Congratulations on picking up this book.....it means that you have a passion, or at least a great desire, for travel. If you are expecting, however, a "travel guide," then this is NOT the book for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an experience on the sometimes fun, sometimes tense, fearful or just plain gritty scenarios that can occur during travel, then this is the book for you. Having traveled with my wife for more than 30 years, we have traipsed around the world to over 100 countries which have fostered some funny, some gritty and some plain scary tales. Lest one think that all travels will encounter these bumps and detours, fear not, for this book is also lavishly illustrated with many photos from the regions where "Murphy was not in attendance," as well. So, sit back, relax, and step into our shoes to travel with us to view the world in less than rose-colored glasses, but oh so worthwhile...