1. Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert
Gilbert writes this book after experincing divorce and then heartbreak with an affair. She’s desperate to mend her broken heart and find herself again. Eventually, she decides to embark on a one year vacation – four months in Italy, four months in India and four months in Indonessia. She learns many valuable life lessons in these three countries as she meets many interesting people and experiences new things. It shares the spiritual journey she undergos through meditation and yoga. She eventually finds love, peace and happiness again with a whole new perspective. Ultimately it’s a book about self-discovery.
2. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
Strayed decided to write this book four years after her mother’s death. A time when she believed that her world was ended and she couldn’t see a way forward. She tells her story of her marriage breaking down and a series of unfortunate events that came after he mothers death. It led her to the darkest place she had ever been with not much hope of a bright future. These thoughts led her to believe that she had nothing to lose so might as well try something. She embarks on a journey as a solo female traveller in the hope of finding herself. And fills us in on all the adventures and magical experiences she encounter along the way. It will unquestionably give you the travel bug!
3. Down Under by Bill Bryson
If you want to know more about Australia before visiting, this book is a must-read! Byrson covers all of the major Australian cities, such as Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide and many more. He gives great advice on the best attractions to visit and must-sees. He provides well-researched and informative information about Australia. It’s loaded with facts and figures! After reading this you’ll definitely feel clued up and maybe even a little bit like an expert. Bryson also has a great sense of humour which makes the book even more enjoyable to read. From everything to wildlife to weather to popular spots. He’ll help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
4. Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux
Looking to travel to Africa but don’t know where to start? Theroux gives a brilliant account of travelling through Africa. Whether you want to travel it by bus, truck, ferry, train or canoe! He gives advice on all of the possible routes and modes of transport. The book warns you of all the possible dangers and how to travel safely and sensibly. You will find out about the history of Africa, the locals, culture and so much more! As he moves through Africa he shares his enlightening story and everything he learnt about this beautiful country along the way.
5. How to Travel the World on $50 a Day: Third Edition: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Smarter by Matt Kepnes
Kepnes understands what it’s like to be on a very limited budget with dreams to travel the world. He’s created this book because he believes that travelling doesn’t have to break the bank and in fact, you don’t need much money to do so. All you need is good budgeting skills and an affordable plan. If you’re saving to go travelling but don’t believe you have enough money, have a read! He might just change your mind. He gives so many different useful tips and tricks. Such as how to avoid bank fees anywhere in the world, accommodation discounts, finding the best deals and so much more.