Our recommendations on the best travel books for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands
A journey through Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific offers an incredible range of experiences for adventurous travelers. In Australia, you can dive the Great Barrier Reef, watch the sunset over Uluru, and explore the vibrant culture of cities like Sydney and Melbourne. New Zealand beckons with its stunning landscapes, from the fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. Here, you can bungee jump in Queenstown or tour the Hobbiton movie set. The Pacific Islands offer a paradise of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich Polynesian culture. In Fiji, you can relax in overwater bungalows, while in Bora Bora, you can swim with gentle manta rays. Each destination provides unique wildlife encounters, from kangaroos and koalas to kiwi birds and colorful tropical fish. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a tropical getaway, this region of the world has something extraordinary to offer.
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands
Our Travel Book Recommendations - Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands
Lonely Planet
For your Australian adventure, consider Lonely Planet Australia as your guidebook of choice. For example, it can help you plan the perfect itinerary for exploring Sydney's harbor, provide insider tips for experiencing the Great Barrier Reef, or guide you to hidden waterfalls in the Daintree Rainforest. Given Lonely Planet's Australian roots—the company was founded there in 1973—their expertise on the region is unparalleled. The guide provides detailed insights on everything from bustling coastal cities to remote Outback locations, along with practical travel tips, cultural background, and up-to-date recommendations. It can assist you in finding the best local cuisine in Melbourne's laneways, navigating the vast expanses of the Red Centre, or discovering Aboriginal art in Arnhem Land. Whether you're planning to explore sun-drenched beaches or vibrant urban centers, this book equips you with the knowledge to make the most of your Australian journey. It's worth noting that Lonely Planet is also the go-to guidebook series for exploring New Zealand and the South Pacific, offering the same level of expert advice and comprehensive coverage for these nearby destinations.
The Rough Guide to New Zealand
For those traveling to New Zealand, the other guidebook to consider is by Rough Guides. This fully updated post-COVID-19 edition offers expert recommendations for every type of traveler, from adventure seekers to families. Whether you're interested in wildlife spotting, hiking, or exploring urban centers, the Rough Guide to New Zealand offers a blend of expert knowledge and local insights to ensure an unforgettable experience in this diverse and beautiful country. Some of the best travel experiences include hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a dramatic volcanic landscape in the North Island; exploring the stunning Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park; witnessing the geothermal wonders of Rotorua; stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve in Lake Tekapo; visiting the vibrant city of Wellington, known for its cultural scene and culinary delights; and immersing yourself in Maori culture at a traditional marae stay. For adrenaline junkies, Queenstown offers bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, while wine enthusiasts can indulge in world-class vintages in the Marlborough region.
In a Sunburned Country, by Bill Bryson
In a Sunburned Country is Bill Bryson's hilarious romp through Australia. With his trademark wit, Bryson takes readers on a wild ride across the continent's vast landscape. From dodging box jellyfish in the Great Barrier Reef to getting lost in the scorching Outback, he uncovers the charm and hidden dangers of this fascinating land. Bryson's self-deprecating humor shines as he attempts to decipher Aussie slang in a rowdy pub or narrowly avoids a close encounter with a saltwater crocodile. His adventures, whether facing off with a curious kangaroo or pondering the mysteries of Uluru, will leave you laughing, learning, and longing to experience the sunburned country for yourself. Click here to read our full book review.
Getting Stoned with Savages, by J. Maarten Troost
Getting Stoned with Savages is the hilarious and eye-opening tale of J. Maarten Troost's adventurous relocation with his wife from the comforts of California to the wild and unpredictable South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. Troost quickly discovers that "paradise" comes with its own unique set of challenges, from battling gigantic insects that seem to have emerged from prehistoric times to weathering storms that threaten to blow his newfound home right off the map. In his quest to integrate with the locals, he stumbles upon the perfect solution: drinking copious amounts of kava, the powerful (and occasionally hallucinogenic) local intoxicant that turns out to be both a blessing and a curse. Just as Troost thinks he's mastered island life, he's faced with an even more daunting adventure - impending fatherhood in a place where the concept of "child-proofing" is as foreign as reliable electricity. Troost's sarcastic wit and keen observations make this book a standout, solidifying his position as a formidable new voice in travel writing.
The Happy Isles of Oceania, by Paul Theroux
One of the most captivating travel books on the Pacific Islands emerges from the pen of legendary travel writer Paul Theroux. The Happy Isles of Oceania: Paddling the Pacific is his mesmerizing account of a long journey of self-discovery he undertook to heal from the wreckage of his first marriage. Theroux, with his signature wit and keen observational skills, mainly traversed the azure waters by kayak, literally paddling from one sun-drenched island to another. His vivid descriptions transport readers to pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant local communities, offering a unique perspective on this paradisiacal region.