Indeed, the trouble with modern travel writing is not simply the result of lazy writers, compromised editors and dastardly corporations: It is the cold demographic spawn of magazine consumers, who — in greater numbers than not — happily buy into the illusion of «on - time departures, courteous flunkies, sugar - white beaches, fascinating cities, charming locals, first - class hotels,
golden days, purple nights, and «an exotic blend of the ancient and the modern.