If you’re like me, you have a Top 5 (or even Top 30) list of countries to visit. That’s the easy part. But get much further into your planning and questions start rolling in: When is monsoon season in India? Do I want to travel to France for Bastille Day or in the shoulder season? The ‘when’ becomes just as important as the ‘where.’

The new book “Where to Go When,” just might help.

The photo-filled coffee-table book reads like an inspirational travel encyclopedia, perfect for early travel planning. Destinations are calendared by month, categorized by travel interest (natural wonders/active adventures/family getaways), and about 130 are featured in spreads that showcase DK Eyewitness Travel’s colorful and evocative photos.

Just a few flips of the pages and I’m already planning years’ worth of vacations. I consider the Yucatan in March — it’s recommended for its culture and festivals — and Lhasa in October. I’m reassured that my Cambodia trip was at the best time of year (February) but disappointed to learn that Belize would be best in May (not what I had hoped for). Especially helpful for cross-comparing several destinations: cost per day for 2 (or family of 4), dos and don’ts, and suggested itineraries.

No doubt the book will do well — if not for the lovely photos then for the reoccuring need to seek out a new destination; never at the same time of year, never for the same reason.

Joseph Rosendo, the book’s Consultant Editor, begins his book tour at the two branches of my favorite local travel bookstore:

Sunday, October 28 — Book Passage, Corte Madera, CA
Monday, October 29 — Book Passage, San Francisco, CA