Are you itching for an adventure? Do you long to explore new places and discover your true self along the way? Look no further than these 20 best books about travel and finding yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or dreaming of your first big trip, these books will transport you to far-off lands and inspire you to embark on your own journey of self-discovery. From memoirs to travelogues, each book on travel and finding yourself will ignite your wanderlust and leave you yearning for more.
Contents
- 1 Eat, Pray, Love
- 2 Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
- 3 The Alchemist
- 4 Into the Wild
- 5 On the Road
- 6 The Motorcycle Diaries
- 7 Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback
- 8 The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World
- 9 Travels with Charley: In Search of America
- 10 The Art of Travel
- 11 A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail
- 12 The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon
- 13 The Sun Also Rises
- 14 The Beach
- 15 The Great Railway Bazaar
- 16 The Snow Leopard
- 17 The Old Patagonian Express: By Train Through the Americas
- 18 The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country
- 19 The Road to Oxiana
- 20 The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America
- 21 Conclusion
Eat, Pray, Love
by Elizabeth Gilbert
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is the ultimate wanderlust-inducing book on travel and self-discovery.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
by Cheryl Strayed
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed is not just another book on travel and finding yourself. It is a remarkable memoir that takes readers on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and transformation.
This captivating book about travel and finding yourself follows Cheryl Strayed as she embarks on a grueling 1,100-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. Filled with heart-wrenching moments, breathtaking landscapes, and raw emotions, Strayed’s story will leave you spellbound.
As you delve into this travel and finding yourself book, you will witness Strayed’s courageous attempt to heal her broken soul by immersing herself in the beauty and challenges of the wilderness. Along the way, she battles her inner demons, confronts her past mistakes, and learns to embrace the power of resilience.
With vivid descriptions and profound insights, Wild captures the essence of the human spirit and the transformative power of travel. It reminds us that sometimes we need to lose ourselves in order to truly find ourselves.
If you are seeking a travel and finding yourself book that will inspire, challenge, and move you, then Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be swept away by Cheryl Strayed’s courageous journey of self-discovery, and let her story ignite the wanderlust within you.
The Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a mesmerizing journey of self-discovery wrapped in a captivating and enchanting tale. This extraordinary book on exploration and soul-searching takes readers on a transformative voyage of self-discovery, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.
Into the Wild
by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a captivating book on wanderlust and self-discovery. This enthralling tale takes readers on a journey of adventure, exploration, and the search for meaning in the vastness of the world.
On the Road
by Jack Kerouac
On the Road by Jack Kerouac is an electrifying journey of self-discovery and wanderlust. This iconic novel, often hailed as the ultimate book on travel and finding yourself, takes readers on a wild ride through the highways and backroads of America.
Join Sal Paradise, the book’s protagonist and a restless young writer, as he embarks on a series of exhilarating road trips across the country. Through his encounters with a colorful cast of characters, Sal explores the essence of freedom, rebellion, and the quest for meaning in an ever-changing world.
In this book about travel and finding yourself, Kerouac’s writing style is as free-spirited and unbounded as the road itself. His stream-of-consciousness prose captures the raw energy and restless spirit of the Beat Generation, a group of writers and artists who rejected societal norms and sought enlightenment through experiences on the road.
With its vivid descriptions of landscapes, jazz-fueled parties, and spontaneous adventures, On the Road immerses readers in a world where every mile holds the potential for self-discovery and transformation. As you flip the pages of this travel and finding yourself book, you’ll feel the wind in your hair, the thrill of the open road, and the burning desire to explore the unknown.
So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable literary journey. On the Road is more than just a book—it’s a manifesto for those who dare to follow their own path, embrace the unknown, and discover their true selves along the way.
The Motorcycle Diaries
by Ernesto Che Guevara
The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto Che Guevara is an exhilarating and eye-opening journey of self-discovery that takes readers on an unforgettable adventure across the vast landscapes of South America. This captivating book on wanderlust and soul-searching serves as a testament to the transformative power of exploration and the profound impact it can have on an individual’s perspective.
Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback
by Robyn Davidson
Tracks is an extraordinary book on travel and finding yourself that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey across the vast and unforgiving Australian Outback. Written by Robyn Davidson, this captivating memoir is a book about travel and finding yourself that will leave you inspired and in awe of the human spirit.
In this remarkable travel and finding yourself book, Davidson recounts her courageous and daring adventure as she embarks on a solo trek spanning 1700 miles through some of the most desolate and challenging terrain on Earth. With only her loyal dog and four camels as companions, she sets off on a life-changing quest that pushes her to her physical and emotional limits.
As she traverses the vast expanse of the Outback, facing scorching heat, blistering sandstorms, and the constant threat of dangerous wildlife, Davidson not only battles the harsh elements but also confronts her own inner demons. Through her introspective and beautifully written narrative, she explores themes of solitude, self-discovery, and the transformative power of nature.
Davidson’s book on travel and finding yourself offers a unique perspective on the concept of wanderlust and the desire to disconnect from the modern world in search of something greater. Her vivid descriptions of the stunning landscapes and encounters with indigenous communities provide readers with a deep sense of place and an appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the natural world.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or simply someone in search of inspiration, Tracks is a travel and finding yourself book that will transport you to the heart of the Australian Outback and leave you pondering the infinite possibilities that lie within each of us.
The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World
by Eric Weiner
The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World by Eric Weiner is not just another book on travel and finding yourself. It is a captivating journey that explores the connection between geography and happiness.
In this extraordinary travel and self-discovery book, Weiner takes readers on a quest to uncover the secrets of happiness. He embarks on a globetrotting adventure, visiting countries known for their happiness and delving into their unique cultures and philosophies.
From the cheerful streets of Bhutan, where Gross National Happiness is a measure of success, to the serene canals of the Netherlands, where the concept of gezelligheid creates a cozy atmosphere, Weiner immerses himself in the diverse landscapes and mindsets that contribute to happiness.
But this book is not just a series of travel anecdotes. Weiner skillfully weaves in scientific research and interviews with experts in the field of positive psychology, providing a deeper understanding of what truly makes us happy.
With wit, humor, and an open mind, Weiner challenges conventional notions of happiness and invites readers to question their own definitions of the elusive emotion. Along the way, he shares his personal insights and reflections, making this book about travel and finding yourself a truly transformative experience.
The Geography of Bliss serves as a reminder that happiness is not a destination, but a journey. It reminds us that there are many paths to contentment, and that exploring different cultures and perspectives can enrich our own lives.
So, if you’re seeking a travel and self-discovery book that will not only entertain but also inspire you to rethink your own pursuit of happiness, The Geography of Bliss is an absolute must-read.
Travels with Charley: In Search of America
by John Steinbeck
Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck is not just another book on travel and finding yourself; it is an extraordinary journey of self-discovery across the vast landscapes of America.
In this captivating memoir, Steinbeck takes us on a road trip like no other. Packed with wanderlust and a desire to reconnect with the soul of his country, he embarks on a quest to explore the diverse corners of America and unravel the true essence of its people.
With his loyal companion, Charley, his trusty poodle, by his side, Steinbeck ventures into the heartland, encountering remarkable characters and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the American countryside. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene shores of the Pacific Ocean, he immerses himself in the tapestry of American life, capturing the essence of each place he visits.
But this book about travel and finding yourself goes beyond mere sightseeing. Steinbeck delves deep into the soul of America, exploring the hopes, dreams, and fears of its people. Through his encounters, he unveils profound insights about the human condition, the ever-changing face of society, and the eternal search for meaning.
With his signature prose, Steinbeck paints vivid portraits of the people he meets, from the hardworking farmers to the eccentric loners. Each encounter becomes a stepping stone in his personal odyssey, as he reflects on his own life and the state of the nation.
Travels with Charley: In Search of America is a travel and finding yourself book that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire introspection. It is a timeless tale of exploration, resilience, and the power of connecting with the world around us. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that will leave you with a renewed sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of what it means to be American.
The Art of Travel
by Alain de Botton
The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton is a captivating journey of self-discovery disguised as a book about exploring the world. Through the lens of travel, de Botton explores the profound impact that wandering, discovering, and experiencing new cultures can have on our sense of self.
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail
by Bill Bryson
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson is a captivating and insightful book about embarking on a grand adventure and ultimately discovering one’s true self. This remarkable travelogue takes readers on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Appalachian Trail, all while exploring the profound depths of self-discovery.
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon
by David Grann
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann is a captivating book on travel and finding yourself. It takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the uncharted depths of the Amazon rainforest, where one man’s obsession with discovering a lost civilization becomes a quest for self-discovery.
Grann weaves together the thrilling story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who in 1925 ventured into the heart of the Amazon in search of an ancient city, which he believed held the key to unlocking the mysteries of human civilization. Fawcett’s obsession with this lost city consumed him, driving him to abandon his family and risk his life time and time again in pursuit of his elusive goal.
As readers delve deeper into Fawcett’s harrowing adventures, they will find themselves contemplating the true meaning of exploration and the quest for knowledge. The Amazon becomes a metaphorical landscape for the human spirit, a place where one can get lost in the vastness of the unknown and ultimately find themselves.
Grann’s vivid descriptions of the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants transport readers to a world teeming with danger and beauty. He skillfully navigates the complexities of Fawcett’s character, painting a portrait of a man driven by his insatiable curiosity and hunger for discovery. Through Fawcett’s story, readers are reminded of the inherent human desire to explore and understand the world around us.
The Lost City of Z is not just a book about travel and finding yourself; it is a thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit and the lengths to which one can go in pursuit of their dreams. Grann’s meticulous research and captivating storytelling make this a must-read for anyone seeking adventure, knowledge, and a deeper understanding of themselves.
The Sun Also Rises
by Ernest Hemingway
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway is a captivating book on travel and finding yourself. Set in the 1920s, it takes readers on an extraordinary journey filled with adventure, love, and self-discovery. The story revolves around a group of expatriates who embark on a wild and hedonistic trip through Europe, seeking solace and purpose in a world still reeling from the aftermath of World War I.
This remarkable book about travel and finding yourself captures the essence of the Lost Generation, a term Hemingway coined to describe the disillusioned youth of that era. Through vivid descriptions and powerful prose, he transports readers to the bustling streets of Paris, the serene landscapes of Pamplona, and the lively cafes of Madrid.
As the characters navigate through the vibrant tapestry of European cities, they grapple with their own personal demons, seeking meaning and identity amidst a tumultuous world. Hemingway’s evocative writing style allows readers to immerse themselves in the characters’ experiences, making them feel as if they are on this travel and finding yourself book alongside them.
The Sun Also Rises is not just a tale of physical exploration; it is also a profound exploration of the human spirit. Hemingway delves deep into the complexities of love, friendship, and the search for purpose. He paints a vivid portrait of a generation struggling to find its place in a rapidly changing world.
This timeless travel and finding yourself book continues to resonate with readers today, reminding us of the universal quest for meaning and the transformative power of travel. So, embark on this literary journey and let Hemingway’s words transport you to a world where the path to self-discovery intertwines with the allure of adventure.
The Beach
by Alex Garland
The Beach by Alex Garland is an exhilarating journey of self-discovery that immerses readers in an enticing world of adventure and exploration. This captivating novel takes you on a voyage of wanderlust as the protagonist sets off in search of the ultimate paradise, a place where he can escape the trappings of society and truly find himself.
The Great Railway Bazaar
by Paul Theroux
The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux is an exhilarating book on travel and finding yourself. It takes you on an unforgettable journey across continents, through bustling cities and remote landscapes, as Theroux explores the world by train. But this isn’t just any ordinary travelogue; it’s a book about travel and finding yourself that delves deep into the human spirit.
Theroux’s writing is like a magic carpet that whisks you away to far-flung destinations, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and smells of each place. His vivid descriptions transport you to the heart of each location, allowing you to experience the joy, the chaos, and the beauty of travel and finding yourself firsthand.
But what sets The Great Railway Bazaar apart from other travel books is Theroux’s introspective approach. As he embarks on his journey, he is also on a personal quest for self-discovery. Through encounters with fascinating characters, chance encounters, and moments of solitude, Theroux uncovers profound insights about himself and the world around him.
This travel and finding yourself book is not just a collection of travel anecdotes; it’s a transformative experience. Theroux’s honest and introspective narrative forces you to confront your own desires, fears, and aspirations. It challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and embark on your own journey of self-discovery.
So, if you’re looking for a book on travel and finding yourself that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to embark on your own great adventure, The Great Railway Bazaar is the perfect choice. Get ready to lose yourself in Theroux’s mesmerizing prose and discover a world that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
The Snow Leopard
by Peter Matthiessen
The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen is a mesmerizing journey through the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, an extraordinary book on wanderlust and self-discovery. Prepare to embark on a breathtaking adventure, as Matthiessen takes you on a soul-searching expedition in search of the elusive snow leopard.
This remarkable travelogue transports you to the heart of the remote Dolpo region in Nepal, where the author and his companion set out to study the rare snow leopard. However, the expedition becomes more than just a quest for a magnificent creature. It becomes a profound exploration of the human spirit, a pilgrimage of the soul.
As you turn the pages, you will find yourself immersed in the vivid descriptions of the rugged landscapes, the vibrant cultures, and the struggles faced by the people living in this harsh environment. Matthiessen’s poetic prose effortlessly transports you to the breathtaking heights of the Himalayas, allowing you to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of these untamed mountains.
But this is not just a book about travel and finding yourself. It is a spiritual odyssey, a reflection on the meaning of existence, and a profound meditation on the impermanence of life. Through his encounters with the natural world and the people he meets along the way, Matthiessen delves deep into the depths of his own consciousness, grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
With every step, you will feel the author’s yearning for transcendence, his hunger for a deeper understanding of the world and his place within it. The Snow Leopard is a testament to the transformative power of nature and the indomitable human spirit.
So, if you are seeking a travel and finding yourself book that transcends the boundaries of the genre, The Snow Leopard is an absolute must-read. Allow Peter Matthiessen to guide you on a remarkable expedition that will leave you breathless, inspired, and forever changed.
The Old Patagonian Express: By Train Through the Americas
by Paul Theroux
The Old Patagonian Express: By Train Through the Americas is a captivating journey of self-discovery and wanderlust. In this remarkable travelogue, Paul Theroux takes us on an unforgettable expedition across the vast landscapes of the Americas, using trains as his means of transportation.
This adventurous book intricately weaves together Theroux’s personal experiences, vibrant descriptions of the places he visits, and profound reflections on life. As the author immerses himself in the pulsating rhythm of the train tracks, he embarks on a soul-searching voyage that goes far beyond mere physical movement.
From the bustling streets of New York City to the remote corners of Patagonia, Theroux’s writing effortlessly transports us to every location he encounters. His vivid prose captures the essence of each destination, allowing us to see, smell, and feel the world through his eyes. Whether he is traversing the desolate landscapes of the Andes or navigating the eclectic markets of Mexico City, Theroux’s descriptions are so evocative that we become fellow passengers on his train of thought.
Yet, The Old Patagonian Express is not solely about the external world. It is also an introspective journey, as Theroux grapples with his own identity and purpose. Through encounters with fascinating characters and moments of introspection, he reveals the profound impact of travel on personal growth. As Theroux delves into the depths of his own psyche, we are compelled to confront our own desires for exploration and self-discovery.
This unforgettable travel and self-discovery book is not just a narration of Theroux’s physical journey. It is a testament to the power of travel to transform and enlighten. It reminds us that the real journey lies within ourselves, and that sometimes, the true destination is not a place, but a newfound understanding of who we are.
The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country
by Helen Russell
The Year of Living Danishly is a captivating book about travel and finding yourself that takes readers on a journey through the enchanting land of Denmark. Author Helen Russell embarks on an adventure to uncover the secrets of the world’s happiest country and shares her experiences, insights, and discoveries with us.
Through her witty and engaging storytelling, Russell explores the Danish way of life, delving into their unique cultural practices, work-life balance, and the concept of hygge – the Danish art of coziness and contentment. As she immerses herself in the Danish culture, she discovers a different perspective on happiness and a simpler, more fulfilling way of living.
This book on travel and finding yourself is not just a mere travelogue but also a personal journey of self-discovery. Russell reflects on her own life choices and priorities, drawing inspiration from the Danish lifestyle to make positive changes in her own life. Her journey is relatable and inspiring, reminding us that happiness is not just a destination but a way of life that we can cultivate.
Whether you are a travel enthusiast or someone seeking a deeper understanding of happiness and fulfillment, this travel and finding yourself book is a must-read. Russell’s humor, curiosity, and genuine curiosity about the Danish way of life will transport you to the charming streets of Copenhagen and leave you pondering the secrets to a happier and more meaningful existence.
The Road to Oxiana
by Robert Byron
The Road to Oxiana by Robert Byron is not just another book on travel and finding yourself; it is a journey through the depths of the human soul, a pilgrimage of self-discovery that takes the reader on an adventure like no other.
This mesmerizing book about travel and finding yourself takes place in the early 1930s, when Byron embarks on a daring expedition across the Middle East. With his vivid descriptions and poetic prose, he transports the reader to a time and place where curiosity and wanderlust were the driving forces of exploration.
As you delve into the pages of this travel and finding yourself book, you will witness the author’s relentless pursuit of understanding and enlightenment. Byron’s insatiable thirst for knowledge leads him to encounter fascinating characters, unearth hidden treasures, and uncover ancient ruins that hold the secrets of civilizations long gone.
But it is not just the physical journey that captivates the reader; it is the emotional and spiritual voyage that makes this travel and finding yourself book truly extraordinary. Through his introspective musings and soul-searching reflections, Byron invites us to question our own existence and contemplate the meaning of life.
Byron’s eloquent prose paints a vivid picture of the landscapes he traverses, from the bustling bazaars of Persia to the majestic mountain ranges of Afghanistan. Through his words, the reader can almost taste the exotic spices, smell the fragrant flowers, and feel the heat of the desert sun.
This travel and finding yourself book is not just a mere collection of travel anecdotes; it is a philosophical exploration of the human condition. It is a reminder that travel is not just about reaching a destination, but about embarking on a journey of self-discovery, where every step taken reveals something new about ourselves.
So, if you are seeking a book that will transport you to faraway lands and inspire you to embark on your own quest for self-discovery, The Road to Oxiana is the perfect travel and finding yourself book for you. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and forever changed by this remarkable literary masterpiece.
The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America
by Bill Bryson
The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America by Bill Bryson is an enthralling journey through the forgotten corners of the United States. This captivating book on travel and finding yourself takes the reader on a road trip like no other, as Bryson explores the heartland of America, seeking to rediscover the essence of his own country.
Conclusion
Discovering new places and embarking on a journey of self-discovery go hand in hand. For those seeking inspiration and a little soul-searching, the world of literature offers a plethora of options. These 20 books about travel and finding yourself will transport you to far-off lands and guide you through the maze of self-exploration. From memoirs to novels, each page invites you to embark on an adventure that not only takes you to new destinations but also helps you uncover the depths of your own being. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and let these books be your companions on this transformative journey.