Travel Tip | Books for Soulful Travellers

On the hop or travelling long haul, it’s fun to have a great novel to read on the way, to set you in the mood. Rick Stein always recommends great reads. “The City of Falling Angels” sparked my desired to visit Venice; “True Pleasures” was another treat to boost the travel urge. Check out some suggestions below. Books provide you with a wealth information and will make your travels more enlightened.

Venice, Italy  

The City of Falling Angels by John Berendt. This novel revolves around the famous Fenice Theatre when it went up in flames in 1996. It’s a most enjoyable, enlightening read which transports you straight to Venice and provides an intriguing insight into the lives of the American and English expats residing there at the time.

Paris, France

True Pleasures: A Memoir of Women in Paris by Lucinda Holdforth is a captivating, sumptuous read. Each chapter focuses on a woman in history whose life is inextricably tied to Paris, for better or for worse. Too good to put down.

Buying a Piece of Paris: Finding a Key to the City of Love by Ellie Nielsen prepares you for the foot slogging you’ll have to do if you’re thinking about buying a property in Paris. Easy read and very entertaining.

The Coral Thief by Rebecca Stott. Highly recommended for history buffs. Travel back in time to 1815 and immerse yourself in life during post-revolutionary Paris.

Provence, France

A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. It’s a must for every Francophile, especially travellers who love the south of France. An oldie but a goodie. First published in 1989 this novel is one that you can re-read time and time again.