Looking for best Travel books to Read? We got them for you. Travel books are windows to the world, offering readers a glimpse into the vast array of experiences that await them beyond their familiar surroundings. These literary journeys transport readers to far-off lands, immersing them in the cultures, traditions, and natural wonders that define the world we live in.
A travel book is more than just a chronicle of a traveler’s experiences; it is a testament to the transformative power of travel. Whether it is the thrill of exploration, the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, or the simple pleasure of a new cuisine, travel opens up new horizons and broadens our understanding of the world.
From Marco Polo’s “The Travels of Marco Polo” to Cheryl Strayed’s “Wild,” travel writing has been an essential part of the literary landscape for centuries. These books are not only entertaining and informative, but they also provide a unique perspective on the human experience. They offer readers a chance to step outside of their comfort zones and witness the beauty and complexity of the world firsthand.
Travel books come in many forms, ranging from memoirs to guidebooks. Memoirs provide an intimate and personal account of a traveler’s experiences, while guidebooks offer practical advice on everything from lodging to local customs. Travelogues, on the other hand, focus on the journey itself, documenting the challenges and triumphs of the traveler’s adventures.
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One of the most appealing aspects of travel books is their ability to transport readers to new and exciting places. Through vivid descriptions and colorful anecdotes, travel writers bring to life the sights, sounds, and smells of the places they visit. They capture the essence of a culture, revealing its history, customs, and values. They also share the joys and hardships of the journey, providing readers with a glimpse into the life of a traveler.
Whether exploring the winding streets of Paris or trekking through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, travel books offer readers a chance to explore the world without leaving the comfort of their armchair. They provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to step outside of our daily routines and experience the world in a new and exciting way.
Here is the list of 7 best Travel books to read on Kindle Unlimited –
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“Wild” is a gripping and inspiring memoir that chronicles Cheryl Strayed’s solo hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a 1,100-mile journey that begins in the Mojave Desert of California and ends at the Bridge of the Gods in Washington State.
The book is a raw and honest account of Strayed’s journey, which she undertakes after a period of personal turmoil and loss, including the death of her mother, the breakup of her marriage, and a descent into drug addiction. With no prior hiking experience, Strayed sets out on the PCT, hoping to find solace and clarity in the wilderness.
Throughout the book, Strayed’s vivid descriptions of the trail and the natural world that surrounds her are breathtaking. She depicts the harsh and unforgiving terrain of the Mojave Desert, the beauty and isolation of the High Sierra, and the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range with remarkable detail and clarity.
Along the way, Strayed encounters a range of characters, from fellow hikers and trail angels to drug addicts and dangerous men. These encounters provide a glimpse into the diverse and sometimes challenging subculture of the hiking community, while also highlighting Strayed’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
But “Wild” is more than just a story about hiking; it is also a powerful reflection on self-discovery and the healing power of nature. As Strayed confronts her own inner demons and grapples with her past mistakes, she finds solace and strength in the natural world around her.
She discovers that the wilderness has the power to heal and transform, and that by confronting her fears and pushing herself beyond her limits, she can emerge stronger and more self-aware.
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“Into the Wild” is a gripping and thought-provoking non-fiction book by Jon Krakauer that tells the story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandons his privileged life to live off the land in the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer’s journalistic style brings McCandless’s journey to life, exploring themes of freedom, isolation, and the pursuit of meaning.
The book begins with the discovery of McCandless’s body in an abandoned bus in the Alaskan wilderness, and then traces his journey from his privileged upbringing to his decision to leave his comfortable life behind and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through interviews with family members and friends, as well as McCandless’s own diary entries and letters, Krakauer paints a vivid portrait of a young man who was searching for something more in life.
As McCandless travels across the country, hitchhiking and working odd jobs, Krakauer examines the cultural and social factors that may have contributed to his desire to escape from society. He also explores the philosophical and literary influences that inspired McCandless, including the works of Jack London and Henry David Thoreau.
Once McCandless reaches Alaska, Krakauer describes in vivid detail his attempts to survive in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness. Through McCandless’s own journal entries and photographs, the reader gets a sense of the physical and mental challenges he faced, as well as the beauty and isolation of the Alaskan landscape.
Ultimately, “Into the Wild” is a meditation on the human desire for freedom and the search for meaning in life. Krakauer’s careful research and journalistic style bring McCandless’s story to life, while also exploring broader themes of individualism, self-reliance, and the limits of human experience. The book is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-discovery and the risks and rewards that come with pursuing one’s own path in life.
“A Walk in the Woods” is a hilarious and engaging memoir by Bill Bryson that chronicles his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile trek that stretches from Georgia to Maine, with his old friend Stephen Katz. The book is a blend of personal memoir, travelogue, and natural history, and is filled with Bryson’s trademark wit and humor.
As Bryson and Katz set out on the trail, they quickly realize that they are woefully unprepared for the physical and mental challenges that await them. They struggle with everything from blisters and sore muscles to steep inclines and unpredictable weather. But despite these challenges, they persevere, forming a deep bond of friendship and exploring the natural beauty of the trail along the way.
Throughout the book, Bryson interweaves anecdotes about the history, ecology, and culture of the Appalachian Trail. He reflects on the trail’s rich heritage, from the Native Americans who first inhabited the region to the early pioneers who blazed the trail for future generations. He also explores the unique flora and fauna of the trail, from the abundant wildlife to the rare and endangered species that call it home.
But perhaps the most memorable aspect of “A Walk in the Woods” is Bryson’s witty and irreverent commentary on the people he encounters on the trail. From the grizzled veterans who have hiked the trail multiple times to the quirky and eccentric characters they meet along the way, Bryson’s observations are as insightful as they are hilarious.
Ultimately, “A Walk in the Woods” is a delightful and entertaining book that captures the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the natural world. Bryson’s wit and humor make it a joy to read, while his insights into the history and culture of the Appalachian Trail add depth and meaning to the story. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever dreamed of embarking on an epic adventure in the great outdoors.
“The Art of Travel” is a philosophical exploration of the nature and purpose of travel by Alain de Botton. In this book, de Botton draws on the writings of artists, writers, and philosophers to explore why we travel and what we hope to gain from it. The book is a thought-provoking and insightful examination of the emotional and psychological aspects of travel.
The book is organized into five parts, each of which explores a different aspect of travel. The first part examines the idea of anticipation and the role it plays in travel. De Botton argues that the anticipation of a trip can often be more exciting than the trip itself and that this anticipation can be heightened by the use of guidebooks and other travel literature.
The second part of the book explores the idea of the exotic and the way in which travel can offer us a glimpse of a world that is different from our own. De Botton argues that this sense of otherness can be both exhilarating and unsettling and that it can help us to appreciate the diversity of human experience.
The third part of the book explores the idea of authenticity and the way in which travel can offer us a sense of connection to a place or culture that is deeper than that which we can experience as tourists. De Botton argues that this sense of connection can be found through a willingness to embrace the unfamiliar and to engage with the local people and customs.
The fourth part of the book explores the idea of the sublime and the way in which travel can evoke a sense of awe and wonder in us. De Botton argues that this sense of the sublime can be found in the beauty of nature or in the grandeur of human-made structures.
The final part of the book examines the idea of returning home and the way in which travel can change us and our perceptions of the world. De Botton argues that travel can help us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our own lives and can offer us a new perspective on the world we live in.
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“The Geography of Bliss” is a travel memoir by Eric Weiner, in which he sets out to explore what makes people happy by visiting some of the happiest countries in the world. Weiner’s journey takes him to places like Bhutan, Iceland, and Switzerland, as well as to less expected locations like Moldova and Qatar.
Throughout the book, Weiner shares his observations and insights about happiness, drawing on his experiences in each country as well as research from psychology and philosophy. He explores the role that factors such as culture, history, and geography play in shaping our emotions and our sense of well-being.
Weiner’s travels take him to places that are often overlooked by tourists, but that offer unique insights into the nature of happiness. In Bhutan, for example, he learns about the concept of Gross National Happiness, a measure of well-being that takes into account factors such as environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and good governance. In Iceland, he discovers the importance of community and connection, as well as the benefits of being surrounded by nature.
One of the strengths of “The Geography of Bliss” is Weiner’s ability to blend personal anecdotes with insights from academic research. He weaves together stories of his travels with discussions of happiness research and the philosophies of thinkers such as Aristotle and the Dalai Lama. This combination of personal reflection and intellectual inquiry makes the book both engaging and informative.
Ultimately, “The Geography of Bliss” is a compelling exploration of the nature of happiness and the factors that contribute to it. Weiner’s humor, curiosity, and openness make him an engaging guide, and his reflections on the role of culture and environment in shaping our emotions are both thought-provoking and insightful.
“The Mountaineering Handbook” by Sanjai Banerji is a comprehensive guide to mountaineering, covering a wide range of topics related to climbing, safety, and wilderness ethics. The book is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced climbers, providing detailed information on technical skills, safety procedures, and environmental responsibility.
One of the key strengths of the book is its breadth of coverage. Banerji covers a wide range of topics related to mountaineering, including building climbing anchors, belaying, rappelling, jumaring, rock climbing, snow and ice craft, avalanches, glaciers, mountain ranges of India, tent-pitching, river-crossing, and navigation using maps. This makes the book an ideal resource for climbers who want to expand their knowledge and skills in a variety of areas.
In addition to technical skills, “The Mountaineering Handbook” also covers important safety and risk factors in detail. This includes high-altitude acclimatization, avalanche rescue, survival techniques, preventing accidents, cold injuries, and first-aid. Banerji emphasizes the importance of preparing for and responding to emergencies, which is crucial for anyone venturing into the wilderness.
Another important aspect of the book is its focus on environmental responsibility. Banerji highlights the principles of leaving no trace, which involves minimizing one’s impact on the environment by following certain guidelines for camping, hiking, and other activities in the wilderness. The book also covers topics such as campsite selection, climate change, camp sanitation, and hygiene, all of which are essential for preserving the natural beauty of the mountains and forests.
One of the most useful aspects of the book is its emphasis on physical training exercises required for mountaineering. Banerji provides a detailed overview of the types of exercises and training programs climbers should undertake to build strength, endurance, and flexibility. This information is particularly valuable for novice climbers who may not have a background in physical fitness or sports.
“The Antarctica Expedition – My Dream Come True” by Major Mahesh Patel is a gripping first-hand account of the author’s experience as a member of the 8th wintering team of India to the continent of Antarctica.
The book takes the reader on a journey to the southernmost continent of the world, describing in vivid detail the harsh conditions and the challenges faced by the team during their stay in Antarctica.
The book starts by introducing the reader to the selection process of the team members and the rigorous training they underwent to prepare themselves for the expedition. The author describes how the team members had to be self-sufficient and execute various engineering tasks to ensure the survival of the entire team, as there were no facilities or support available in the hostile environment of Antarctica.
The author then takes the reader through the journey to Antarctica, describing the journey from India to Antarctica and the initial challenges faced by the team upon their arrival. The book gives a detailed account of the day-to-day life of the team members and how they coped with the extreme weather conditions, isolation and the monotony of life in Antarctica.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is the description of the various tasks performed by the team members to ensure their survival in Antarctica. The book describes the building of the team’s living quarters and the challenges faced in setting up a self-sufficient camp in the harsh environment. The author also details the various scientific experiments conducted by the team members to study the unique Antarctic environment.
The book is a great read for adventure enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring the unexplored parts of the world. The author’s descriptions of the stunning natural beauty of Antarctica and the unique wildlife that inhabits the continent are truly awe-inspiring. The book is also an inspiring tale of human resilience and the ability to adapt to even the most hostile environments.
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In conclusion, Kindle Unlimited provides a vast selection of travel books that are perfect for inspiring wanderlust and helping you plan your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for practical travel advice, immersive travelogues, or a dose of humor to brighten your day, there’s something for every type of traveler on this list.
From exploring the wilderness of Alaska to indulging in the cuisine of Italy, these books will transport you to different corners of the world and help you discover new cultures and experiences. So why not take advantage of the wide range of travel books available on Kindle Unlimited and start planning your next trip today? Happy reading and happy travels!
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