Where Travel Writing Lives
A regularly updated list of books which will move, educate and inspire you to hit the road with open eyes and a clear mind.
Oracle Bones, Country Driving and River Town by Peter Hessler. Hessler’s entertaining, witty and well observed travel accounts are absolutely essential for anyone interested in China.
Istanbul by Orhan Pamuk. In some ways this is the opposite of a travel book, in that it’s about staying put and discovering a deeper, more profound knowledge of one place than any traveller on a journey could wish to.
Travels with Herodotus by Ryszard Kapuściński. A Polish journalist, a 2500 year old book, impossibly rich prose and a moving take on Africa and the world.
Vagabonding – Rolf Potts’ justifiably famous manual for long term travel, covering both the practicalities and philosophy of life on the road.
The Songlines – Bruce Chatwin’s fascinating journey’s across Australia, looking into the soul of Aboriginal Culture
In Patagonia – When Chatwin quit his job in London he sent a short telegram to his boss reading simply “gone to Patagonia.” This book is the result.
A Time of Gifts – by Patrick Leigh Fermor walked across Europe in the 1930s when he was 19. When he was an adult, literary titan and respected travel writer, Fermor reflected on his youthful journey. The result is transcendent.
The Great Railway Bazaar – Paul Theroux’s famous journey from Europe to Asia by train.
Ghost Train to the Eastern Star – Several decades later Theroux retraces his famous trip and finds himself exploring a changed world.
Behind the Wall – Colin Thubron’s adventures in China
On The Road – Jack Kerouc. If you love this book, you’re a traveler.
Travel Blogs You Should Be Following
Discover good writing, useful tips and beautiful photography on what may become travel writing’s second home.
Shanghai Street Stories – erudite and well observed photography blog.
JohnnyJet – Travel stories and tips from the USA and beyond. My interview.
Ever In Transit – Food and photography to make you eager to get out the door and explore!
Keep Calm and Travel – Better advice has never been given (and the blog is well worth a read).
Thrifty Nomads – Fun and entertaining blog with great tips for budget travel.
Nomadic Samuel – Interesting stories and useful guides by Sam, a red haired traveler who has been exploring the globe for almost 10 years. With fun and interesting stories and great photos it’s easy to see why this blog is so popular.
That Backpacker – Sam’s wide, Audrey, shares her beautiful photography and great descriptions of cities and destinations across Europe and around the world on her own travel blog.
Backpacking Travel Blog – Sam and Audrey join forces as a couple with a mission to ‘show you the world.’
Never Ending Footsteps – Lauren Juliff has an inspiring story about how she overcame her crippling anxiety through travel. She writes well about her often disaster prone trips.
Exile Lifestyle – Colin Wright’s musings about life and travel are always interesting and often profound.
Johnny Vagabond – It’s always exciting when Wes adds a new story. A great writer and dedicated traveler.
