Globe-trotting Michael Palin has been from Pole to Pole and Around the World in 80 Days, taking the worst that third-world transport can throw at him. So why does travelling in Britain make him quail, asks Ros Coward

Michael Palin is back home during a brief pause in filming his latest journey. He’s been in the Sahara and loved it. “I’m visiting countries I didn’t know existed. The cultures are fascinating and I’ve met great characters.” And, of course, for the man who has become the nation’s best-loved intrepid traveller, he especially enjoys the journeys. “I made one amazing train journey to Dakkar. The train was 10 hours late, it took forever but it was incredible. I met up with a fantastic woman and discussed Muslim attitudes to sex.”

Full article: http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/jun/14/greenpolitics.transport