Everyone Else is a Tourist

Despite all the downsides, there’s no getting away from getting away. Well-travelled Dirk Schümer explains why and provides us with an entirely subjective encyclopaedia of travellers en route.

It’s probably evolution that’s to blame for mankind’s peripatetic disposition. As if we hadn’t outgrown our nomadic roots aeons ago, we still seem driven by an obsessive wanderlust that compels us to abandon our home comforts and take at least one trip a year. In the role of participating observer, seasoned traveller Dirk Schümer has spent many a year engaged in extensive, in-depth analysis of the idiosyncrasies of homo touristicus. He delves into our bulging cases and watches our ludicrous contortions as we struggle to stow our hand luggage into the overhead lockers. He informs hoteliers how to properly equip a bathroom and he’s already sampled the lambs’ brains and a schnapps that goes by the name of ‘Black Death’ on our behalf.
Whether you’re setting out alone or in a group, whether you’re going to Burma or Bavaria, Australia or Austria, you’d be well advised to consult Dirk Schümer before you take off. You’ll discover what to expect abroad, how best to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and how to deal with a crisis. Or, if you still haven’t decided on a destination, why not just stay home and put your feet up with this book — because reading can be just as mind-expanding as travel.