Feeling restless and craving adventure? These travel books will keep you inspired until you can set off again! Each title shaped my journey and instilled the courage to embrace a life of exploration. Books often provide the encouragement needed to break free from societal norms and pursue an unconventional lifestyle.
As I read, I mark pages with impactful quotes and lines. After finishing, I type them out or save them digitally. This practice seems trivial but offers immense comfort, reminding me that others understand my journey. Below, I’ve included some of my favorite passages. These insights were especially handy when I interviewed renowned author Pico Iyer last year for a story.
This post serves as inspiration and gratitude to the authors who’ve influenced my life. Check out my curated book list below:
1. A Pirate Looks at Fifty by Jimmy Buffett
Jimmy Buffett, the iconic musician and author, is my idol! I read A Pirate Looks at Fifty on my first international flight to England at 19. His journey from a small town to global travels inspired me to pursue my own dreams. Buffett shares captivating stories from his life and imparts wisdom like: “Fifty is not the age to try and start a new life. Begin your adventures as early as you can.”
2. The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
Trains are my preferred travel method, making Theroux’s classic, The Great Railway Bazaar, a must-read. It chronicles his journey from London to Tokyo and back, filled with humor and cultural insights. His sequel, Ghost Train to the Eastern Star, is currently on my reading list and evokes nostalgia for Asia.
3. West with the Night by Beryl Markham
Beryl Markham’s adventurous life is worthy of a film. Her memoir, West with the Night, details her groundbreaking career as Africa's first female racehorse trainer and pilot. She became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1936. Markham’s reflections on leaving places resonate deeply: “Leave it any way except a slow way.”
4. Souvenir by Rolf Potts
Travel writer Rolf Potts explores the meaning behind souvenirs in Souvenir. He delves into their historical significance and personal narratives, urging readers to contemplate their collections. I personally collect beer bottle caps from my travels, transforming them into magnets.
5. Our Man in Havana by Graham Greene
This 1958 classic, set in Cuba, tells a humorous tale of a hapless spy recruited by MI6. The protagonist's misadventures and farcical reports provide a satirical look at intelligence work, drawing from Greene's own experiences.
6. The Global Soul by Pico Iyer
Pico Iyer's The Global Soul beautifully explores the concept of home through essays. Iyer, born in England to Indian parents, reflects on his life as an expat. His insights on returning home resonate deeply with travelers. I had the pleasure of interviewing him for a piece on his latest works.
7. The Once and Future King by T.H. White
T. H. White’s The Once and Future King captivated me as a teen. This retelling of King Arthur's legend blends humor and adventure, making it a delightful read. The tale’s timeless themes inspire wanderlust.
8. Freedom From Exile: The Autobiography of the Dalai Lama by Dalai Lama
This autobiography offers profound insights into Tibetan history and the Dalai Lama's life. After working in McLeod Ganj, I became fascinated by his teachings and philosophies, which challenge perceptions of travel and spirituality.
9. The Open Road by Pico Iyer
Iyer’s The Open Road dives into the personal life of the Dalai Lama, blending public and private insights. Iyer, who knows the Dalai Lama personally, provides a unique perspective on Buddhist philosophy.
10. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
In 2007, I discovered Vagabonding, which helped me overcome my fears of long-term travel. Potts outlines practical advice for adjusting to life on the road and funding your adventures. This book was my guide for my first extended trip abroad.
11. A Good Year by Peter Mayle
This novel illustrates how a shift in scenery can transform one’s life. The story centers on Max Skinner, who inherits a vineyard in France, leading to an unexpected journey of self-discovery. I enjoy both the book and its film adaptation.
12. John Muir and the Ice that Started the Fire by Kim Heacox
Heacox’s biography of John Muir emphasizes the significance of glaciers. It chronicles Muir’s explorations and his deep connection to nature, particularly his adventures in Alaska. His relationship with a dog named Stickeen is particularly heartwarming.
13. The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh
This historical fiction novel spans over a century in Burma and India, detailing the rise of a young boy named Rajkumar amidst the backdrop of colonialism. The vivid descriptions of Mandalay left a lasting impression on me during my travels.
14. The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss
Tim Ferriss’s The 4-Hour Work Week is a transformative guide to optimizing life for travel. His concept of fear setting resonated with me, helping me navigate challenges during the 2008 recession.
15. Good With Money by Anna Mazurek
The 2008 recession taught me invaluable lessons about financial management, inspiring me to write Good With Money. I detail how I overcame financial challenges and share strategies to help others navigate tough times.
If you’re looking for movie recommendations, consider the “Before Sunrise” series.
Richard Linklater’s 1995 film “Before Sunrise” follows a chance encounter between two travelers, Jessie and Celine, in Vienna. Their deep conversation unfolds over a day, exploring themes of love and connection. Two sequels, “Before Sunset” and “Before Midnight,” continue their story years later, showcasing the evolution of their relationship.
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