The hardest part is deciding that you want to go to North Korea and then convincing your family and friends that you aren't crazy.

Like most travelers to North Korea, my journey started in Beijing where I picked up my tourist visa card.

I didn't really expect to go to the DPRK without being forced to participate in their rituals. When in Rome, do as the Romans do right?

I got up at 6AM to catch breakfast at 6:30AM so we can depart by 6:45AM. Most of the tourists were still asleep so the hotel restaurant with the breakfast buffet was empty.

As much as I enjoy basking in the fictitious glories of communism, I really miss freedom and having personal space. It's definitely been an angsty trip for me.