This collection investigates the diverse human experience of exploration and the varied motivations that drive individuals to traverse the globe. Eric Newby, a renowned travel writer known for his wit and observational precision, curates a selection of accounts that span different eras and geographical regions. The book serves as a comprehensive survey of travel literature, utilizing primary source excerpts to illustrate the evolution of the genre from colonial expeditions to modern tourism.

This anthology is regarded as a thoughtful compilation that highlights Newby's deep familiarity with the canon of travel writing. The selection process suggests a focus on both the literary quality of the accounts and the historical significance of the locations described.