I think the best way to get to know a country is through the people, who are living in it. I always enjoyed the time living in a country the most. Thats how I learned a lot (about the county as well as about me). For example India taught me very well not to take life too serious... Since its not always possible to visit each country for a couple of months I am very happy to have a chance to get some inside view through couch surfing and also hoping that there is some benefit for the host too.

mh... I like the japanese author Haruki Murakami a lot and also the book "Discovery of Slowness" by Sten Nadolny But there are so many more books outside ....