Up the Amazon Without a Paddle

I really enjoy being an armchair traveler... Mr.Lansky's book is just a fast moving, light hearted, mind trip around the world... I am glad he did these incredible things, so I really don't have to wonder if I have missed anything by not actually doing "that thing"... especially the camel stuff...I may pan for emeralds, however, I can't say for sure... nice "mind candy" book...a fantastic perspective on things and relatable humor...

Judging from the reviews, this clearly is a book which is not likely to leave the reader indifferent. My personal experience is that it is a very funny and winning collection of travel vignettes, one which should appeal to anybody who has ever longed to cut-loose and, as the Navy would say, "See the World"--or is it "Come join the Adventure?!!!" I can't remember and it doesn't matter: the point is, if you're the kind of person likely to find humor in ad campaigns such that, then you're probably going to understand and enjoy Mr. Lansky's point-of-view. I recommend picking-up a copy and seeing for yourself. My guess is that you'll be drawn-in and that you'll know right away that this is a writer with a genuine comic talent.

I have never laughed so hard as I have during a read through the many Doug Lansky articles he has produced over the years. His writing is quite creative. He has the unique ability to capture the distinctive parts of humerous travel situations. I highly recomend this book to anyone who has traveled or even has a 'desire' to experience the world through the eyes of Doug Lansky.

In this book, Doug Lansky summarizes observations and experiences from over 60 of his travels worldwide. Each chapter is a new fascinating story and after finishing the book you are just sort of astonished that the man lived to tell his adventures. Because adventures they are, each one described in Lansky's own characteristic, observational, sometimes understated-sense-of-humour-but-always-to-the- point- style. One of the best things about the book is that I don't see anyone who would not benefit from reading it, be it the experienced traveller who will nod quitely in recognition while chuckling towards hypoxia or the domestic couch lover whose travel demons are bound to be set free by this witty collection of experiences. To pick a personal favourite among his stories is difficult but the journey up the Nambesi river, spending the night on the river banks while crocodiles are marching up and down of the water next to you definately had me biting my finger nails of. Keep up the good work Doug. I hope this planet will be big enough for you in the end.