Books That Will Cure Your Wanderlust

As we all lock into a period of social distancing and self-isolation, the desire for quality literature is exploding. A great story can transport you to another world and create pictures in the mind that are almost as visceral and strong as being somewhere in the flesh. The idea of immersing yourself into a new destination is always appealing, especially if you are a travel lover. There are many inspiring books that can take you on the journey that isolation and lockdown have placed out of arms reach. Following are three travel-themed books that will cure your wanderlust:

1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist is one of the most popular travel-themed books in the world. It tells a story of a shepherd boy who traveled from Spain to Egypt. He follows his heart and finds the true meaning of life and the perfect way to love. The story is basically about following your dreams. When you read it, you will be able to find many quotes that will inspire you to live the life to its fullest. This book is how the world changes when you start to travel and follow your dreams. It is a simple but moving tale that is both philosophical and inspirational. The goal of reaching Egypt in the story can be interchanged with your own desires.

2. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild has a convincing and inspiring story. It takes you through the journey of Christopher Johnson McCandless who completely destroys his identity and donates all his savings before traveling through the wilderness of Alaska. He does all this just to reinvent his current self. But, to the reader’s surprise, someone in the wilderness finds his rotten corpse months later. While it has a heartbreaking story, Into the Wild is remarkably moving in its brilliant representation of nature and inspiring in the lesson that McCandless learns along the way, such as happiness is a feeling best shared. If you are a travel lover, you certainly will not be able to keep this book down.

3. Seven Years in Tibet by Heinrich Harrer
There are very few books that not only make you fall in love with a place but also move you both spiritually and intellectually. Seven Years in Tibet is one of them. It is an epic autobiographical book by Heinrich Harrer that depicts his amazing journey to Tibet, where he spent seven years immersing himself in Tibetan religion, politics, culture, and social standards. Harrer tells the story of how he went from being a mountain climber, to a World War II fugitive, to the confidant and tutor of the Dalai Lama in Tibet. Combining culture, history, and adventure, Harrer’s life will leave you intrigued and awestruck.

No matter where you are in the world, whether you are a seasoned explorer or an armchair traveler, remember that a quality travel-themed book is a literal escape that brings utter peace of mind. So, pick up a paperback (or your e-book reader) and let the adventure begin.