Picked this up at the Greenwich Market in London, and started reading it at Starbucks in the O2 Arena. Hilarious so far!

I don’t think Thacker intends to write the book either as a classic travel book (well, you kinda get that from the title, to be honest) or a funny book. It’s a unique combination and it works all the way through! From the very first page, we are embarking on a journey around Europe and a journey to the human soul too. The soul of the tourist, the local, the driver, the professional in this industry as well. And it’s done in a really interesting and realistic way: trips, especially like the ones he describes and take a few weeks, are never without problems, they are not a simple stroll around sights and a taste of the local culture. Trips are eventful, loads of surprises take place (even when you don’t add alcohol) but things usually work out. I think the book gave us a rare look into how difficult it is to be a tour guide, how big the responsibility is, although Thacker seems to juggle things somehow and enjoy himself.
Thacker’s writing is smooth, laid back and although the book is full of information, stories, incidents, names, places, food, etc., the reader doesn’t get confused or tired. And, I’m sure, doing that in a style that looks so smooth and easy to read must had been really hard work. The book is funny, full of funny incidents and jokes about the locals and the countries they visit, but somehow he doesn’t get into clichés or overdo it, doesn’t insult anyone and is often sarcastic about himself, like the fact he gets so easily lost. This combination of funny and informative goes back and forth throughout the book in a very balanced way and that makes sure the reader doesn’t get tired.
I also loved his descriptions. Of everything. Description of food and local delicacies and the places where you can find them were beautiful, they had me drooling and taking notes for the places in case I travel there. The description of the local culture and everyday life was unconventional but respectful of their individuality.
I absolutely enjoyed reading the book. I haven’t been to any of the countries in the book but when I go, I want a tour guide like Thacker! My personal experience from a tour guides is a rather boring one, so I’d love to have some that’s different and fun! I admit laughing at some of the practical jokes he played on his group, although it’s not typically “right” but I want to believe that they themselves must have laughed when they realized. I learned a lot of stuff out of the book and I look forward to going to those places and experiencing myself what they have to offer.
The book has a lot of history itself, it was bought while I was playing tour guide for Luz at the Greenwich Market in London. A book to remember. Thank you so much again Luz.