A fun armchair travel book by the former Monty Python star who is a funny, warm and humane travel writer. ( )

My first book by this wonderful travel author. How has he eluded me for so long? Michael Palin is that perfect mix of an excellent observer of all that is discordant and wise and genuine combined with a fearless desire to visit places others fear to trod. Happy to have discovered this new-to-me author. ( )

This a book that details Palin's trip through the Sahara. There is a BBC show by the same name. This book gives a daily account of this trip, places Palin went and the people he met on his journey. This book gives a little insight on the region and the difficulties that the region faces. ( )

You probably would have guessed by now that I really enjoy reading Michael Palin’s travel books. That would be correct, I find them a delightful way to reminisce after watching the accompanying TV series as they give a lot more insight and background.

Did you know that Sahara was filmed in two parts? Or that 9/11 occurred while they were in the middle of the Sahara and didn’t see any footage for days? How many times did the crew get food poisoning?

You’ll find all this and more in Palin’s meticulous (but never boring) travel diaries. Covering the trip across the Sahara in a variety of means and meeting a number of people, it’s a fascinating armchair ride. His language paints a very detailed picture in your mind.

I didn’t enjoy this as much as Around the World in Eighty Days but that’s probably because I’m not as interested in Africa. But if you’re an Africa fan, you’ll love this. ( )

Distance-wise, this is oe of Palin's smaller undertakings, yet the harsh climate offers other challenges. Armed with his usual good humour and curious knack for finding the funny side of every situation, Palin embarks on his fifth journey. ( )