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The Travelling Ape: What Travelling (Nearly) Everywhere Taught Me about Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness
“Heartfelt, illuminating, and frequently humorous” — Thomas Swick, The Joys of Travel
“A triumph of positivity” — NomadMania
“A travel book like no other” — Matt Walker, Europe United
" At once a bible for us dromomaniacs and a persuasive polemic for why you should become one" — Travis Jeppesen, See You Again Pyongyang
"‘These fun, inspiring (and sometimes alarming) adventures will persuade you that the urge to travel is in our DNA" —
Charles Wheelan, We Came, We Saw, We Left
What’s our planet really like?
Are humans mostly good or bad?
Is civilisation heading in the right or wrong direction?
How many rhetorical questions can you ask before it gets boring?
One bewildered, insignificant ape believes he has answers to these questions. Michael Mackay Richards is one of around 400 Homo sapiens – 0.000000001% of people who’ve ever lived – to have visited over 150 of the world’s 195 countries. Which last time he checked, was officially quite a lot of countries.
The Travelling Ape is an Amazon best-selling book that explores what travelling the world taught him about life, humanity, and the geopolitical turmoil that so defines us. And how the journey changed him as a person, too. From the streets of Pyongyang, to silent meditation retreats in India, and to riding an abandoned roller coaster in Iraq for some reason, no stone is left unturned on this epic (and sometimes weird) global odyssey. A journey infused with sharp insights and equally readable anecdotes of personal humiliation, when travel goes wrong.
With a unique voice, one of the best-travelled apes in history offers you a fresh take on the world.
It’s one that just might help you fall back in love with it.
“A triumph of positivity” — NomadMania
“A travel book like no other” — Matt Walker, Europe United
" At once a bible for us dromomaniacs and a persuasive polemic for why you should become one" — Travis Jeppesen, See You Again Pyongyang
"‘These fun, inspiring (and sometimes alarming) adventures will persuade you that the urge to travel is in our DNA" —
Charles Wheelan, We Came, We Saw, We Left
What’s our planet really like?
Are humans mostly good or bad?
Is civilisation heading in the right or wrong direction?
How many rhetorical questions can you ask before it gets boring?
One bewildered, insignificant ape believes he has answers to these questions. Michael Mackay Richards is one of around 400 Homo sapiens – 0.000000001% of people who’ve ever lived – to have visited over 150 of the world’s 195 countries. Which last time he checked, was officially quite a lot of countries.
The Travelling Ape is an Amazon best-selling book that explores what travelling the world taught him about life, humanity, and the geopolitical turmoil that so defines us. And how the journey changed him as a person, too. From the streets of Pyongyang, to silent meditation retreats in India, and to riding an abandoned roller coaster in Iraq for some reason, no stone is left unturned on this epic (and sometimes weird) global odyssey. A journey infused with sharp insights and equally readable anecdotes of personal humiliation, when travel goes wrong.
With a unique voice, one of the best-travelled apes in history offers you a fresh take on the world.
It’s one that just might help you fall back in love with it.
- GenresTravel
516 pages, Paperback
Published September 10, 2023
42 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Michael Mackay Richards
6 books6 followersMICHAEL MACKAY RICHARDS is an author, as well as a global economic and political research analyst from London, UK. Prior to this, he completed undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Politics and International Relations from the University of Bristol in England. His passion for global affairs extends to travel. He’s visited 155 out of the world’s 195 countries according to the UN definition, documenting his travels and views on his website www.thetravellingape.com. Michael is also a certified meditation instructor with the British School of Meditation, with several thousand hours of meditation practice and several silent meditation retreats under his belt. He also wrote this blurb about himself in the third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 13, 2023
"The Travelling Ape" by Michael Mackay Richards is a literary journey that transcends conventional travel narratives, offering readers a unique and multifaceted exploration of the world. With a distinctive blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful observations, Richards takes us on a global adventure that goes beyond the surface, delving into both individual travel experiences and the broader trends shaping our interconnected world.
At its core, "The Travelling Ape" is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the shared experiences that unite us across borders. Richards skillfully weaves his personal tales of exploration with a broader examination of global dynamics, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The book's strength lies in its witty and engaging narrative style. Richards has a knack for infusing humor into his storytelling, making even the most complex geopolitical subjects accessible and enjoyable. From the outset, the author's voice is relatable and inviting, creating a connection with the reader that lasts throughout the journey.
One of the standout features of "The Travelling Ape" is the way Richards intertwines personal anecdotes with reflections on wider global trends. Each chapter becomes a miniature expedition, not only to a physical location but also into the cultural, political, and social fabric of that place. This approach elevates the book beyond a mere travelogue, turning it into a comprehensive exploration of the complexities that define our world.
As the reader ventures alongside Richards to places like North Korea, Turkmenistan, and Iraq, there's a sense of shared discovery. The author's experiences become a lens through which readers can vicariously explore the richness and diversity of these destinations. Whether it's navigating the enigmatic streets of Pyongyang or unraveling the mysteries of ancient Turkmenistan, Richards' storytelling captivates and educates in equal measure.
The book's title, "The Travelling Ape," not only reflects the author's extensive travels but also serves as a metaphor for the shared human experience. Richards believes, as the title suggests, that we are all part of a wandering species seeking understanding and connection. This overarching theme provides a unifying thread, reminding readers of the fundamental similarities that bind us as a global community.
Richards' keen observations and cultural insights add depth to the narrative, allowing readers to engage with the world on a more profound level. The author doesn't shy away from addressing challenging topics, tackling issues like geopolitical tensions and the human condition with a nuanced and balanced perspective. This approach provides readers with a holistic view of the places visited, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our world.
One of the book's triumphs is its ability to evoke a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. Richards' vivid descriptions transport readers to each destination, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond words on a page. The narrative not only inspires a desire to travel but also encourages readers to approach their own journeys with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
The book's structure, divided into four parts—Travel, Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness—provides a thematic organization that adds coherence to the diverse range of experiences shared. Each section serves as a lens through which the author explores different facets of the human experience, offering a well-rounded and comprehensive perspective.
As a reader, I found myself not only entertained but also intellectually stimulated. The frequent interjections of humor and the author's witty asides contribute to the book's accessibility, making it an engaging read for a wide audience. While some may find the humor slightly irreverent or frequent, I believe it adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, reflecting the author's genuine voice.
"The Travelling Ape" is a book that lingers in the reader's mind, prompting reflection on the nature of humanity and the interconnectedness of our global community. It challenges preconceptions, encourages empathy, and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for the world we inhabit.
In conclusion, "The Travelling Ape" is not just a travel memoir; it's a literary exploration that transcends the boundaries of genre. Michael Mackay Richards has crafted a masterpiece that combines humor, insight, and adventure, leaving an indelible mark on readers who embark on this captivating journey. It's a book that invites us to see the world through a different lens and, in doing so, inspires a renewed appreciation for the shared human experience.
At its core, "The Travelling Ape" is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the shared experiences that unite us across borders. Richards skillfully weaves his personal tales of exploration with a broader examination of global dynamics, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The book's strength lies in its witty and engaging narrative style. Richards has a knack for infusing humor into his storytelling, making even the most complex geopolitical subjects accessible and enjoyable. From the outset, the author's voice is relatable and inviting, creating a connection with the reader that lasts throughout the journey.
One of the standout features of "The Travelling Ape" is the way Richards intertwines personal anecdotes with reflections on wider global trends. Each chapter becomes a miniature expedition, not only to a physical location but also into the cultural, political, and social fabric of that place. This approach elevates the book beyond a mere travelogue, turning it into a comprehensive exploration of the complexities that define our world.
As the reader ventures alongside Richards to places like North Korea, Turkmenistan, and Iraq, there's a sense of shared discovery. The author's experiences become a lens through which readers can vicariously explore the richness and diversity of these destinations. Whether it's navigating the enigmatic streets of Pyongyang or unraveling the mysteries of ancient Turkmenistan, Richards' storytelling captivates and educates in equal measure.
The book's title, "The Travelling Ape," not only reflects the author's extensive travels but also serves as a metaphor for the shared human experience. Richards believes, as the title suggests, that we are all part of a wandering species seeking understanding and connection. This overarching theme provides a unifying thread, reminding readers of the fundamental similarities that bind us as a global community.
Richards' keen observations and cultural insights add depth to the narrative, allowing readers to engage with the world on a more profound level. The author doesn't shy away from addressing challenging topics, tackling issues like geopolitical tensions and the human condition with a nuanced and balanced perspective. This approach provides readers with a holistic view of the places visited, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our world.
One of the book's triumphs is its ability to evoke a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. Richards' vivid descriptions transport readers to each destination, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond words on a page. The narrative not only inspires a desire to travel but also encourages readers to approach their own journeys with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
The book's structure, divided into four parts—Travel, Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness—provides a thematic organization that adds coherence to the diverse range of experiences shared. Each section serves as a lens through which the author explores different facets of the human experience, offering a well-rounded and comprehensive perspective.
As a reader, I found myself not only entertained but also intellectually stimulated. The frequent interjections of humor and the author's witty asides contribute to the book's accessibility, making it an engaging read for a wide audience. While some may find the humor slightly irreverent or frequent, I believe it adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, reflecting the author's genuine voice.
"The Travelling Ape" is a book that lingers in the reader's mind, prompting reflection on the nature of humanity and the interconnectedness of our global community. It challenges preconceptions, encourages empathy, and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for the world we inhabit.
In conclusion, "The Travelling Ape" is not just a travel memoir; it's a literary exploration that transcends the boundaries of genre. Michael Mackay Richards has crafted a masterpiece that combines humor, insight, and adventure, leaving an indelible mark on readers who embark on this captivating journey. It's a book that invites us to see the world through a different lens and, in doing so, inspires a renewed appreciation for the shared human experience.
November 16, 2023
Note: The author contacted and provided me with the book for this review, but all opinions stated are my own honest thoughts.
Summary:
The Traveling Ape is an autobiographical account of the Michael Richards’ adventures across 150 countries. The book is split into four parts: Travel: Expand Your Horizons and Your Mind, Humanity: There’s More to Celebrate than Lament, Geopolitics: The Drama Will Never End and Happiness: Wealth is a Poor Predictor of Happiness. It has risen to be on the Amazon bestselling list. However, this summary does not do the book justice. The author has a writing style that sucks you in and engages you from the very first page.
The Specifics of the Edition:
I read the standard paperback, but it is also available in both digital and hardcover format, which you can find it in most book shops, as well as on Amazon (I have added the links below). The author kindly personalised and signed my copy!
My thoughts:
To begin this review, I must confess that I was unsure that I would enjoy this book, as I am not well travelled myself, and, especially after reading it, I feel like I am a hermit in comparison as the author has visited 150 countries (some multiple times)! I genuinely thought the book was brilliant without any personal connection or many reference points to the subject matter. The descriptions given are so raw and powerful I found myself being able to imagine the scenes.
The writing style was absolutely brilliant, it was informal and witty, conveying information in an easily digestible/followable way, although this is ‘travel writing’ it is quite unlike any other book or material I’ve been exposed to. What this book did well was tell you the reality of a situation, it didn’t try and tell you how amazing a place was and persuade you to visit. It told you real adventures and the thoughts, feelings and emotions that went with that.
The book opens in the middle of describing an adventure in Ethiopia, visiting the skeleton of ‘Lucy’, one of the oldest surviving fossils we have of Australopithecines. The author immediately draws you in with his thoughts about the experience. I was instantly hooked and remained to be so throughout.
I enjoyed the addition of footnotes and the humorous introduction of the author, as I thought it made him come across as very likeable and as I mentioned it compelled me to keep reading and to keep learning from this experienced traveller. I do think some people may be put off by the frequency of such interjections, but, personally, this was not an issue for me at all; it gave the book character and I felt it gave the writing a ‘true’ feel where the author wasn’t writing what he ‘should’ but what he wanted the reader to really experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the lead up and thought processes the author had (for instance whilst standing on the edge of an active volcano).
Read the rest of my review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
Summary:
The Traveling Ape is an autobiographical account of the Michael Richards’ adventures across 150 countries. The book is split into four parts: Travel: Expand Your Horizons and Your Mind, Humanity: There’s More to Celebrate than Lament, Geopolitics: The Drama Will Never End and Happiness: Wealth is a Poor Predictor of Happiness. It has risen to be on the Amazon bestselling list. However, this summary does not do the book justice. The author has a writing style that sucks you in and engages you from the very first page.
The Specifics of the Edition:
I read the standard paperback, but it is also available in both digital and hardcover format, which you can find it in most book shops, as well as on Amazon (I have added the links below). The author kindly personalised and signed my copy!
My thoughts:
To begin this review, I must confess that I was unsure that I would enjoy this book, as I am not well travelled myself, and, especially after reading it, I feel like I am a hermit in comparison as the author has visited 150 countries (some multiple times)! I genuinely thought the book was brilliant without any personal connection or many reference points to the subject matter. The descriptions given are so raw and powerful I found myself being able to imagine the scenes.
The writing style was absolutely brilliant, it was informal and witty, conveying information in an easily digestible/followable way, although this is ‘travel writing’ it is quite unlike any other book or material I’ve been exposed to. What this book did well was tell you the reality of a situation, it didn’t try and tell you how amazing a place was and persuade you to visit. It told you real adventures and the thoughts, feelings and emotions that went with that.
The book opens in the middle of describing an adventure in Ethiopia, visiting the skeleton of ‘Lucy’, one of the oldest surviving fossils we have of Australopithecines. The author immediately draws you in with his thoughts about the experience. I was instantly hooked and remained to be so throughout.
I enjoyed the addition of footnotes and the humorous introduction of the author, as I thought it made him come across as very likeable and as I mentioned it compelled me to keep reading and to keep learning from this experienced traveller. I do think some people may be put off by the frequency of such interjections, but, personally, this was not an issue for me at all; it gave the book character and I felt it gave the writing a ‘true’ feel where the author wasn’t writing what he ‘should’ but what he wanted the reader to really experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the lead up and thought processes the author had (for instance whilst standing on the edge of an active volcano).
Read the rest of my review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
December 13, 2023
📚 Book Review: "The Travelling Ape" by Michael Mackay Richards 🌍
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉If you're yearning for a journey that spans across countries, cultures, and the core of humanity, this book is an absolute must-read! 🌎
👉Michael Mackay Richards, one of the most well-traveled individuals on Earth, takes you on an extraordinary adventure through the pages of "The Travelling Ape." 🗺️
👉Richards offers a unique perspective, having explored over 150 countries, making him part of the 0.000000001% of people who've ventured to so many corners of the globe. 🌏
👉From the mysterious streets of Pyongyang to serene meditation retreats in India, and even an unexpected roller coaster ride in Iraq, this book leaves no stone unturned on a global odyssey filled with witty anecdotes and sharp insights. 🎢
👉But what sets this book apart is its unwavering optimism and positivity about the world. Amid the media's portrayal of turmoil, Richards offers a refreshing, upbeat take on our planet and fellow humans. 🌟
👉"The Travelling Ape" isn't just a travelogue; it's a profound discussion of geopolitics, economics, and the pursuit of happiness. It's thought-provoking, witty, and thoroughly engaging. 🧠
👉In a world often overshadowed by negativity, this book is a shining beacon of optimism. It's well-written, comprehensive, and an absolute page-turner. Mike's storytelling will take you on a journey you may never physically embark on but can vividly imagine. 📖
👉For anyone with a passion for travel or a desire to better understand the world, this book is a must-read. It's a reminder of the inherent beauty and goodness that our planet holds. 🌟
👉So, if you're looking for inspiration, a fresh perspective, and a reaffirmation of your love for the world, "The Travelling Ape" is your ticket to an exhilarating literary voyage! 🌟📚
👉Get ready to embark on an adventure you won't forget. 🌍💫
#BookReview #TheTravellingApe #MichaelMackayRichards #Travel #Adventure #Inspiration #Optimism #MustRead
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉If you're yearning for a journey that spans across countries, cultures, and the core of humanity, this book is an absolute must-read! 🌎
👉Michael Mackay Richards, one of the most well-traveled individuals on Earth, takes you on an extraordinary adventure through the pages of "The Travelling Ape." 🗺️
👉Richards offers a unique perspective, having explored over 150 countries, making him part of the 0.000000001% of people who've ventured to so many corners of the globe. 🌏
👉From the mysterious streets of Pyongyang to serene meditation retreats in India, and even an unexpected roller coaster ride in Iraq, this book leaves no stone unturned on a global odyssey filled with witty anecdotes and sharp insights. 🎢
👉But what sets this book apart is its unwavering optimism and positivity about the world. Amid the media's portrayal of turmoil, Richards offers a refreshing, upbeat take on our planet and fellow humans. 🌟
👉"The Travelling Ape" isn't just a travelogue; it's a profound discussion of geopolitics, economics, and the pursuit of happiness. It's thought-provoking, witty, and thoroughly engaging. 🧠
👉In a world often overshadowed by negativity, this book is a shining beacon of optimism. It's well-written, comprehensive, and an absolute page-turner. Mike's storytelling will take you on a journey you may never physically embark on but can vividly imagine. 📖
👉For anyone with a passion for travel or a desire to better understand the world, this book is a must-read. It's a reminder of the inherent beauty and goodness that our planet holds. 🌟
👉So, if you're looking for inspiration, a fresh perspective, and a reaffirmation of your love for the world, "The Travelling Ape" is your ticket to an exhilarating literary voyage! 🌟📚
👉Get ready to embark on an adventure you won't forget. 🌍💫
#BookReview #TheTravellingApe #MichaelMackayRichards #Travel #Adventure #Inspiration #Optimism #MustRead
October 30, 2024
This is a fascinating and essential book. As humans we have never before been able to travel our planet with such ease. Yet most of us will only visit a small fraction of the world's countries in our lifetime. Mike's travels have led him to see us as a species with a rare clarity, and we would all do well to explore his journey.
I found this book to be inspiring and entertaining. I loved hearing Mike's insights into places I've never visited but have always wanted to. It is reassuring to know that, as a species, humans are far more alike than we are different. And that, despite what mainstream media has us believe (in order to sell papers and get clicks) most people really are nice and friendly.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more of the world and understand the similarities, contradictions and accomplishments of humans better. It's entertaining and insightful.
*FULL DISCLOSURE* I run the studio which produced the audiobook version of this title. So, I had the pleasure of Mike actually reading his own book to me!
I found this book to be inspiring and entertaining. I loved hearing Mike's insights into places I've never visited but have always wanted to. It is reassuring to know that, as a species, humans are far more alike than we are different. And that, despite what mainstream media has us believe (in order to sell papers and get clicks) most people really are nice and friendly.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more of the world and understand the similarities, contradictions and accomplishments of humans better. It's entertaining and insightful.
*FULL DISCLOSURE* I run the studio which produced the audiobook version of this title. So, I had the pleasure of Mike actually reading his own book to me!
January 29, 2024
"The Travelling Ape" combines amusement, entertainment, and enlightenment. Authored by someone who's been to 80% of the world's countries, the book serves as a unique window into the diverse tapestry of our planet. The book's charm lies not only in its amusement factor but also in its informative depth. Through the Michael Richards's adventures, the reader is treated to a kaleidoscopic view of cultures, landscapes, and the intricacies of geopolitics. The author's firsthand experiences lend authenticity to the storytelling, making it a rich and educational read.
I felt I gained an insight into the human condition and the interconnectedness of our world. In The Travelling Ape, readers not only embark on an amusing adventure but also acquire a broader understanding of our world, making it a must-read for those who seek both amusement and enlightenment between the covers of a single book.
I felt I gained an insight into the human condition and the interconnectedness of our world. In The Travelling Ape, readers not only embark on an amusing adventure but also acquire a broader understanding of our world, making it a must-read for those who seek both amusement and enlightenment between the covers of a single book.
February 15, 2024
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I really enjoyed The Travelling Ape. The author's own travels are fun to read about - especially those in far-flung, lesser known regions of the world - but what I found most impressive is how he brings these experiences together to offer insight into broader themes like diversity, human culture and mental health. I especially enjoyed the section on Happiness.
I think what makes it all work is the tone of the writing. The author comes across as very knowledgable of the places he visits, but also very respectful, making him an informative and very likeable guide. He also strikes a good balance between being positive about our future without seeming idealistic or naive.
Overall, I thought this was a great book and I would strongly recommend to anyone interested in travel, geopolitics and anthropology. It left me wanting to travel more and read more.
I think what makes it all work is the tone of the writing. The author comes across as very knowledgable of the places he visits, but also very respectful, making him an informative and very likeable guide. He also strikes a good balance between being positive about our future without seeming idealistic or naive.
Overall, I thought this was a great book and I would strongly recommend to anyone interested in travel, geopolitics and anthropology. It left me wanting to travel more and read more.
February 7, 2024
"The Travelling Ape" by Michael Richards is not your usual travel read. Richards dishes out amusement, entertainment, and knowledge in this funny book.
He's not just spinning tales; it's all real-life adventures, making the book way more than your typical 'travel hack' stuff. From geopolitics to personal growth, it's a wild ride that hooks you in. Richards' style is witty and thought-provoking, giving you the lowdown on places you probably never thought about.
This book is a gem – entertaining, informative, and a must-read for anyone itching to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Richards nails the balance between humor and deep insights, taking you on journey through the corners of our world you didn't even know existed. I really enjoyed it.
He's not just spinning tales; it's all real-life adventures, making the book way more than your typical 'travel hack' stuff. From geopolitics to personal growth, it's a wild ride that hooks you in. Richards' style is witty and thought-provoking, giving you the lowdown on places you probably never thought about.
This book is a gem – entertaining, informative, and a must-read for anyone itching to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Richards nails the balance between humor and deep insights, taking you on journey through the corners of our world you didn't even know existed. I really enjoyed it.
March 12, 2024
I honestly think everyone should read this book! Michael is a brilliant and insightful writer, as well as an economic and geopolitical risk analyst, so he really knows his stuff. I love the way he effortlessly weaves his fascinating and amusing travel stories into his insights on humanity, economics, democracy, capitalism and happiness. Reading this book has given me a new perspective on what it means to live in the 21st century in a democratic and capitalist society. The author is on a mission to travel to every country in the world and his tales of travelling to North Korea in particular just blow my mind! He also dedicates a whole chapter to China, which is incredibly eye-opening and thought provoking. Truly, one of the most valuable books I've read in a long time.
September 25, 2024
The Travelling Ape: What Travelling (Nearly) Everywhere Taught Me about Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness is an insightful and thought-provoking book that blends personal travel experiences with reflections on global issues. The author shares lessons learned from visiting diverse places, offering a unique perspective on human nature, culture, and the interconnectedness of the world. The book touches on geopolitics, social dynamics, and finding happiness through understanding others. It's a captivating read for anyone curious about how travel shapes our understanding of the world and ourselves.
December 7, 2023
Really loved this book, the author does an amazing job of bringing to life his diverse and unique experiences on the global travel trail, and linking those experiences to key lessons which are both thought provoking and which can have personal utility for the reader. It's well written (you can tell he writes for a living!), intelligent, and very humorous.
If you love to travel or are looking to get inspired for a next trip, this is an amazing book. I took it on a recent trip to Africa and it was a great companion and helped me further appreciate the value in exploring the world :)
If you love to travel or are looking to get inspired for a next trip, this is an amazing book. I took it on a recent trip to Africa and it was a great companion and helped me further appreciate the value in exploring the world :)
February 17, 2024
A really wonderful and timely book.
The covid years made me slightly forget how important travelling is for our own growth in so many ways.
This book is really uplifting, you learn a lot and also laugh too. Mike's style is really refreshing.
The book finishes by bringing together everything he's learnt from travelling and how it can apply to our happiness, this was my favourite bit with loads of useful takeaways.
A great read that made me aspired to put on my shoes and get travelling.
The covid years made me slightly forget how important travelling is for our own growth in so many ways.
This book is really uplifting, you learn a lot and also laugh too. Mike's style is really refreshing.
The book finishes by bringing together everything he's learnt from travelling and how it can apply to our happiness, this was my favourite bit with loads of useful takeaways.
A great read that made me aspired to put on my shoes and get travelling.
March 4, 2024
What a refreshing and insightful perspective on the interconnectedness of humanity and the world around us! Through the lens of the author's adventures, I was taken on a journey that transcends borders and cultures, providing valuable insights into the human experience. With humour and wisdom, the author navigates through geopolitics, cultural nuances, and personal anecdotes, offering readers a rich tapestry of lessons on happiness and understanding. This captivating book is a must-read for anyone seeking to broaden their horizons and gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of our world.
June 7, 2024
Won this book from the author in a competition on Instagram, but I genuinely loved it and would happily have spent the money on it.
So much of it reflects how I feel about the world/travel, especially the idea that people are similar everywhere and mostly decent. And that the world is getting better, despite what the media tells us. There’s also a bit of philosophy, happiness, and a lot of random geopolitical facts which were really interesting.
I don’t read many nonfiction books but this was up my street!
So much of it reflects how I feel about the world/travel, especially the idea that people are similar everywhere and mostly decent. And that the world is getting better, despite what the media tells us. There’s also a bit of philosophy, happiness, and a lot of random geopolitical facts which were really interesting.
I don’t read many nonfiction books but this was up my street!
January 13, 2024
With today's news cycle it can be easy to lose sight of the good in humanity. For those who long for a deeper connection to the world through travel, this book is a must read. The author poetically blends stories from his travels with history, politics and philosophy to get at the heart of what the world can teach us, and he graciously shares these lessons with his readers - no plane ticket needed.
February 5, 2024
The book was well-written and amusing, and I liked the inclusion of anecdotes from places like North Korea and Iraq. The travel section and the section on happiness were my favourites, particularly the author's experience of visiting a silent meditation retreat in India. However, I felt I didn't agree with all the conclusions he came too in the chapters about geopolitics, particularly on capitalism. But overall, it was a nice read.
February 7, 2024
A nice and amusing read. Liked reading about all of the kind of places - Vanuatu, North Korea, Central Asia, etc - that I will never be able to go and see, or can't be bothered too. The book made some interesting arguments about geopolitics which were explained in an accessible way. My fave chapter was the one on happiness at the end, and reading about what a silent retreat in India is like. A really enjoyable read overall.
January 16, 2024
The Travelling Ape goes way beyond your typical 'travel hack' books. It brilliantly shows us the transformative power of travel, while intriguingly connecting geopolitics and personal growth. Mike's storytelling is both amusing and thought-provoking, making this book an absolute delight for any wanderer seeking the true essence of their travel journeys.
Read
February 17, 2024For me, this book was the perfect read whilst recently on holiday. It struck the right balance between being informative and factual yet enjoyable and fun to read. Lots of interesting information and observations within, all designed to shine a light on humankind (good and bad) and to help us all ponder how we can make our time on Earth a little bit more worthwhile. Mark Boehm
November 9, 2023
More than just a travel book. The Travelling Ape takes you through a broad sweep of humanity and across so many of the lesser-known countries of the world. It's also witty and amusing at points, making it a really enjoyable read!
November 9, 2023
A fantastic and amusing exploration of the world through travel. Particularly enjoyed the journeys to places like North Korea, Turkmenistan, and Iraq, all very much off-piste places I'll never have the chance to personally visit. Highly recommend!
November 13, 2023
A hugely entertaining and observational travelogue where the common thread is that human beings are inherently good. We all ultimately aspire to be happy and healthy and loved. Mike travels to the remotest places, villages and communities where he finds that, material aspirations aside, we all want the same out of life.
November 25, 2023
Witty, thought provoking and compelling. In particular, I enjoyed the author’s hilarious sense of humour and his positive outlook on the world around us. I wish I read this book before I went travelling. A must read for anyone interested in travel or geopolitics!
January 4, 2024
I found this book thoroughly enjoyable. There was a lot to learn from the author from remote tribes to interesting titbits about humanity. Despite not being my normal genre I found the author's writing style incredibly engaging. A must-read!
January 5, 2024
A must read for any travel fanatic! I’m compelled to visit some of the lesser-known destinations after reading this book. I have little knowledge of geopolitics, and I found this book to be an informative, humorous, and engaging account of issues in the world today. Well worth a read!
January 7, 2024
The book uses travel as a basis to discuss geopolitics, economics and even happiness. It is an engaging, thought-provoking and witty book which I would recommend to anyone who would like to travel or better understand the world.
January 23, 2024
Entertaining and informative. The author perfectly balances witty anecdotes with the more serious learning outcomes from his extensive travels. The book is very thoughtful and provides an amazing insight into parts of the world that most will never experience.
January 28, 2024
A funny and thoughtful reflection of Mr Richards’ travels through some of the most interesting places on earth. If you want something to spark your curiosity and get you exploring, you’ll love this book
February 7, 2024
I enjoyed the Travelling Ape, particularly the parts on travel itself and humanity at large. The book was funny too. However, the chapter on geopolitics wasn't my favourite - perhaps as it's not a massive interest of mine. I'd say it's worth a read though!
February 27, 2024
An awesome book. Really funny too. Covers a wide sweep of topics and themes, with some cool travel stories from some less-travelled places like Iraq, North Korea, the Pacific Islands, and in Central Asia.
February 27, 2024
I loved this book. Kind of a mix between Tim Marshall, Yuval Harari and Bill Bryson, talking travel but also about wider themes about the world. Was kinda funny too. Would recommend it to anyone interested in travel or learning about the world.
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