italy by the book
Mark Harrison admits to being an avid reader of all things travel related and gives us a few great book recommendations (particularly in relation to Italy, his all-time favourite travel destination)…
(1) Vroom with a View and Vroom by the Sea, by Australian Peter Moore, are terrific books in regard to uncovering some of Italy’s jewels. Written with a great dose of humour and a passion for travelling through Italy by Vesper, Peter entices the traveller to see Italy from a different perspective. Both books are ‘easy reading’ and not too large to carry in a backpack.
(2) When in Rome and See Naples and Die by transplanted Australian, Penelope Green, are also easy to carry in the backpack and offer a first-hand insight into two of Italia’s greatest cities. Penelope also writes about some of her own struggles to live in a foreign country.
(3) Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes. Most people have seen the enjoyable movie but it is in essence a ‘Hollywood’ version of the book. Frances’s love for all things Italian, her passion for Italian cooking and her excellent writing style make this a must-have for any would-be traveller to Italy.
(4) Italian Joy by Carla Coulson (another transplanted Australian). A beautifully photographed and narrated book detailing Carla’s very personal journey to Florence to find excitement in her life. Might need the suitcase to carry this one!
(5) A Thousand Days in Venice, Tuscan Secrets and An Umbrian Love Story by Marlena de Blasi focus on this American lady’s tale of falling in love with a Venetian and their further travels around Italy. Exquisitely written and eminently readable.
Books for the backpack:
Click here to find other good book recommendations from Intrepid Express readers.
Tour Italy with Intrepid on trips like these great small group adventures:
Tuscany and Cinque Terre – 8 days Siena to Cinque Terre
The Italian Experience – 15 days Venice to Sorrento
