In the Footsteps of Dracula: A Personal Journey and Travel Guide

Steven P. Unger
World Audience (2010)
ISBN 9781935444534
Reviewed by Deb Shunamon for Reader Views (09/10)


This is a fascinating travel book. Steven Unger’s “In the Footsteps of Dracula” informs, entertains, and encourages anyone curious about out-of-the-way travel, or Count Dracula, to take a trip. Descriptions and numerous pictures of the places that influenced Bram Stoker’s writing of his fictional story, and where Dracula’s historical counterpart Prince Vlad the Impaler lived and reigned, pack this travelogue. Where to locate Lucy and Mina’s favorite seat in Whitby, Yorkshire and who to call if you wish to row out to Dracula’s tomb near Snagov Lake, Romania, mingle with stories such as the time the author stumbled through a wrong door after a night of drinking local cherry brandy. This is a travel book with a subtle sense of humor for those interested in something really quite different.

The factual information provided on Prince Vlad is outright terrifying. I knew some, but not this much of the man’s violent legacy and times, and the author presents it concisely and well. The depression and creepiness it all creates appears to still be a part of some areas of Romania which, in my opinion, you would need to be a fanatical, die-hard Dracula fan to ever want to visit. However, there is also something to be said for supporting little visited areas of the world that are trying their best to economically improve through tourism. From London to Transylvania, the author overall seems to have had a great time, and his many helpful photos attest to the relatively safe and engrossing experiences that can be had on a journey like this.

Steven Unger’s book is highly detailed and informative. Like-minded enthusiasts interested in the infamous Count Dracula and Prince Vlad will have very little problem following the trail he lays out for them. Although the order of information was a bit odd at times and there is some repetition, the author has done his job well and I can see many different types of people using his book: those who love the fictional story of Count Dracula; travelers fascinated by Eastern European 14th and 15th century history, and tourists who avoid the usual spots in favor of slower-paced, lesser known places. “In the Footsteps of Dracula” is quite a remarkable travel/reading book.  

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