You don’t need to leave the comfort of your couch to get lost in faraway places

East Coast Tasmania

James Vodicka (The Rambler Co)

Closer to home, the destination on everyone’s list is Tasmania. The Rambler Co has the east coast covered from Flinders Island to Bruny Island in the second edition of its Australian Travel series. Find places to stay, from a rustic surfer’s shack on the shore of Bay of Fires to a luxury lodge in Freycinet, and get advice on where to hike, eat and explore while there. The inclusion of a beautifully illustrated guide to foraging for coastal creatures (think sea urchins and rock lobsters) ensures you’ll never go hungry.

The Slow Traveller

Jo Tinsley (Ivy Press)

The idea of travelling with intention is not new but it has certainly gained traction of late. In her new book, Tinsley encourages travellers to leave less of a footprint, to be mindful of their arrangements and to take time to savour the experience. She also imparts her wisdom on topics such as eco-travel, foraging, the benefits of rail travel and the beauty of long-distance walks. After all, if we don’t begin to traverse this planet more sustainably, one day many of these destinations won’t be worth visiting.

Cinematic Places

Sarah Baxter (White Lion Publishing)

Ever wanted to stay in the Tokyo hotel where Lost in Translation was filmed, or sing where they shot The Sound of Music in Salzburg? Travel journalist Sarah Baxter thinks the location of a film not only sets the scene but is as important to the mood of a movie as its stars. In this book, part of the Inspired Traveller’s Guide series, Baxter explores 25 destinations, from Amelie’s Paris to Rocky’s Philadelphia, and serves up plenty of fascinating filmic facts in between.

Beyond the Cobblestones in Dublin

Fiona Hilliard (Hardie Grant Explore)
The land of limericks and leprechauns is a top travel spot, to be sure. The Curious Travel Guide’s latest offering is a compendium of the best places to stay, eat and explore in Dublin, a city that’s undeniably rich in history and lore.

Ditch the tourist trail for literary landmarks, lush parks and pubs favoured by locals; get an insider’s guide to the best places to shop for home-grown knitwear, ceramics and glassware; and find carefully curated itineraries that ensure time is well spent, no matter how long the stay. (Available August 2).

Boatlife

Katharina Charpian (Gestalten)
For many people, the aim of travel is to get as close as possible to the sea. Most are lured to the coast, but for others only a boat will do. This stunning tome takes a deep dive into life on the ocean wave and the freedom (and challenges) of living on a vessel. Offering endless inspiration for maritime enthusiasts, each chapter charts an incredible journey, such as one taken by a couple who sailed from Norway to New Zealand in their 40-foot yacht, Beaver.

Wanderlust Nordics

Cam Honan (Gestalten)

This hefty tome is at once an exhaustive guide to Scandinavia’s best trails and a bounty of inspiration. From serene forests in Sweden to alpine tundra in Iceland, it will appeal to hiking diehards and enthusiastic explorers alike. With its vast landscapes and edge-of-the-Earth beauty, it’s no surprise this part of the world a top destination for many. Even if you’re more plodder than hiker, the puffin trail of Mykines in the Faroe Island is surely one for the bucket list.

Explore Australia 2024

(Hardie Grant Explore)

Fancy a holiday at home? This encyclopaedic tome has everything you need to plan and execute a trip on our vast island, including maps, tips and cheat sheets on all the popular (and some lesser known) spots. Divided into regions, whether it be the Sunshine Coast or the Pilbara there’s a focus on key attractions as well as information on events, natural landmarks and wildlife. Now in its 40th edition, consider this trusted guidebook a travel bible for caravanning, camping, road trips, quick getaways and all other Aussie-based adventures. (Available August 2)

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