I loved doing the research for my book. I think my favorite spot to learn about was the Gelen Mines in Scotland. The pictures of the area were beautiful. I find it amazing how much new knowledge I gained from doing the research for The Tower. I also enjoyed the cultural aspect of Kathmandu. The city has six large casino's located in hotels. I am sure those casinos bring in money for the government and the owners.
Tulsa, I knew about because I lived there many years ago. Since I am from Oklahoma I visited often. Tulsa is a nice city, and it is well laid out.
I also enjoyed finding out about the South American island. I used the name and changed everything else I mentioned in the book.
Even with fiction writing, you have to know a little bit about what you are writing. I don't think you could make it realistic if you didn't. If your writing science fiction you know from the beginning that it is not real, the writer has to make it seem real.
That's my two cents on research for the day.
I have got to get a library card!