The author's attitude just really rubbed me the wrong way the whole time. He often came across as condescending, or he'd make light of actually terrible things happening in these places. Maybe it could be a useful read if you literally never realised that places like Iraq, North Korea, etc. have regular citizens just living out their lives, but otherwise it's not doing much.



Great insight, interesting insight into countries many of us will never have the opportunity to visit. However, it's poorly written and much of the magic/ intrigue gets lost in the delivery. Disappointing.

great insights into places i wish i could visit but am unlikely to ever be able to. like his style a lot