50% of the visitors come from the U.S. Western States, with California, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska leading the pack.

Trends The continued boom in Alaskan cruises keeps this area extremely popular.

The book's chief asset in the marketplace is its pairing of Seattle and Vancouver, something that is done by none of our major competitors. The proximity of the two cities makes them ideal to pair together for one trip.

This useful guide now features several new side trips, including an excursion to Mt. Rainier, and heaps of additional information on outdoor activities -- crucial in this region. New features include information on visiting Microsoft and the new Jimi Hendrix museum, plus great new dining options in all price ranges.

This edition features a distinctive new gold cover with a hard-hitting subtitle that effectively sells the guide's unique features, plus a bold new spine that highlights the Rand McNally map inside, and lively backcover copy that creates excitement about the destination and establishes Fodor's as the brand leader.