Discover the world from the comfort of your armchair! Explore our curated list of the 16 best travel books to read, transporting you to exotic destinations and captivating adventures. From memoirs to classics, embark on a literary journey with these captivating tales. Start your adventure with our top picks today!
As an avid traveller, I have always found solace and inspiration in the pages of a good travel book. Through vivid descriptions and captivating narratives, these literary works take us on a journey to far-off lands, allowing us to experience the wonders of the world from the comfort of our own homes. In this article, I will introduce you to the 20 best travel books of all time, which are sure to ignite your wanderlust and transport you to new and exciting places.
Top 10 Travel Books of All Time
PHOTO: PIXABAY
“Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer
This gripping true story follows Christopher McCandless as he abandons his comfortable life and embarks on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer’s masterful storytelling skillfully captures the allure of nature and the complexities of human existence.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
A timeless tale of self-discovery, “The Alchemist” follows Santiago, a young shepherd, as he sets out on a quest to find his legend. Coelho’s lyrical prose and profound insights make this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and purpose.
“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert
In this memoir, Gilbert recounts her year-long journey across Italy, India, and Bali, as she seeks to rediscover herself and find balance in her life. Her honest and humorous reflections on love, spirituality, and the pursuit of happiness make this book a delightful read.
“In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson
Join Bryson on his hilarious and informative journey through the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia. With his trademark wit and curiosity, Bryson explores the country’s unique wildlife, history, and quirks, leaving readers entertained and enlightened.
“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed
Strayed’s memoir chronicles her solo hike along the challenging Pacific Crest Trail, as she seeks healing and self-discovery after a series of personal hardships. Her raw and honest storytelling captures the transformative power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.
PHOTO: PIXABAY
“A Walk in the Woods” by Bill Bryson
Join Bryson once again as he takes on the Appalachian Trail, a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, unexpected encounters, and humorous anecdotes. Bryson’s witty observations and keen insights into the natural world make this book a delightful read for both hikers and armchair travellers.
“Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer
Krakauer’s gripping account of the ill-fated 1996 Mount Everest expedition offers a haunting glimpse into the world of high-altitude mountaineering. With vivid descriptions and introspective reflections, he explores the risks and rewards of pursuing extreme adventures.
“The Lost City of Z” by David Grann
In this captivating narrative, Grann retraces the steps of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who vanished in the Amazon rainforest while searching for a mythical city. Blending history, adventure, and mystery, Grann takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the jungle.
“Travels with Charley: In Search of America” by John Steinbeck
Join Steinbeck and his faithful poodle, Charley, as they embark on a road trip across America. Steinbeck’s insightful observations and evocative descriptions of the people and landscapes he encounters make this book a classic travel memoir.
“The Great Railway Bazaar” by Paul Theroux
In this travelogue, Theroux recounts his four-month journey through Asia by train. With keen observations and a keen eye for detail, he captures the essence of the countries and cultures he encounters along the way.
Top 3 Memoirs of Famous Travellers
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Throughout history, there have been remarkable individuals whose travels have inspired generations. Their memoirs offer unique insights into the destinations they explored and the lessons they learned along the way. Here are a few memoirs by famous travellers that deserve a place on your reading list:
“Travels” by Michael Crichton
Renowned author Michael Crichton shares his adventures around the world, from hiking in the Himalayas to diving in the Great Barrier Reef. His engaging storytelling and eclectic experiences make this memoir a captivating read.
“The Motorcycle Diaries” by Ernesto “Che” Guevara
Before he became a revolutionary icon, Che Guevara embarked on a transformative motorcycle journey across South America. This diary captures his observations of poverty, injustice, and the beauty of the continent, laying the groundwork for his later activism.
“Seven Years in Tibet” by Heinrich Harrer
Harrer’s memoir chronicles his escape from a British internment camp in India and his subsequent adventures in Tibet. His encounters with the Dalai Lama and his insights into Tibetan culture make this book a fascinating read.
Top 3 Books on Specific Destinations or Regions
If you’re planning a trip to a particular destination or want to delve deeper into the culture and history of a specific region, these books will provide invaluable insights and inspiration:
PHOTO: UNSPLASH
“Midnight’s Children” by Salman Rushdie
Set against the backdrop of India’s independence and partition, Rushdie’s novel offers a sweeping portrait of the country’s history and politics. Through the lives of its characters, he illuminates the complexities of post-colonial India.
“The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway
Hemingway’s iconic novel takes readers on a journey through 1920s Paris and the bullfighting arenas of Spain. With his spare prose and vivid descriptions, Hemingway captures the essence of these vibrant locales.
“Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts
Set in the bustling city of Mumbai, this epic novel follows the adventures of an escaped Australian convict. Roberts’ immersive storytelling and rich character development bring the chaotic streets of Mumbai to life.
Embarking on a literary journey through the pages of these 20 best travel books is an opportunity to explore the world from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, knowledge, or simply a captivating story, these books offer a glimpse into the wonders of travel. So grab a book, settle into your favourite reading spot, and let your imagination take flight.
Ready to embark on your literary journey? Start by picking up one of these 16 best travel books and let your imagination take flight. Happy reading and bon voyage!
