Yeah, it cuts both ways, doesn't it.

And for whatever his faults, I will defend Rick Steves to the death. He's a brilliant travel book writer -- his series is better than any other (I know nothing about his guided tours). I probably have more experience than 99.99% of travellers, and I grab a copy (often from the library) of his books when I go to Europe. Sure, I rarely stay at his recommended hotels, and eat only occasionally at his recommended restaurants, but his "nuts and bolts" info is better than anyone else's. When friends and family ask me for European travel advice, I always tell them to read Rick Steves first and then ask me questions.