There’s nothing like an intrepid traveller’s tale to give you itchy feet. Fact or fiction, some of the best novels in the world are dedicated to exploring it. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of Che Guevara or getting washed up on a desert island, one of these incredible books is sure to stir up the traveller in you before your next trip.
1. Into the Wild
One of the ultimate modern travel books, this remarkable, true story follows the adventures of Chris McCandless as he abandons all his worldly possessions to explore the furthest reaches of North America.
The tale tracks McCandless’ trip, from his decision to give up his life savings and drop out of school, to his epic kayak trip up the Colorado River and decision to enter the Alaskan wilderness to survive in the tundra.
2. Shantaram
Part truth, part artistic license, Shantaram follows the story of an escaped Australian convict as he makes his way to the sanctuary of India. The novel paints a vivid picture of life in Mumbai as the protagonist Gregory David Roberts (AKA Lin) struggles to adapt to India and its challenges.
Large parts of the book are rooted in the city’s deprived slums and the incredible desperation and poverty that surrounds them. As Lin become integrated into the community, he forms close bonds with the people around him. From the slums, to the Mumbai mafia to the wars of Afghanistan, Lin tells an incredible tale that could evoke the spirit of adventure in even the most cautious of travellers.
3. The Beach
All seasoned travellers will relate to the thrill of finding the perfect untouched destination. Whether it’s a little-known village or a secluded cove, there’s no thrill quite like discovering a hidden secret.
The Beach capitalises on this idea, as the protagonist grasps the opportunity to discover the most beautiful piece of Thailand left to be uncovered after he meets a new set of travel companions. Of course, all is not as it seems, but as the story shifts from the heart-stopping to the surreal, we’re betting you’ll be adding this beach to your next travel itinerary.
4. The Motorcycle Diaries
The trip that turned a junior Argentine doctor into one of the world’s most iconic revolutionary figures, The Motorcycle Diaries offers an insight into the mind and life of a young Ernesto Che Guevara, before the t-shirts!
On the back of his trusty steed, La Ponderosa, Che embarks on an epic trip from his home country, through Chile, Peru, Colombia and Venezuela. During his 2,800-mile journey, Che is faced with hunger, sleeping rough, a stay in a leper colony and more mechanical malfunctions that you can count – a truly fascinating insight into a fascinating mind.
5. On the Road
Jack Kerouac’s masterpiece inspired a generation to forget about the daily grind and live for the things you truly love. Before a backdrop of 1940s Beat Generation America, the protagonist Sal Paradise (based on Kerouac) explores the US with a host of poets and artists integral to the movement.
Paradise’s carefree exploits take him to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Mexico, New York, Denver and beyond. Anyone who’s ever thought about dropping everything and hitting the road should read this book with caution; you just might do it.
6. Invisible Cities
In a conversation between intrepid explorer Marco Polo and the old Mongolian emperor Kublai Khan, the reader is treated to Polo’s poetic narrative about his travels and the many cities he has visited.
Intertwined in Polo’s description of far-off lands, topics such as human nature, politics and linguistics are touched upon briefly, as the two men discuss matters relating to Khan’s empire. A literary work of art, the novel could well inspire you to make your own journal of the cities you visit.
Feeling inspired? Get in touch with us today and we’ll help you create your own epic travel story.
Why choose eShores?
One to One Service
Our experienced personal travel consultants will ensure you find the most suitable holiday, whilst taking care of every last detail. Everything from start to finish will be effortless.
100% Tailor Made
We can use any hotel, in any destination, so we will craft an itinerary to suit your exact needs. Also, as we can provide any itinerary, the only holiday we'll offer, is the one that's right for you.
Fully Protected
Our ATOL bonding provides you with the financial protection you need and as a member of the Travel Trust Association, you'll have 100% financial protection. Covering you for any eventuality.
Competitive Pricing
As a tour operator & travel agent, we'll search the market to ensure that we find you the best price. Also as an online business, we can ensure our prices are as competitive as possible.
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Angela
Have just booked with eShores for the second time. Gavin planned a three week Caribbean Island hopping trip earlier this year which was fantastic and very well organised. We decided to do the same thing again and look forward to our next trip in January. Would definitely recommend this company and use them again.
Posted 6 hours ago -
Paul
Absolutely a fab team ...Matt has been taking care of my holiday he is really so nice and helpful and responded to everything for me..
Posted 7 hours ago -
TeresaFrancina
Eshore’s are an excellent company I can’t praise them enough, especially Adam who has been amazing. He was really patient as I’m indecisive and changed my mind several times. He persevered and found us a dream holiday and put together great itinerary covering every aspect of our journey . Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances we had to cancel the trip and Adam went above and beyond to recoup as much as possible for us. It was a huge help & felt very personal as if he were a friend. We have rescheduled the holiday & will use Eshores for all future trips’
Posted 1 day ago -
DebbieAnn
Nick was helpful from start to finish, helped us with any concerns, would recommend( not been on the holiday yet but sure we won’t be disappointed)
Posted 2 days ago -
KarenBryant
Lynette has been very accommodating it meeting all of our requests and changes and also with her suggestions. Price was good too.
Posted 3 days ago -
Chuk
I had never heard of eshores till I decided to plan a multi-stop holiday in Turkey some weeks ago. The decision to use eshores was based on a quick internet search for any help I could get with this. So, i wasnt really expecting much. As the planning was at relatively short notice...and we had never travelled to Turkey, I was pleasantly surprised at the support I had from Rachel at eshores who listened to what I wanted and was patient to go back and forth with me till I had the exact holiday I wanted (Istanbul, Ankara and Antalya). I always had a response with every query(and I had quite a few!!). The travel itself worked like a dream...both international and domestic flights were straightforward, but even more surprising was how reliable the multiple taxis to and fro airports were, even when picking up at 0330!! Overall, the experience has been very positive and I would be very happy to use the service again
Posted 4 days ago -
carol
We have just booked a two centre holiday in the Caribbean through eshores. This was the first time we've used this company them and found them to be GREAT. Lynette helped us find the perfect holiday, she was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and efficient. Thank you.
Posted 6 days ago -
Stephen
To be honest, I had not used eShores before, however, after arranging our holiday plans with Michelle, I will certainly be back. Very helpful and knowledgeable and we are delighted with the advice received and all the travel arrangements, choice of hotels and flight times. Thank you so much.
Posted 6 days ago -
Michaela
Booking was great and easy with Rachael. She was polite and listened to our requirements. I am positive the experience will be a fantastic holiday in October !
Posted 1 week ago -
Carole
Just booked a two centre Caribbean holiday through eShores and Rachel was extremely helpful. She listened to our needs and nothing was too much trouble for her. Her pleasant and friendly manner made it easy to discuss our requirements and made the whole process so easy.
Posted 1 week ago