Book lovers will find inspiration in the pages of these famous travel stories. Work your way around the world with our list below as you picture yourself hiking a mountain in North America, solving a mystery in Rome, or exploring the far edges of the globe. 

Wild by Cheryl Strayed

This New York Times best-seller follows the author’s journey of self-discovery as she hikes the 1,100-mile Pacific Crest Trail. Also later turned into a movie, Wild has inspired travelers to both explore this area of the United States, as well as set out their own journeys to find themselves. 

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Follow Santiago, a Shepard from Andalusia, who sets off on a journey to find treasure in Egypt. This novel will bring readers on Santiago’s quest with thrilling adventures and exciting characters. You will feel the need to find your own treasure when the book is done. 

On the Road by Jack Kerouac

This classic American novel follows author Jack Kerouac on his journey across the United States in the late 1950s. American culture oozes from the pages, as you dream of road tripping across this great and vast country. 

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan

Another best-selling novel turned Movie, Crazy Rich Asians is a book about family, romance, and culture. Set in exuberant wealth highlighting Singapore’s richest family, protagonist Rachel learns that her classic American immigrant upbringing is no match for boyfriend Nick’s famous family. Singapore is a beautiful country and makes a dreamy setting for this romantic comedy. 

In A Sunburned Country (Down Under) by Bill Bryson

Styled as a travel log, this book by Bryson details his journey across Australia. He meets people from all over during this car and train adventure he embarks on. The book discusses Bryson’s learned knowledge of varying aspects about geography, the earth, and culture. Novel readers will enjoy the tone and humor that goes into Bryson writing. In A Sunburned Country will have you planning your own journey across Australia. 

World Walk by Steven M. Newman

Ever thought about walking around the earth? Well this book may just give you the inspiration that you need. Follow Newman as he covers five continents, twenty countries, and fifteen thousand miles as he literally walks the earth. A travel book through the eyes of someone yearning to see the world in a different way will give you great ideas about your next vacation.

Gorillas in the Mist by Dian Fossey

Dr. Fossey, an Ethology and Primatology expert spent time with four gorilla families in Rwanda, detailing their way of life. Gorilla excursions have become popular for ethical animal lovers in Rwanda, and this book will inspire your next must experience travel destination. 

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

For historical fiction lovers, Golden’s book-turned-movie explains the fictional tale of the life of a geisha. Through first person perspective, of a young geisha working in Kyoto, Japan through the second World War, you will experience true Japanese tradition and culture through these pages. 

Angels and Demons by Dan Brown

Follow Dr. Robert Langdon on this fictional adventure through Rome as he tries to solve a mystery involving the Catholic Church, Popes, Cardinals, Renaissance era works of art, and conspiracy theories all while visiting the best monuments and museums that Rome has to offer. This book will have you solving mysteries alongside Langdon while simultaneously planning your next Roman holiday. 

Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans

This classic children’s book is the first in a series about a small redheaded girl living at a boarding school in Pariswho goes on adventures all around the city of lights. Madeleine is a book about courage, overcoming obstacles, all while set in the gorgeous backdrop of Paris. This is a great book for the whole family to learn life lessons and talk about visiting France. 

Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams

Another New York Times Best Seller that follows author Mark Adams on his journey to recreate the original expedition to Machu Picchu. As an adventure writer who has never had much adventures of his own, Adams journey brings about a crew of colorful guides, as well as imagery that pops off the page and brings readers into the most beautiful setting of Peru. 

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Amber Zakem

Amber Zakem has worked in the travel industry since 2014. Although, her love of travel began far before that. Amber grew up visiting cousins stationed throughout Europe and worked as an Au Pair in Germany for a year between High School and College. She started working at a local travel agency in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, after graduating from Central Michigan University. Amber began working for MAST Travel Network in 2016 and is the Social Media Specialist. She runs the MAST Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Snapchat and she teaches twice monthly webinars to travel agents on using social media to promote travel. Amber has continued her passion for travel and social media by also teaching a course at Moraine Valley Community College in their Hospitality program.