Don’t Even Go There Peter Greenberg!

I watch the Today Show on NBC every morning as I get ready for school. I love hearing about the news, latest trends, and, particularly, what new books to read. However, this week I was sorely disappointed.

On Tuesday, November 11, they featured a new book “DON’T GO THERE!” by NBC’s Today show travel editor Peter Greenberg. This book specifies where not to go, when not to go, and why you never should go.

I thought this was the LAMEST attempt to make money and market NBC’s travel editor. We are constantly hearing negative things about our nation’s economy, housing markets, health care, etc. The last thing we need is to hear about the worst places in the world to visit. I whole-heartedly believe that no matter where you go, you can enjoy the experience: You may not enjoy it in the moment, but looking back it will be a cherished memory. Click here to see the segment yourself.

I feel horrible for all of communities, attractions and destinations that have been demoralized from this book. For example, Greenberg says about Ashland, Virginia:

“Unless you can chart the entire universe and pinpoint Ashland, this city’s claim to be the ‘Center of the Universe’ has its flaws. And if it’s true, then God has a wicked sense of humor indeed.”

See what one resident of Virginia had to say in response:

“I don't know what [Peter Greenberg] has against Ashland, but to me this town is a model for the type of place in which we may have to live in the future. It is small, and people can get what they need by walking or biking. It has a railroad running through town, so Ashlanders have a good means of getting supplies and can get to other places without having to drive their cars. It even has Randolph-Macon College, which means it has the places and activities, for example, coffeehouses, performing arts, that a college town would have. With oil running out, to me Ashland is better prepared for the future than most other places in the US. To me if you are traveling along I-95, this is a must place to visit. Instead of making a snide God-referencing remark, Mr. Greenberg should instead visit this town and see for himself what it is really like.”

Click here for more reviews and responses.

So what do you think--Is his book a waste of time and money, or do you think people are interested in so-called ‘horrible’ places around the globe?

We need to focus on the good that is all around us. Let’s focus on the positive, humorous, unusual and crazy places all over the world! Send us your favorite places and help us spread the word about the good in each state, nation and continent!