Into the UNKNOWN

SIR MICHAEL PALIN on the challenges of visiting troubled but little explored Venezuela

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MICHAEL PALIN IN VENEZUELA

NEW TUESDAY, 9PM, 5 FACTUAL

Sir Michael Palin became an accidental traveller when he accepted a challenge to follow in the footsteps of fictional character Phileas Fogg by going around the world in 80 days for a BBC1 adventure broadcast in 1989.

But while subsequent TV travelogues have taken the actor and comedian to countless destinations across the globe, he had never visited Venezuela before embarking on his latest journey of discovery for 5.

The three-parter, Michael Palin in Venezuela, will see the star explore why the country is considered the most dangerous place in South America, as well as learn the secrets of its spectacular landscape, which takes in stunning beaches, the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest.

Here, Michael, 82, talks us through his trip...

Why did you decide on Venezuela for your latest exploration, Michael?

We're always looking for countries that have lots going for them, and yet nothing seems to be working there; places with potential but also problems. Places where people say, 'Why are you going there?' really spur me on. It's very satisfying to go somewhere where there's a risk - that's part of the excitement!

Venezuela, currently under the rule of controversial president Nicolás Maduro, has been experiencing economic turmoil and high crime rates. What did you learn about the problems being experienced there?