Watch Around the World in 80 Ways

Around the World in 80 Ways is a travel-adventure reality show that premiered on the History channel in 2011, featuring the charismatic Rob Mariano, also known as "Boston Rob." In each episode, Rob and a companion travelled around the world using different modes of transportation to get from one location to the next. The premise of the show is inspired by the famous novel "Around the World in 80 Days" by Jules Verne, and like the book, Rob and his companion had to complete their journey in 80 days. However, they were allowed to use any mode of transportation, as long as it was not conventional. This means that they could not ride in a taxi or drive their own car, but they could use a bike or a hot air balloon, for example.

The show was split into eight episodes, each corresponding to a section of their journey. The sections were divided by regions: North America, South America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania. During their travels, Rob and his companion visited numerous cities, encountered different cultures, and faced unexpected challenges.

One of the key elements of the show was the competition between Rob and his companion. In each episode, they had to agree on a mode of transportation for their next leg of the journey. They would both pitch their ideas, and the other person would have the power to veto. The goal was to choose the most efficient and exciting way to travel while also considering the budget and the time constraints. At the end of each episode, they would compare the amount of money spent and the time taken to complete the leg.

Another aspect of the show was the historical context provided by Rob. He would often talk about the importance of the locations they were visiting, both in terms of their natural beauty and their historical significance. For example, when they were in Egypt, Rob would explain the significance of the pyramids and the Sphinx, or when they were in India, he talked about the country's rich history and cultural diversity.

The show also included a range of guests, including local experts, travel bloggers, and celebrities. They would provide their insights on the different modes of transport and the various destinations. Some of the guests included Andrew Zimmerman, Don Wildman, and Dennis Anderson.

During their travels, Rob and his companion encountered many obstacles, both physical and cultural. For example, they had to contend with extreme weather conditions in Oceania, navigate through treacherous roads in South America, and deal with language barriers in East Asia. However, they were always up for the challenge and found creative ways to overcome any obstacles that came their way.

Another notable aspect of the show was its high production value. The episodes were shot in high-definition and included stunning aerial shots of the different landscapes they passed through. The cinematography was impressive and helped to capture the beauty of the destinations. The show also included an original score, which added to the epic and adventurous feel of the series.

In summary, Around the World in 80 Ways is an exciting and educational travel-adventure series that provides a unique perspective on the world. With its combination of historical context, competition, and unexpected challenges, this show is sure to keep viewers engaged and entertained.