Following the hugely popular and successful Around the World in 80 Days and Pole to Pole, Michael Palin set off to meet another challenge: an anti-clockwise circumnavigation of the world's largest ocean, the Pacific.

Eighteen countries border the vast expanse of sea that is the Pacific. Palin travelled through them by air, train, boat, car, and on foot, exploring some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. As he moved through different countries he met the wonderfully diverse communities that make up their populations, many of whom lead far from ordinary lives.

Whether he's talking to head-hunters in Borneo or eating maggots in Mexico, Palin recounts his adventures in a vivid and lively style that brilliantly evokes the full colour and richness of the Pacific Rim.