Wednesdays 10:00PM ET
Yemen
Seems like every country in the Middle East has its own spin on Islamic fundamentalism, and Yemen's version comes from high in the hills. In addition to the occasional suicide bomb, Yemen's bugs and vermin can cause an impressive assortment of flesh-eating diseases and other biological disturbances. Here are some tips for avoiding them:
Not without a net: The muddy marshlands of Yemen are fertile breeding ground for a race of super-mosquitoes capable of wreaking anatomical havoc that goes way beyond a typical malaria outbreak. Elephantiasis will make your skin swell, thicken and wrinkle in the manner of its namesake. So, in addition to taking anti-malaria drugs and coating yourself in repellant, pack a net that you can drape over your bed at night.
Surgeon General's Warning: Khat, the ubiquitous shrub of Yemen yields a potent juice and caffeine-like buzz when its leaves are chewed. It's a cultural totem in Yemen, enjoyed by men, women and children throughout the country, but its use has been linked to alarming rates of throat and mouth cancer and a few other unpleasant side effects. Sample with care.
Mind the Mines: Landmines planted during the country's 1994 War of Unity are still dotting the breathtaking Yemeni countryside. Seek local advice before starting a hopscotch tournament or setting off on hikes thorough remote regions, especially along the old North/South Yemen border area.
A Fashion Don't: Now is probably not the best time, and Yemen is probably not the best place, to strut your American spirit in a USA decal t-shirt or that stars and stripes bandana you love so much. You might want to think about adopting a Canadian accent, ay?