If single-digit temps have you setting flight alerts for anything south of Tennessee, it might be time to plan your winter getaway—or at least fantasize about it. These travel-centric books will help you do just that, all from the comfort of your couch. From a memoir about traveling the world with a stranger to a photo-packed coffee table book, here are the titles you should be reading to satisfy the travel bug this winter.
The Curious Map Book
By Ashley Baynton-Williams, $45
If you relish in the lost art of mapmaking, this hardcover book is perfect for whimsical browsing. With an extensive collection of peculiar maps—from those shaped like animals to the ones used for board games—it’s sure to spruce up your bookshelf and provide hours of fascinating material.
No Baggage: A Minimalist Tale of Love and Wandering
By Clara Bensen, $25
After writing an article titled “The craziest OKCupid date ever” for salon.com, Bensen turned her story into a memoir that chronicles her whirlwind adventure to eight countries with Jeff, a man she met through the dating site. The two barely knew each other when they embarked on a trip with no set plans or reservations. The result is funny, romantic and downright touching.
The Travels
By Marco Polo, $24
Though we’re taught not to judge books by their covers, there’s no denying that this clothbound tome is a stunner. Translated by Nigel Cliff, Marco Polo’s famous travel book details his journeys to the Middle East, India and beyond.
Ultimate Travel
By Lonely Planet, $24.99
From the Great Barrier Reef to Death Valley National Park—and 498 other notable landmarks—travel publishing empire Lonely Planet rounds up and ranks the top destinations around the world. The glossy, color-rich photos make it worthy of a spot on your coffee table, while the digestible tips make it totally practical for planning your next trip.
Humans of New York: Stories
By Brandon Stanton, $29.99
If you’ve ever read a Humans of New York post and thought to yourself, “I’d like to know more about that person,” you’ll have to get your hands on Stanton’s newest publication. New humans tell longer stories, stirring up all the feels. Read our full review here.
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