Rome was once the focal point for the world's jet set. Now Clive James travels to the eternal city in search of the dolce vita and to acquire some Roman sophistication. During his stay, he meets a socialite prince, Mussolini's son and learns a lesson from a sexologist.

Clive James sets off to visit the city once known as the 'Paris of the east' and discovers a China on the brink of revolution. This is his personal view of a crucial moment in Shanghai's history.

Clive James explores how to succeed in Los Angeles by learning the secret of the film business from Hollywood experts, advisers to the stars and the celebrities themselves.