Simon visits Malta, whose economy is booming but is mired in controversy. Then Italy where he learns about the 'Ndrangheta but also turtle conservation. In Albania he is shocked by the culture of vendetta.

On the second leg of his journey Simon explores Cyprus, Lebanon, Israel and Gaza. He goes on patrol with UN peacekeepers, discovers the roots of Christianity and crosses the most heavily fortified borders in the world.

Simon travels to Libya, then heads west along North Africa's Mediterranean coast to Tunisia and finally by ferry to Sicily.