“This book makes a very important point about tourism: it has its consequences on the world, and what is often depicted as an agent for peace and intercultural communication is really another form of neoliberal commercial imperialism. That's a genuinely good point, and one for which I'm glad I read this book. This is important stuff.
That being said, I find problems with the format of the book, not its central point. First off, it would have worked better as a 10-page exposé instead of a complete book. The arguments end up going in circles, and there are times when the author devolves into preaching instead of providing data. Second, the layout and format of the book is confusing. Headers are everywhere and break the flow of the book, and sidebars clutter the book, frequently interrupting the author's arguments. Thirdly, the name of the series itself is misleading: "No-Nonsense Guide" implies an impartial information source, but this is really a lot more of an essay by the author.
Ultimately, the book contains important information and critical food for thought, on a topic that is completely disregarded by mainstream media. I just wish it had been written in a more compelling, and less preachy manner, so it could reach a lot more people than this book can. Still, critical reading if you're a frequent leisure traveler. You might not like what it has to say, but it has to be said.”
