One of the reviews of this show has so much misplaced hate for one the hosts in it, that I figure I should give my two cents about Departures. First of all, this is an amazing travel show. Three friends traveling around the world and going to the most unexpected places to find history, culture and incredible beauty. Scott, one of the hosts, is the creator behind the show (with Andre the cameraman) and as you expect he is the more serious, well-educated and very interested about the country's culture and history. On the other hand, Justin is an outgoing dude, sometimes silly, not the brightest individual, but also very likable, real and funny. The dude is looking to have a good time everywhere, but you can see he is also enjoying and interested in everything they see, regardless if they have a beer on their hands or not.
Scott's choice of Justin as his travel mate was extremely smart. Not only you can actually see that they are best friends, but their personal characteristics balance each other very well and make this show even more entertaining. Also, throughout all three seasons you can see Justin's amazing growth as he becomes a seasoned traveler, and that shows how much you can learn just from getting out of your comfort zone. That is one of the most remarkable things about the show.
The real star of this show, however, is behind the camera. Andre's award-winning photography is one of the most artistic and beautiful I have ever seen on a show like this. Every fantastic moment of their travels, every person, every place, every view, is captured with perfection and there is no way you would not want to visit some of this places after watching this show. The way every location is put on camera is truly inspirational. Go watch Departures!