Around the World in 80 Trades

Around the World in 80 Trades is an adventurous, insightful, and unique reality television series that aired on Channel 4 in 2009. Created under the theme of international business and commerce, the show portrays the engaging journey of a man who dares to venture into the world of trading on a worldwide scale, defying the norms of current world economics.

The main protagonist of the show is Conor Woodman, a former city worker turned international trader. Bored with his well-settled life in the corporate world, Conor had always dreamt of exploring the world to know the intricacies of international trade. The program sprouts from the daring ambition of this thoughtful wanderer to understand 'global economics' through a direct, hands-on experience.

Venturing into more than 16 countries, with money as his only guide, Conor walked on the path of thousands of tradesmen throughout history to get a first-hand experience of traditional business customs. His journey started with £25,000 from the sale of his flat, and the aspiration to use this money with insightful business acumen. His small-scale trades varied greatly, from selling tequila in Mexico, jade in China, and even trading camels in Sudan.

Over the course of eight episodes, each detailing his experiences in various nations, Conor tested and moulded his efforts to grasp the fine intricacies of business in different societies. The show does more than documenting his trading ventures; it takes viewers into the depths of local cultures, the vibrancy of their markets, the people, their attitudes towards business, and above all, their life, which is entwined with these trades.

Around the World in 80 Trades does not step back from portraying the realities of the world of commerce – it doesn't always follow the 'demand-supply' rule. Conor faces multiple setbacks and failures, some agreements gone sour, and his money lost in not-so-successful trades. The strengths of the show are in portraying each loss as a learning experience, turning such misfortunes into stepping stones towards larger understandings about international commerce.

In stark contrast to the world of share markets, virtual transactions, and digital banking is the world of barter trade, haggling, and face-to-face oriented business. But does this form of traditional business stand its ground faced with the colossal, rapid growth of online trading markets? Conor, through his experiences, emphasizes that perhaps these century-old business practices hold more value, charm, and personality than the impersonal and sterile world of digitized trade.

There’s palpable excitement at watching a trading adventure unfolding in real-time, where the challenges and rewards happen in a tangible, suspenseful manner. Apart from the allure of international trade, the viewers are also treated with stunning visuals of vibrant marketplaces, alleyways buzzing with bargainers, food stalls brimming with local cuisines, and beyond these, the soul of the cities where the spirit of trade still thrives.

Conor Woodman’s role as a host is exuberant, magnetic, and deeply invested, serving the show's narrative effectively. He is not merely a participant observer; he is fully engaged in the process, presenting every aspect of his experiences, from the exhilarations of a successful trade to the disappointments of a failed one, with candid honesty and enthusiasm.

Around the World in 80 Trades ventures into both known and unknown terrains to dispel myths, break stereotypes, and shed light on the realities of international trading. It is an entertaining, informative and insightful show that offers viewers the unique opportunity to explore the world through the lens of trade.

By juxtaposing the complexities of the commerce traditions across the globe, Channel 4 not only provides viewers with a unique travelogue but also explores social anthropology, economics, and business negotiation. This is not just a show about trading, but also about resilience, the understanding of cultures, adaptation, and the endeavour to step out of one's comfort zone to explore and connect with the world.

In essence, Around the World in 80 Trades is an exciting chronicle of a brave journey, a tribute to the spirit of world commerce, and a testament to human courage and adaptability. It successfully manages to blend the thrill of a travel show with the suspense of a trading venture, creating an unforgettable viewing experience.