It's been quite awhile since I shared something "binge-worthy" with you all. Right now, it's that venerable series The Amazing Race, Which has captured the attention of my eyeballs and won't let go.

Originally, I'd seen just a few of the early seasons, but decided to start at season 1, since Amazon Prime has the first 20 seasons available, and you can also watch the show on cbs.com. The series will return after shutting down production in 2020 due to Covid-19, with The Amazing Race season 33, set to air early next year.

Up to a dozen teams of two race around the world, completing tasks at various stages. There is a pit stop at the end, and the last team to arrive is usually eliminated unless it's a non-elimination round. Some of the tasks can be wild, such as eating a plate full of moving tentacles in China, or climbing a steep cliff face in Thailand. The variety of things to do, is endless.



Almost every season there is a team of blonds who claim they aren't dumb, which ends up being tested as they progress through the episodes. There have also been some memorable villains, including the unforgettable "Team Guido" who would stab you in the back as soon as look at you. In this game, you've gotta watch your back at all times.

The importance of taxis cannot be overestimated. Smart teams will arrange for an English speaking driver that knows the area, at the hotel the day before they need them. For those that don't, it's the luck of the draw, in hoping you get a competent driver. There have been times where the million-dollar-winner has been decided by who got the better taxi driver in the final leg of the race.

The choice of airlines is also important, and making the wrong one can have devastating consequences. I'll never forget the all-girl team who broke away from the pack, and took a chance on getting a faster flight at a different airport. After a long drive to get there, they found out there were no flights to the final pit stop from there, and had to take a long drive back which cost them the win. A simple phone call in advance, would have won the day for them.

I'm currently on season 19, and loving every minute of it. Most winners of the million bucks, come from teams with a positive mindset, proving that nice guys (and gals) don't have to finish last. I look forward to each new episode so I can root for the winner of The Amazing Race.