Comedian Paul Merton sets his sights on discovering the wonders of modern Europe – a continent of unparalleled diversity and the home of many of the globe’s oldest cultures. It is a land of huge contrasts – economically, geographically, religiously and culturally.
Paul begins his journey in the land of his childhood holidays – Ireland. It is a bold and surprising journey that sees him wade across bog land to feed boiled eggs to monkeys, dance salsa in a town full of Brazillians, and ultimately show a side of Ireland that is rarely seen.
In Germany, Paul decides he deserves a rest and heads to an alpine spa where beer is one of the treatments. He discovers the lighter side to the German personality in Bavaria (with more beer) and visits the former East Germany.
The passion and emotion of Italy beckons and Paul finds himself in Naples, home to one of the most notorious mafia organisations, the Camorra. In Pietrasanta Paul discovers a social revolution is underway – the men of the house have discovered the joys of housework; and in Florence, Paul meets Albion – an eccentric fashion designer in his 80s.
Then it’s on to Paris. Olivier, his guide, takes him on a tour that sees Paul travel from the back streets of Paris to the Champagne-fuelled events of the rich and finds out how the region of Champagne itself is being re-drawn.
Paul decides to finish his European tour in Spain, but soon discovers more than sun and sangria. In Madrid he finds his guide, Arantza, during the middle of a screaming fight with one of her lovers; meets an 84-year-old man building his own cathedral and travels to Catalonia, where he finds out just how different Catalonians really are.
Paul Merton in Europe is unlike any other travel programme about the continent. Expect Paul Merton’s comedic take on the curious and the down right hysterical side of European life.
Tuesdays 7:30pm, from March 16
