Discovering the World through Nostalgia: Must-Read Travel Books of the 1980s
If travel is your passion, then you’ve undoubtedly experienced the yearning for adventure and discovery that comes with exploring new places. There’s just something about the thrill of the unknown that gives us the desire to pack our bags and venture out into the wide open world. And if there’s anything that can enhance the joy of travel, it’s the perfect travel book.
In the 1980s, a number of authors took on the task of capturing the essence of travel through vibrant and evocative writing. Their works have become travel classics – cherished by globetrotters and armchair travelers the world over.
Let’s take a look at some of the must-read travel books of the 1980s that will transport you to new heights of wanderlust.
In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin
Bruce Chatwin’s In Patagonia is a beautifully written account of his travels through the wild and rugged landscape of Patagonia, located in the southernmost tip of South America. The book is a blend of travelogue, memoir, and anthropology, and paints a vivid picture of the landscape, its people, and their way of life. Chatwin travels through the barren windswept steppes, encounters gauchos and other colorful characters, and experiences the magic and mystery of a place that is still largely untouched by modernity.
The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen
Peter Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard is a memoir of his journey into the Himalayas in search of the rare and elusive snow leopard. The book is both a tribute to the natural world and a profound meditation on life, death, and the human condition. Matthiessen travels through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, encountering incredible scenery, deep spiritual insights, and a host of exotic flora and fauna.
Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck
Travels with Charley is a classic travelogue by the legendary American author John Steinbeck. In the book, Steinbeck recounts his journey across the United States with his dog, Charley, in a customized pickup truck called Rocinante. Steinbeck embarks on the journey to rediscover America – and himself – after years of writing in seclusion. Along the way, he meets a host of colorful characters, experiences the beauty and diversity of his homeland, and reflects on the changing face of the American dream.
Video Night in Kathmandu by Pico Iyer
Pico Iyer’s Video Night in Kathmandu is a fascinating look at the impact of global popular culture on traditional societies. Iyer travels to a number of Asian countries, including Nepal, India, and China, and explores the ways in which American movies, music, and TV shows are changing the way people live, think, and dream. The book is an eye-opening account of the clash between tradition and modernity, and a reminder of the power of culture to shape our lives.
The Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
Paul Theroux’s The Great Railway Bazaar is a classic of travel literature, chronicling his epic journey by train from London to Japan, and back again. The book is a lively and engaging account of the people, places, and cultures he encounters along the way. Theroux travels through Europe, the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia, encountering a host of memorable characters – from Russian soldiers to Thai prostitutes to Indian holy men.
In conclusion, the travel books of the 1980s offer a glimpse into a world that was both more innocent and more exotic than today. These books remind us of the joy and wonder that travel can bring, and inspire us to seek out new adventures, wherever they may be found. So grab a backpack, buckle up and take yourself on a journey of discovery – through nostalgia and time!.
