“I’ve traveled the length and breadth of Faerûn, and there’s always something new.” — Volo
Volothamp Geddarm, often referred to as Volo, was a widely traveled human wizard and sage of Faerûn during the mid-to-late 14th century DR. Renowned as a legendary traveler, explorer, and roguish mage, he gained fame—sometimes notoriety—for his guidebooks, including the controversial Volo’s Guide to All Things Magical.
You might also recognize him from his book book Volo’s Guide to Waterdeep, where several copies are strewn about the Yawning Portal. The back cover reads:
Well met, traveler!
You hold in your hands an amusing and insightful guide to Waterdeep – the metropolis of the North, the City of Splendors. This handy pouch-sized tome presents Volo’s choice of the finest, most spectacular, and least known (but most desired) information about the people, customs, and locations in Waterdeep – ranked with a handy coin, dagger, pipe, and tankard ratings system.
Discover:
- What it’s like to attend a private party hosted by Waterdhavian nobles,
- Where Waterdeep’s ghosts walk,
- Legends and clues about famous, as-yet-unrecovered treasures,
- What fare a typical Waterdhavian menu offers you,
- The best moon-kissed spots to meet Waterdhavians of the opposite sex,
- Waterdeep’s best shops and craftsmen,
- The best places to dine, stay, see — and, of course, avoid!
Special note: This edition of Volo’s Guide to Waterdeep, intended for travelers from beyond the borders of Faerûn, contains notes and commentary by the famous archmage and sage Elminster.”