Celebrated on 23 April, World Book Day was established by UNESCO in 1995 to champion the joy of reading, the immeasurable value of books, and—dare we say—the importance of being earnest (pun very much intended). The date pays tribute to the death anniversaries of literary titans such as William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega. So, on this day devoted to authors and their enduring words, we turn the page to one of literature’s most evocative and timeless genres: the travelogue.
From Greek academics to Chinese adventurers, travel writing has long been used to document and disseminate the human experience of travelling the world. It has developed over centuries from straightforward descriptions of faraway places to profoundly introspective tales that examine not only geography but also the intellectual, emotional, and cultural effects of travel. The tone for a genre that blends history, adventure, and introspection was established by authors such as Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo.
This World Book Day, we’ve rounded up some of the best contemporary travel books you shouldn't miss. Browse the list before your next bookstore visit and pick the one that speaks to your wanderlust.
This book explores the fundamental reasons why people choose to travel. Insightful thoughts on the psychological and emotional advantages of travelling outside of one's comfort zone are interwoven with the author's personal experiences in this book. Bhardwaj investigates how travel develops empathy, shapes our identities, and promotes personal development. This book is a provocative examination of the deeper motivations behind our global travels, making it the perfect choice for readers who want to learn more.
When Anthony Doerr received the prestigious Rome Prize—just as he and his wife brought home newborn twins—he was granted a year in Rome with a writing studio and stipend. "Four Seasons in Rome" is his beautifully observed memoir of that transformative year, blending new parenthood with daily encounters in one of the world’s most enchanting cities. As he navigates sleepless nights, Doerr also wanders ancient streets, reads Pliny and Dante, and joins locals in vigils and celebrations. Both a love letter to Rome and a meditation on family and creativity, this intimate book captures the quiet, profound shifts of life.
"Slow Trains to Istanbul" provides an entertaining and educational trip across Europe for those who are interested in rail travel. Tom Chesshyre traces the famous route of the Orient Express through a sequence of fifty-five train journeys. Along the way, Chesshyre highlights the allure and unpredictable nature of leisurely, picturesque travel by sharing intriguing tales, encounters, and historical details. For those who enjoy trains, history, and impromptu travel, this memoir is ideal.
In his book, Ben Coates brings together quirky history with personal travelogue as he rediscovers the city he's lived in for over a decade—this time on foot. After injuring his leg, Coates sets out on ten carefully planned walks, each tracing a chapter of Amsterdam’s evolution—from its modest origins as a 13th-century fishing village to the splendour of the Dutch Golden Age, through colonial expansion, two world wars, and its many reinventions. Along the way, he weaves together encounters with vibrant street life, hidden courtyards, WWII memorials, and Rembrandt’s masterpieces, while also reflecting on present-day moments like Pride celebrations, the King’s Keti Koti apology, and a stroll through the red-light district. Both entertaining and sharply observed, this is a captivating portrait of a complicated, resilient city—perfect for anyone who loves Amsterdam.
In his book, Alastair Humphreys highlights the idea of “microadventures”—the notion that adventure doesn't have to involve journeying to far-off places. Within a 12-mile radius of his house, Humphreys spent time exploring the area, finding undiscovered natural treasures and reinventing the concept of connecting with nature. Anyone who wants to examine their immediate surroundings with new eyes and a sense of wonder should read this book.
The makers of Atlas Obscura are back with an engrossing manual on the planet's most remarkable animals and ecosystems. Wild Life introduces readers to hidden treasures in the natural world, such as ancient forests and bioluminescent bays, through captivating descriptions and breathtaking illustrations. This book, which celebrates the wild and wonderful mysteries of nature, is ideal for those who enjoy biodiversity.
In this captivating analysis of ancient India's historical impact on global trade and culture, William Dalrymple eloquently conveys the nation's incredible legacy. From the complex Silk Road to the intellectual exchanges at Nalanda University, "The Golden Road" demonstrates how India's inventions impacted art, science, and religion globally. This outstanding work takes the reader on a historical journey while also honouring the subcontinent's enduring influence.
This story was originally published in December 2024. It has since been updated.
