Our recommendations on the best books for travel to Asia
Travel to Asia is an adventure that ignites the soul and expands the mind. From the moment your feet touch the ground, you're immersed in a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that dance on the edge of the extraordinary. Picture yourself wandering through Tokyo's neon-lit streets, the hum of technology blending seamlessly with age-old traditions. Imagine trekking through the mist-shrouded rice terraces of Bali, where each step reveals a new shade of green. In China, marvel at the ancient wonder of the Great Wall as it snakes across breathtaking landscapes. Savor the fiery kick of authentic Thai street food in Bangkok, or find tranquility in the shadow of Mount Fuji. These aren't just destinations; they're gateways to experiences that will challenge your perspectives, awaken your senses, and leave an indelible mark on your heart. Asia doesn't just offer trips – it promises transformative journeys that will reshape the way you see the world and yourself.
Japan
China
Southeast Asia
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Asia
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Asia
Lonely Planet: Asia
Lonely Planet's Asia expertise kicked off with Southeast Asia on a Shoestring, the book that started it all back in '75. Tony and Maureen Wheeler's brainchild has since exploded into a treasure trove of travel guides for every type of adventurer. Whether you're after the classic guidebooks, pocket-sized city guides, or handy phrasebooks, they've got you covered. From individual countries to entire regions, Lonely Planet's got the scoop on all corners of Asia. It's like having a well-traveled sidekick in your backpack, ready to dish out advice on everything from street food to secret beaches.
The Rough Guide: Southeast Asia
Rough Guides is a killer travel guide series for Asia, known for telling it like it is. They started out as a backpacker's bible but now cover all kinds of budgets without selling out. The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget is one of their best, sticking close to their roots. It's a top pick for exploring Southeast Asia because it dishes out real talk on budget tips, cultural stuff, and hidden gems. Plus, it doesn't sugarcoat its reviews, helping you dodge tourist traps. Whether you're a Southeast Asia newbie or an old hand, this guide's got your back with its mix of straight-up advice and broad coverage.
Video Night in Kathmandu, by Pico Iyer
Video Night in Kathmandu is an excellent collection of travel essays by Pico Iyer, describing his travels through Asia in the mid-1980s. While Iyer's keen eye roams across the continent, his chapters on Nepal and Tibet stand out as literary gems, offering profound insights into these mystical lands. With razor-sharp observations and lyrical prose, Iyer dissects the complex interplay between tradition and modernity, spirituality and materialism. Though a prolific travel writer, Iyer reaches new heights in this work, crafting a narrative that transcends mere travelogue to become a poignant meditation on globalization's dawn. Iyer is a prolific travel writer, and this is in our opinion his best work. Read our full book review on Video Night in Kathmandu.
Asia: The Ultimate Cookbook
Asia: The Ultimate Cookbook offers a tasty journey through the diverse culinary landscapes of China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam, providing a unique opportunity to understand these rich cultures through cooking. This comprehensive guide features over 300 authentic yet accessible recipes that blend traditional techniques with contemporary influences, striking a perfect balance between contrasting textures and flavors. Complemented by stunning photography and insightful contributions from industry experts, the cookbook not only presents a wealth of mouthwatering dishes but also delves into the fascinating history and cultural significance behind each cuisine, allowing readers to explore the spirit and traditions that have shaped Asian gastronomy over centuries.