Although it is essential to read informational travel books, it is imperative to read memoirs too.
Memoires are a form of storytelling and joy that can’t be replaced and give an insight into a location that usually isn’t in a tourist manual.
Travel writers have a specific skill that so finely tuned you feel like you are with them in the heat of the day. You could almost be with them as you use Radical Storage Barcelona or as they breathe in the spices at the souk.
They pull you in and give you a description like nothing you’ve ever read.
Travel memories are filled with opinions, but also with information. It makes them an integral part of the travel world and is why travel blogs are so popular.
So who should you be reading?
Anthony Bourdain
A legend in travel and food. Anthony never held back as he traveled and ate his way around the world; his writing and shows are a testament to his work ethic and style.
His writing will reach out and touch your curiosity and make you want to eat as he ate, and walked and he walked through multiple lands.
If you want to jump in at the deep end, try The Nasty Bits available on Amazon, and watch No Reservations when you can.
Jan Morris
Go specifically for the book Among the Cities. It is a compilation of 37 essays penned with poise and passion throughout her career.
Jan writes like a combination of a journalistic fact-based storyteller, with the wit and descriptive prowess of a trained creative writer.
In this book, you will find something from almost everywhere.
Jan wrote like she was in love with life, for its flaws and because of them.
Bill Bryson
One of the travel writers who inspire people to write or travel; sometimes both. Bill manages to bring all of the people and the location to life.
The descriptions of the people, the culture, and other observations are incredible.
It’s no wonder Bill is one of the most popular travel writers.
With a style of his own, you should start with In A Sunburned Country and see when you will travel next with Bill.
Peter Matthiessen
If you wish to be wholly immersed in a search for the most elusive creatures on the planet, then let Peter take you on a journey.
You’ll travel across the Himilayas with a Zen Buddhist and be treated to not just the description of the travel but the impact it has too. The Snow Leopard is a stunning must-read book.
It is a reminder that the things we see, do, taste, and hear are imprinted on us when we travel. We carry them forever, and sometimes we are changed for good.
Travel writing isn’t just a walk down a fact-filled street; it is a walk with people who are seeking, studying, learning, and sharing that with us.
It’s the bringing together the travel’s finer details, from the actual prices to the food you should be trying.