Traveling—no matter where your destination of choice may be—is undoubtedly a great way to take in a new city and enjoy an unforgettable experience. From exploring the culture and tasting authentic foods, to seeing new sights and meeting different people, there’s almost always plenty to do to keep you busy for the entirety of your trip.
But within those activities comes downtime: waiting for a flight, relaxing on the beach, winding down in bed after a busy day, etc. Make your downtime just as enjoyable as the exciting adventures you have planned for your trip by being in the company of a good book while you wait or relax. Here are our nine favorite pieces of literature, suitable for any type of vacation, any time of year:
1. The Life of Pi by Yann Martel
This action-filled novel—which is based on a true story—is a great read for any occasion, but especially for a getaway that’s packed with adventures of your own! Let your imagination run wild reading this incredible tale of how a boy survives being stranded in the middle of the ocean with no food, no clean water… and an untrained Bengal tiger.
2. Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Arguably one of the most incredible and powerful memoirs to date, this story offers an inspiring message of loss and healing, as experienced through the eyes of a 22-year-old woman journeying on a 1,100-mile hike—solo. Faced with challenges at every corner, including battling off wildlife, surviving unbearable weather conditions, and sheer fear and loneliness, this young woman finds inner strength and healing when all odds seem to be against her.
3. The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
If you’re looking forward to finding the very best in everything you encounter on your next trip, this book will help you stay true to that mentality. The Happiness Project is a reminder for any reader that happiness can be achieved in everything you do, and appreciating the things that make you happy is essential to staying that way.
4. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
For an easy read, this novel is a classic that never goes out of style. Although technically classified as a children’s book, it’s great literature for many ages—especially those who are yearning to escape to a fantasy world packed with adventure, treasure, dragons, goblins and more. Because it’s written for a younger audience, it’s an easy read for places that tend to be a bit noisier or for when you don’t have as much time to dedicate to reading, such as airports, trains, coffee shops, etc.
5. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Another inspiring story of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment, this novel is an ideal pair for a liberating experience of your own. Embark on your journey alongside a once-broken woman in this amazing story to discover inner renewal and newfound self-worth.
6. A Sense of the World by Jason Roberts
For history buffs and adventure seekers alike, A Sense of the World is a must-read while traveling. This mesmerizing biography tells the seemingly impossible story of James Holman—a blind man—who traveled the world by himself to become one of history’s greatest travelers.
7. The Size of the World: Once Around Without Leaving the Ground by Jeff Greenwald
This adventure-filled novel tells of the amazing stories created when a man in his late thirties sets out to travel around the world without leaving its surface. Anyone who appreciates the decision to trade air travel for discovering hidden gems on land will love this man’s remarkable odyssey and unbelievable stories.
8. Almost French: Love and a New Life in Paris by Sarah Turnbull
For classic romantics, this novel is a great choice for a beautiful love story created in the City of Light. It shares the challenging experience of embracing a new culture, new language and new life in a foreign country, yet is filled with moments of wit, fun and romance. This page-turner is a romantic must-have for traveling!
9. What I Eat: Around the World in 80 Diets by Peter Menzel and Faith D’aluisio
Perfect for traveling foodies, this thoughtfully crafted book combines gorgeous photos of dishes from around the globe with insightful writing about food politics and food culture. It’s a must-read for those looking to try new flavors in new environments!
No matter where or when your trip takes place, these nine books are great for reading during any getaway—long or short. Find more helpful resources for your next getaway from E-Z Rent-A-Car online, such as E-Z Rent-A-Car coupons, blog posts and more.
