Best Travel Books December 2024

The Noble Hustle

Colson Whitehead’s “The Noble Hustle” is a hilarious and insightful journey into the world of high-stakes poker. As a self-proclaimed “amateur” with a “morose demeanor,” Whitehead chronicles his unlikely adventure at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. His dry wit and keen observations bring the colorful characters and tense atmosphere to life, while offering a deeply personal reflection on the nature of risk, luck, and human nature. It’s a must-read for poker enthusiasts and literary fans alike.

Four Seasons in Rome

Doerr’s enchanting memoir transports readers to the Eternal City, where he spent a year with his wife and newborn twins. With lyrical prose and keen observations, he captures the essence of Roman life – from the aroma of fresh espresso to the grandeur of ancient ruins. Doerr’s reflections on parenthood, art, and history intertwine seamlessly, creating a vivid tapestry of his Roman adventure. His infectious curiosity and wonder make this book a delightful journey through Italy’s captivating capital.

Paris for One

Nell’s carefully planned weekend getaway to Paris crumbles when her boyfriend fails to show. Stranded alone in the City of Light, she reluctantly embraces the unexpected. As she wanders cobblestone streets and charming cafés, Nell discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. A chance encounter with a handsome Frenchman sparks a whirlwind romance, challenging her notions of love and adventure. Moyes weaves a delightful tale of self-discovery, reminding us that sometimes the best journeys are the ones we never planned.

The 4-Hour Workweek

Forget the old concept of retirement and the rest of the deferred-life plan–there is no need to wait and every reason not to. Whether your dream is escaping the rat race, experiencing high-end world travel, or earning a monthly five-figure income with zero management, The 4-Hour Workweek is the blueprint. This step-by-step guide to luxury lifestyle design teaches how Tim went from $40,000 per year and 80 hours per week to $40,000 per month and 4 hours per week. It’s not about working harder, it’s about working smarter. I couldn’t put it down.

In a Sunburned Country

G’day, mate! Join Bill Bryson on a hilarious romp through the Land Down Under. From deadly creatures to quirky locals, Bryson’s wit shines as he explores Australia’s vast outback and bustling cities. His keen observations and self-deprecating humor will have you chuckling while learning fascinating tidbits about this sunburned country. Warning: May cause uncontrollable wanderlust and a sudden craving for Vegemite sandwiches. Pack your sunnies and let’s go walkabout!

A Walk in the Woods

Bryson’s hilarious account of hiking the Appalachian Trail is a journey of self-discovery and natural wonder. With his trademark wit, he recounts the challenges and joys of trekking through the wilderness, from encounters with bears to quirky trail companions. As someone who’s dreamed of tackling the AT myself, I found his honest portrayal both inspiring and cautionary. Bryson’s keen observations and dry humor make this more than just a travelogue—it’s a meditation on America’s relationship with nature and the enduring allure of the great outdoors.

Under the Tuscan Sun

Enchanting and evocative, “Under the Tuscan Sun” is Frances Mayes’ love letter to Italy. With lyrical prose, she recounts her journey of purchasing and restoring an abandoned villa in the Tuscan countryside. Mayes paints a vivid picture of sun-drenched landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and the warmth of Italian culture. Her personal reflections and keen observations transport readers to a world of simple pleasures and la dolce vita. A delightful blend of memoir, travel writing, and culinary adventure that will leave you yearning for your own Tuscan escape.

Eat, Pray, Love

Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love” is a soul-stirring journey of self-discovery that resonated deeply with me. Following a painful divorce, Gilbert embarks on a year-long quest across Italy, India, and Indonesia, seeking pleasure, spirituality, and balance. Her candid, often humorous writing style makes you feel like you’re right there with her, savoring pasta in Rome, meditating in an ashram, and finding love in Bali. It’s a reminder that sometimes, we need to lose ourselves to truly find our way back home.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Embark on a thrilling adventure with Jules Verne’s timeless classic, “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” I was captivated by the eccentric Professor Lidenbrock and his reluctant nephew Axel as they decipher an ancient manuscript and set off on an impossible quest. Verne’s vivid imagination brings to life a subterranean world of prehistoric creatures and natural wonders. The tension builds with each step deeper into the Earth’s core, leaving me breathless. A perfect blend of science and fantasy that still ignites the explorer in me.

Circling the Sun

Beryl Markham’s unconventional upbringing in colonial Kenya shaped her into a fierce and fearless aviator. McLain’s vivid prose transports readers to 1920s Africa, where Beryl navigates love, loss, and societal expectations. As she pursues her passion for flying, we witness her determination to break barriers in a male-dominated world. This captivating tale of adventure and self-discovery left me pondering the courage it takes to forge one’s own path, especially as a woman in a time of rigid social norms.