Books to Read if You're Going to Japan

What do you think of first when someone mentions Japan? Is it Mount Fuji, the ‘Hello Kitty’ culture, manga, the food? (Hmmm, sushi, yum!) The years Japan spent closed to the world preserved its traditions and behaviours making it a very unique and interesting country. Fortunately, especially while travel is restricted, the works of many Japanese authors have been translated into other languages, making them accessible to the non-Japanese audience, and providing a fascinating window into this world. 

Books to Read if You're Going to France

One of the world’s most visited countries, the wealth of literature about life in France comes as no surprise. With so many people jotting down their take on the country, there really is something for everyone. Memoirs, tick. Historical fiction, absolutely. There’s loads of non-fiction for those wanting to learn more about France too, and foodie books, bien sur. What a pleasure for Francophiles the world over!

Books to Read if You're Going to Italy

Glorious Italy, what a country! The food, the art, architecture, scenery, and again, the food! It’s little wonder people are constantly falling for its charms. Poor Italy is probably the European country hit hardest by the Covid-19 crisis though. All the more reason to keep visits to those of a literary or imaginary nature, for now.

Books to Read if You're Going to Greece

Here we are, another week of Covid-19-induced lockdown later, and here’s another post from me containing book recommendations; this time books to get you in the mood for Greece…or perhaps you’re reminiscing? Either way, a literary feast awaits. Do you prefer fiction, memoirs,  poetry? Greece has inspired it all.

Books to Read if You're Going to Turkey

Having been a keen traveller for years, I have also been an avid reader. These two passions easily overlap as, while planning trips, I love reading about places I will visit to see if I can improve my cultural understanding and appreciation of a new place and I also enjoying revisiting, through books, places I have been. While we’re all temporarily grounded (thanks Covid-19), I thought I’d share some posts about travel literature during this period of solitude. I’m going to start with Turkey.