The Amazing Allure of “The Amazing Race”

By on Nov 29, 2009 in Raves | 1 comment

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Title screen for "The Amazing Race"

Lately I’ve really gotten into The Amazing Race. Add it to the elite list of reality shows I find respectable. I have to say, I’m seduced by the globe-hopping adventure aspect. (Maybe it speaks to my love for Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?) I mean, who wouldn’t want an all-expenses-paid whirlwind tour around the globe? Sure, participants don’t exactly get a chance to sight-see. But what is sacrificed in the quality of their tour stops is compensated by the quantity. Already this season, participants have been to Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Dubai, Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Prague. And at each stop, the participants—and we, the viewers—learn a bit about the region’s culture, history, and geography. (Hey, sounds a bit like Carmen Sandiego!) What else is fulfilling about The Amazing Race is that the competition (usually) a bonding experience for the teams—by the end, at least. During the race, yelling, arguing, bickering are par for the course. But by the end, the couples or friends or relatives are usually much tighter than they were before crossing the starting line. So, with exotic locales, enjoyable challenges, and tearjerking moments, what’s not to love? I’m only sorry I’m getting onboard now, during the 15th season. But if the show remains as enlightening as it is entertaining, here’s to another 15 races.