This memoir truly shines when Mark Twain embraces his playful and witty side, which fortunately permeates most of the book. While some of the lengthier descriptions can be skipped, the narrative is appealing - it takes us back to the intriguing period of 1867, a time preceding the rapid expansion of European colonialism in the late 19th century.

Twain's keen observations highlight the existence of cultural remnants predating colonial influences, such as the intriguing revelation that Christians were not permitted inside the homes of Muslims in Tangiers. Moreover, during this era, the United States had a minimal presence in the Eastern Hemisphere, making the pleasure ship's passengers de facto ambassadors for their nation—an intriguing aspect that Twain expertly brings to light, particularly during their encounter with the Tsar!