It would be difficult to imagine more...

It would be difficult to imagine more readable and comprehensive destination guides than the first two titles of the new Berlitz Blueprint Guides for France and Italy.

Each presents an overview from prehistoric times, with mapped routes, hotel and restaurant recommendations and how to shop for best buys. It also has area guides to cuisine and wine, city maps and a large-scale map covering 20 pages. Complementing an excellent text are numerous color photographs. (Macmillan: $16.95).

“Frommer’s Las Vegas 1989-1990,” by Mary Rakauskas, details the many hotels and motels--costs, ambiance and restaurants. A chapter is devoted to games of chance and betting methods. Other chapters discuss the weather, clothes and how to get around town.

The guide also lists nearby things to do or see, including golf, indoor tennis, Boulder Dam, boating and skiing. (Prentice Hall: $5.95).

“The Traveler’s Handbook,” edited by Milissa Shales, suggests how to cope with theft and other travel challenges. In two sections, the book also offers advice and information on every aspect of travel, including what gestures mean in some countries and how they might be misinterpreted.

The second section is a series of listings: names and addresses of useful organizations and embassies. It details health and visa requirements, driving conditions, climates, discounts and jet lag. (Globe Pequot: $15.95).

“Bus Touring: A Guide to Charter Vacations--USA,” by Stuart Warren with Douglas Bloch, details how to travel without the hassles and hazards of driving. Seven tours are outlined, complete with points of interest, lodging and cuisine, ambiance, weather, suggested clothing and rest stops. Additional information lists tour operators that can help plan one- to three-week vacations. (John Muir: $19.95).