We don't always read travel books. But when we do, we like to share them here!

This page is updated regularly. Visit often to see the latest content.

Why read travel books?

• Cultural Context

• Historical Depth

• Emotional readiness

• Ease-of-movement

• Exploring meaning

• Informed decision making

See beyond the obvious from day one.

What you'll find here:

• Insight over reputation

• Recommendations organized by what they unlock (place, culture, mindset)

• Who each book is for

• Relational notes— which books build on each other

• Other selected text-heavy articles, websites, apps

Understanding every detail of your upcoming trip is like stepping into a time machine.

Listed travel books and content by category

BY PURPOSE

TRAVEL GUIDES 

1. Every Rick Steves Guidebook!

Genre: Travel Guides

Destinations: Europe

Travel Style: Flexible Independent Travel, Touring

Why Read Before (and While Traveling):

These books are Life Changing and will transform your travel experiences. For many European destinations, these books will greatly enhance your trips. These well-curated guidebooks check off everything under "Why read travel books?"

For several of our European getaways, my groups have found these books indispensable. I can't wait to talk about many of the insights we've taken away from them, but certainly I do think you will benefit from reading and traveling with some of them for yourself. I will be adding some stories and insights we've had while traveling with these books. [[Add Updates Here]]

Just holding these books in your hands while away in Europe gets you discounts, elicits pleasant words and conversation starters, guides you to great tourist locations and helps you find other English-speaking tourists.

Rick Steves adds so much personality and fun to his travel guides. These books are filled with personal anecdotes, wry assessments and commentaries, and really are some of the best of what travel journalism has to offer. 

Descriptive Tags: Europe, Budget, Independent, Planning, Itineraries, Maps, Culture, History, Context, Museums, Landmarks, Locations, Cuisine, Dining, Hotels, Lodging, Hostels, Etiquette, Customs, Language, Phrases, Safety, Crowds, Daytrips, Highlights, Strategy