Other writers, though, say the hippies have lost out. "I'm really offended by a tone that pervades much of the Let's Go writing--it's the slightly snide, know-it-all rich kid tone," says Schor.
The more lavish travelers may indeed be more numerous now, if Let's Go's growing commercialization is an indication. In addition to putting out books, it now sells knapsacks and other travel gear, started its own travel agency, and even puts ads in the guides.
"We're become a little too slick. It's HSA it's natural to try to exploit this thing," says one former researcher who requested anonymity.
But publishing manager Fishbein--sees the guide's relatively structured format as a check to overly biased evaluations. The researcher's only opportunity to editorialize is in each section's short introduction. Otherwise, they must conform to the standard, concise division of accommodations, restaurants, sights, and entertainment.
"The introduction gives you some space for getting at the soul of the place," says Rosen.
The regional guides leave more room for detail and creativity in giving travel advice because they appeal to an older, more experienced market. Of the seven regional books, the most popular are the Britain/Ireland and California/Northwest USA books.
Past researchers speak positively about their Let's Go jobs, saying that despite the low pay and long hours, their trips proved challenging and adventurous.
William Herzberg '84, though, says he probably had a little too much adventure. He was arrested in Morocco last summer on suspicion of being a spy.
"It was incredibly tense because the Royal Moroccan Forces had just taken over. I was innocently taking notes when this guy stopped me, took my identification and ransacked my things," recalls Herzberg.
He was finally allowed to leave the country, but only after presenting a letter from the government's tourist division introducing him as a Let's Go researcher.
But spending several weeks in the Sahara also proved to have its fringe benefits--Herzberg received two marriage proposals. After helping remove Herzberg's jeep from a ravine, one gentleman wanted Herzberg to repay the favor by marrying his sister.
"I asked him if she spoke English because I didn't speak their Berber dialect, but he said that didn't matter," laughs Herzberg.