In 2019, the world of travel literature was rich and diverse, offering readers everything from personal travel accounts to historical explorations, and even deeper examinations of the impact of travel on our societies and the environment. Travel books provide a unique window into the world, offering a blend of adventure, personal reflection, cultural exploration, and insightful commentary. Whether it’s a journey to faraway lands or an exploration of the places we know well, these books have the power to inspire, educate, and transport us to new and unfamiliar territories.
Here, we’ll explore the ten best books about travel from 2019, each of which captured the spirit of exploration and the transformative power of travel uniquely and compellingly.
- “The Salt Path” by Raynor Winn
In The Salt Path, Raynor Winn tells the story of her journey along the South West Coast Path, a long-distance trail in England, with her husband Moth. After losing their home and being diagnosed with a terminal illness, the couple embarks on a life-changing adventure, walking the rugged coastline in an attempt to rebuild their lives. The book is a poignant exploration of resilience, love, and the healing power of nature. Winn’s raw and emotional writing captures the transformative nature of travel, particularly how it can offer solace and clarity in times of despair.
The book explores themes of loss, hope, and the strength of human connection, all set against the beautiful yet unforgiving backdrop of England’s coastline. It serves as both a memoir and a tribute to the power of nature, while also reflecting on the healing journey that is both physical and emotional.
Why Read It: If you are looking for a story about overcoming adversity through the lens of travel, The Salt Path is an inspiring and heartfelt read that showcases the profound ways in which journeys can shape our lives.
- “A Walk in the Woods” (Reissue) by Bill Bryson
While not originally published in 1998, the reissue of Bill Bryson’s classic A Walk in the Woods in 2019 brought renewed attention to this hilarious and insightful book. Bryson’s recounting of his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail with his out-of-shape friend Katz is a blend of wit, adventure, and reflection. Along the way, Bryson delves into the history, ecology, and cultural significance of the trail, blending personal anecdotes with educational insights.
The book is beloved for Bryson’s trademark humor, deep love of nature, and the sense of camaraderie that emerges as he and Katz navigate the trail’s challenges. It’s a brilliant example of how travel writing can be both entertaining and educational, with its mix of personal adventure and the broader context of nature conservation.
Why Read It: Bill Bryson’s wit and the beautiful exploration of the Appalachian Trail make this book both engaging and enlightening. If you love the outdoors or enjoy reading about quirky personal adventures, this is a must-read.
- “The Feather Thief” by Kirk Wallace Johnson
The Feather Thief takes readers on a journey far beyond traditional travel narratives, combining history, true crime, and the world of fly-tying. The book tells the bizarre story of a young man who steals rare bird feathers from a British museum, intending to use them for fly-tying, an art practiced by aficionados around the world. This captivating true story weaves through different geographies, from London to the wilds of Alaska, and brings attention to the allure of nature’s rarest creatures, the art of fly-tying, and the lengths people will go to for their passions.
Johnson’s book isn’t just a recounting of the theft but also an exploration of obsession, beauty, and the fascinating subcultures that emerge from niche passions. Through meticulous research, Johnson travels both physically and metaphorically into the heart of the story’s peculiar obsession.
Why Read It: If you’re intrigued by true crime, adventure, and an exploration of cultural obsessions, The Feather Thief offers a fascinating mix of travel, history, and suspense.
- “Lands of Lost Borders: A Journey on the Silk Road” by Kate Harris
In Lands of Lost Borders, Kate Harris retraces the ancient Silk Road, one of the world’s most famous and influential trade routes, with a bicycle. This book is both a memoir and a deep exploration of the lands and peoples that define the Silk Road’s rich history. Harris reflects on the intersection of geography, politics, and culture as she pedals through remote deserts and mountainous regions, taking in the landscapes of Central Asia, China, and Turkey.
Harris’s writing beautifully conveys her sense of wonder as she confronts not only the physical challenges of her journey but also the broader implications of historical borders and the stories embedded in the land itself. It’s a perfect blend of personal exploration and historical investigation, exploring the complexities of borders, both geographic and psychological.
Why Read It: If you’re looking for a book that combines an adventurous journey with thoughtful reflections on history, culture, and borders, Lands of Lost Borders offers a profound and adventurous take on travel.
- “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton
Although not strictly a 2019 release, Alain de Botton’s The Art of Travel remains a timeless exploration of the philosophy of travel. De Botton examines travel through a series of reflective essays that delve into why we travel, what we seek, and how travel transforms us. By juxtaposing the idealized notions of destinations with the more mundane realities of the journey, the book encourages readers to reconsider what travel means and why we pursue it.
De Botton’s philosophical approach to travel is paired with wit and a touch of humor, offering an insightful commentary on everything from how travel can expand our perspectives to how it can often leave us disappointed if our expectations are unrealistic.
Why Read It: The Art of Travel is perfect for those who want to reflect on the deeper meaning of travel, with a mix of personal reflection and intellectual inquiry. It’s a book that makes you think about the purpose of travel, rather than just the destinations.
- “Around the World in 80 Trains” by Monisha Rajesh
Monisha Rajesh’s Around the World in 80 Trains takes readers on a journey across the globe, using trains as her mode of transport. Rajesh embarks on a trip that spans six continents, traveling across Europe, Russia, Asia, and the Americas to experience different cultures, landscapes, and train journeys, all while unraveling the history and significance of the train system in global travel.
The book is an engaging account of adventure, discovery, and the nostalgia of train travel. Rajesh captures the beauty of the world seen from the windows of iconic trains, including the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Indian Railways, and the Orient Express.
Why Read It: If you’re interested in the romance of train travel and a globetrotting adventure that explores the connections between people and places through the railway system, this is the perfect book to dive into.
- “The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency” by Alexander McCall Smith
While originally published in 1998, the enduring popularity of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series was further celebrated in 2019 with the release of several new editions and a renewed interest in the story of Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s first female detective. This beloved series is a delightful, heartwarming read that blends travel with mystery as it explores the landscapes and cultures of Botswana through the lens of detective fiction.
McCall Smith’s depiction of Botswana is not only a backdrop for the mysteries Mma Ramotswe solves but also a loving portrayal of the people and customs of this unique African nation. The series introduces readers to a cast of charming characters, witty mysteries, and a sense of place that transports them to Africa’s heartland.
Why Read It: For those looking for a lighthearted and culturally immersive travel experience, The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency offers a feel-good mystery that captures the essence of Africa through the eyes of an unforgettable protagonist.
- “The Book of Delights” by Ross Gay
In The Book of Delights, poet Ross Gay reflects on the small joys and delights of life as he travels through his everyday world. Written as a series of personal essays, Gay’s book takes readers on a journey not through faraway lands, but through the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. His travels are inward, exploring the power of kindness, beauty, and simple pleasures.
While not a traditional travel narrative, this book is a reminder that travel doesn’t always have to be about exploring new places—it can also be about exploring our connection to the present moment, the people around us, and the world as it exists in its simplest, most delightful forms.
Why Read It: If you are looking for an uplifting, thoughtful book that focuses on the beauty of ordinary life and travels within, The Book of Delights will inspire you to find joy in the everyday.
- “The Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Quiz Book” by Lonely Planet
For those who love travel trivia and exploring the world from the comfort of their armchair, the Lonely Planet Ultimate Travel Quiz Book offers a fun and engaging way to test your travel knowledge. Packed with over 200 questions, the book covers a wide range of travel topics, from geography and culture to famous landmarks and cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone looking to broaden your horizons, this quiz book is an entertaining way to learn about the world.
Why Read It: Perfect for travel
enthusiasts, this quiz book provides a fun way to challenge yourself and discover new facts about the world. It’s a great companion for armchair travelers and those planning their next big adventure.
- “The Geography of Bliss” by Eric Weiner
In this travel memoir, The Geography of Bliss, Eric Weiner explores the pursuit of happiness in various countries around the world. Weiner travels to places like Iceland, Qatar, and Bhutan to understand the factors that contribute to a nation’s happiness, blending humor with insightful commentary. His journey is both lighthearted and deeply thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on what it means to live a happy life.
Why Read It: If you’re interested in the intersection of culture, happiness, and travel, The Geography of Bliss will leave you with a greater understanding of how different cultures approach well-being.
Conclusion
The books listed here represent the best of 2019’s offerings in travel literature, from adventurous tales and inspiring journeys to philosophical reflections and whimsical discoveries. Each of these books highlights different aspects of travel, from physical exploration to cultural immersion and personal growth. They capture the multifaceted nature of travel, proving that it’s not just about the places we visit, but also how travel shapes our perspectives, emotions, and understandings of the world.
As the world continues to evolve, these books remind us of the enduring power of travel to inspire, challenge, and transform us. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply indulging in an armchair adventure, these 2019 travel books will take you on unforgettable journeys.
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