People are still crazy about Python after twenty-five years, which I find hard to believe.

I have been unusually blessed in that I've been allowed to pursue two strands of a career that both delight me and seem to please the public.

If I am seen as successful, it's all the more reason not to change - not to lose track of friends, not to be driven everywhere, not to go and get away from the world. That, to me, is real success: enjoying what you do, but being the same person.

There is barely a country in the world where you will be completely safe.

Now, what sort of person would write a scene where a young man stumbles upon a castle full only of beautiful young women? Answer: ME!

I've never particularly liked travelling with large groups or being told where to go by somebody else. I prefer to find out for myself.

It's not an easy option. The essence of travel is letting go of habit and prejudice and relishing the unfamiliar. Food you've never eaten before, a language you've never spoken before, religion that mystifies, customs that confuse, politics that perplex, all question everyday assumptions about how you live your life.