FROM THE PUBLISHER: PAMELA LANIER is the leading author in the
boutique-accommodations field. In the past 18 years, she has also been
involved in travel as a force for international understanding and peace. She
is a recognized travel expert, especially well known for her contributions to
the eco-travel industry, and was recently named the "Lewis and Clark of modern
travel" by the Tribune Syndication. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area
and loves to cook for and entertain friends.