My encounter with Michael Palin...

Once, many years ago, I was in a bookstore in NYC...and whom do I spy in the next row over, but Michael Palin of Monty Python fame, and one of my personal idols... I was raised a gentleman, and I firmly believe that everyone deserves their personal space, and I tell myself--especially in NYC--that if I ever see anyone famous, don't act like an asshole or a "fan". Still--this *is* Michael Palin... So: as it happens, he's near the European history section. So I just saunter next to him, smile, and say: "I think the books on the Battle of Trafalgar are right down this aisle"...and blessedly, he got it immediately and laughed out loud. I nodded, he nodded back, and I passed on...that was really a cool moment...

I actually have a huge crush on him! And his passion is travel, same as mine!

:thumbsup:

especially Pole To Pole and Full Circle. I hope he does more.

Sometime in the late 90s I went to NYC and it was a hot summer. I had to turn in my rental car in Greenwich illage make my way to my hotel (which the one Dylan stayed in "Washington Square Hotel," I think). I have four huge bags over my shoulders and in my hands because I have to carry all my stuff in one trip and I think I have a jacket on, too. It is very uncomfortable and I'm sweating and huffing and puffing down the sidewalk. Coming the opposite way down the sidewalk is Eric Idle and some friend of his. As they approach Eric gives me a look like, well, like I work for the Ministry of Silly Walks. I give him a sheepish "Yeah, I know this looks crazy" grin, and we passed on...

I doubt I would've been so cool. I probably would've asked him, "What makes you think the Battle of Trafalgar was fought near Cudworth?" and hoped like hell he gave me the Gumby response.

Or at least laughed. :blush: