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.

When in doubt, resort to animation.

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!

'Nice' means nothing. Is it someone who doesn't swear and shout? I swear and shout. 'Nice' sounds ineffectual.

You can't get a suit of armour and a rubber chicken just like that. You have to plan ahead.

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.

Contrary to what the politicians and religious leaders would like us to believe, the world won't be made safer by creating barriers between people.