"The spectacular success of Mike Todd's super-epic 'Around The World In Eighty Days' has made a good many people associate the phrase 'Around The World' with (a) Mr. Todd's movie or (b) the hit tune derived from Victor Young's enchanting score (which, incidentally, Mr. Crosby tellingly encores in this album).

"For those who 'didn't see the picture' or 'didn't read the book' the phrase rightfully belongs to a Mr. Jules Verne, whose novel 'Around The World In Eighty Days' was not only a good idea for a movie, but suggests a marvelous idea for a record album. A musical grand tour...and what better guide than Bing! For Bing belongs to the world. He is internationally beloved. An ambassador without portfolio, he has proved to be one of America's best emissaries of good-will. South of the Border he is known as 'El Bingo;' in Germany he is hailed as 'Der Bingle;' in France they call him 'Le Bing;' and so on.

"In this vocal world tour, Bing manages to hit some of the ports-of-call that linger lovingly in one's memory. From the Gaelic nostalgia of Galway Bay to the Gallic testimonial, I Love Paris, we have a parade of the world's enchanting tunes. Shanghai; Bali Hai and Tobermory Bay are a few more beautifully sung, memorable musical ports-of-call. It is no accident that, like many another world-weary traveler, Bing returns with exuberance to good old U.S.A. terra (not so) firma in the rousing Mississippi Mud.

"This album is another musical example of Bing's seemingly infinite variety. Seasons come and seasons go, but Crosby goes on forever...'as refreshing as Spring and as popular as popcorn.' Sophisticated world figure that he is, he retains a quality which is unobstrusively but unshakably American. If, in hearing these songs of all nations, anyone objects to his accent, we suggest that all complaints be delivered to the tradesmen's entrance to the United Nations. Bon Voyage!"

Decca Records