Top 15 Travel Books That Will Ignite Your Wanderlust
Here are the top 15 travel books that will ignite your wanderlust
1. In a Sunburned Country By Bill Bryson
- Description: Bill Bryson is known for writing travel books that are both humorous and insightful. "In a Sunburned Country" is a delightful exploration of Australia, written at a time when the world was still getting to know this vast and unique island nation. Bryson's witty observations and quirky encounters with Australia's people, places, and wildlife make this book a hilarious and engaging read. It's a testament to the author's knack for combining humor and travel storytelling.
2. Dave Barry Does Japan
- Description: Dave Barry may be considered old-school in the realm of travel books, but his humor and wit are timeless. "Dave Barry Does Japan" is a side-splitting account of his adventures in Japan, where he navigates the country's rich traditions with a comedic lens. From karaoke bars and geisha encounters to kabuki theatre and perplexing comedy clubs, Barry's humorous take on Japan's culture and quirks is a hilarious and entertaining read.
3. Love Africa By Jeffrey Gettleman
- Description: "Love Africa" tells the story of Jeffrey Gettleman, the East Africa bureau chief for The New York Times. It begins with his initial volunteer trip to Africa, where he falls in love with the continent. However, he faces a dilemma as he's repeatedly called back to the United States by his other love, his girlfriend Courtenay, a criminal defense lawyer. The memoir follows Gettleman's journey as he balances his journalism career, his deep affection for Africa, and his relationship with Courtenay. "Love Africa" captures the profound impact Africa can have on one's heart and the complexities of pursuing one's passions while nurturing love.
4. The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho
- Description: "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is a timeless classic that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery. The story revolves around Santiago, a shepherd boy who embarks on a quest to find his true purpose in life. After selling his flock and traveling to Tangier, Santiago faces challenges and encounters a series of characters who impart valuable life lessons. This novel is a reflection on faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's dreams. It invites readers to contemplate their own life journeys and aspirations.
These travel books offer a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, making them ideal companions for armchair travelers and wanderlust seekers alike. Each book presents a unique blend of adventure, humor, insight, and inspiration, ensuring that readers will be transported to new worlds and inspired to explore the globe themselves.Certainly, let's continue with the next set of travel books:
5. Cheryl Strayed's Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
- Description: "Wild" is a memoir by Cheryl Strayed, recounting her solo journey on the Pacific Crest Trail, which spans over a thousand miles from California to Washington. This incredible adventure was a way for Strayed to heal and find herself after personal tragedies and setbacks. Her honest and emotional narrative takes readers through the challenging terrain of the trail, her encounters with fellow hikers, and the introspective moments that led to self-discovery.
6. Bill Bryson's A Walk in the Woods
- Description: Bill Bryson makes a return on this list with "A Walk in the Woods." In this book, he humorously chronicles his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail, one of the world's longest stretches of continuous pathway. Along with his friend Stephen Katz, Bryson embarks on this adventure filled with humorous anecdotes, encounters with wildlife, and reflections on the beauty and challenges of the trail.
7. Into the Wild By Jon Krakauer
- Description: Jon Krakauer's "Into the Wild" tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who left behind his conventional life and ventured into the Alaskan wilderness. His journey of self-discovery and exploration ultimately leads to tragedy. Krakauer explores McCandless's motivations and decisions, shedding light on the allure and dangers of the wilderness.
8. The Art of Travel By Alain de Botton
- Description: Alain de Botton's "The Art of Travel" is a philosophical exploration of the travel experience. Through a blend of literature, art, and personal anecdotes, de Botton delves into the motivations behind our desire to travel and the way it influences our lives. This book offers a reflective and thought-provoking perspective on the transformative power of travel.
9. Tracks By Robyn Davidson
- Description: "Tracks" is the true story of Robyn Davidson, an Australian woman who embarked on an epic journey across the Australian desert. Davidson's trek covered over 1,700 miles, and she did it accompanied by only four camels and her faithful dog. Her remarkable and often solitary adventure through the vast, unforgiving landscape of the Outback is an inspiring tale of determination and self-discovery.
10. Rolf Potts's Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel
- Description: Rolf Potts' "Vagabonding" is a guide for those who dream of long-term travel. Potts explores the idea of taking extended journeys around the world, emphasizing the value of experiences over possessions. Through practical advice and inspiring stories, he encourages readers to embrace the spirit of adventure and make their travel dreams a reality.
11. The Road to Oxiana By Robert Byron
- Description: "The Road to Oxiana" is a classic travelogue by Robert Byron, chronicling his journey through the Middle East and Central Asia in the 1930s. Byron's eloquent prose captures the mystique and beauty of the regions he visited, from Persia (modern-day Iran) to Afghanistan. His vivid descriptions and historical insights make this a timeless travel classic.
12. Eat, Pray, Love By Elizabeth Gilbert
- Description: Elizabeth Gilbert's memoir "Eat, Pray, Love" takes readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Following a painful divorce, Gilbert embarks on a year-long adventure that leads her to Italy (for pleasure and food), India (for spiritual growth), and Bali (for love). Her candid and heartfelt narrative explores the pursuit of happiness and the healing power of travel.
13. The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon By David Grann
- Description: "The Lost City of Z" by David Grann is a riveting exploration of the Amazon rainforest and the mysterious disappearance of British explorer Percy Fawcett. Fawcett's obsession with finding a legendary ancient city, which he called "Z," led him on multiple perilous expeditions into the Amazon. Grann retraces Fawcett's steps and delves into the allure and dangers of the jungle.
14. Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time By Mark Adams
- Description: Mark Adams' "Turn Right at Machu Picchu" combines history, adventure, and humor as he retraces the steps of Hiram Bingham III, the American explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911. Adams' journey takes him through the rugged terrain of the Andes, where he encounters local guides and archaeologists, providing readers with a fresh perspective on this iconic Inca site.
15. The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World By Eric Weiner
- Description: Eric Weiner's "The Geography of Bliss" is a quest to find the happiest places on Earth. Weiner travels to countries like Iceland, Bhutan, and Switzerland, exploring what factors contribute to the happiness of their residents. With humor and insight, he delves into the cultural and personal aspects of happiness, offering readers a delightful and thought-provoking journey.