Best Travel Writing Reference Books of 2026

The Official Disney Parks Cookbook: 101 Magical Recipes from the Delicious Disney Vault is a collection of official Disney parks recipes that allows readers to recreate some of the best dishes from Disney theme parks and resorts in their own kitchens. The book features 101 tried-and-true recipes from across the years, including appetizers, main courses, sides, desserts, and even joyful libations that have wowed guests of the Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line ships, and Disney Vacation Club resorts. The cookbook enchants with personalized notes from the chefs who created and enhanced them, mouthwatering food photos, and helpful hints for easy preparation. Overall, this cookbook is a must-have for any Disney fan and home chef looking to add some magic to their meals.

In Look for Me There, Luke Russert embarks on a journey of self-discovery and grieving after the unexpected death of his father. Chronicling his travels across six continents, Russert shares the lessons and historical understandings he discovers along the way. A poignant reflection on taking risks, examining our choices, and discovering our truest selves, Look for Me There is a beautifully written story of a young man finding his faith and understanding his purpose. This book offers encouragement to anyone uncertain about the direction of their life or unsure of how to move forward after a loss.

The book "Destinations of a Lifetime: 225 of the World's Most Amazing Places" by National Geographic is a visual treat for travel enthusiasts. The book features stunning photographs taken by world-class photographers, showcasing both natural and man-made wonders of the world. The hard service information provided for each location, including when to go, where to eat, where to stay, and what to do, makes it a valuable reference for planning your next trip. The book's breathtaking images and practical travel information make it a must-have for armchair travelers and those looking to explore the world.

American Ramble is a captivating memoir about Neil King Jr.'s 26-day walk from Washington, D.C. to New York City. The journey takes him through historic battlefields, cemeteries, farms, and trash mounds, revealing forgotten pockets and overlooked people. King shares his personal story, making the narrative both personal and political. The writing is beautiful, and the book offers an exquisite account of personal and national renewal. American Ramble is a must-read for anyone seeking to rediscover what matters in life and see our national story with new eyes.

Rick Steves Italy for Food Lovers is a practical guide that offers readers an opportunity to indulge in the best of Italy's cuisine. The book is co-authored by Rick Steves and Fred Plotkin, who have traveled through Italy for decades, and they share their lessons with readers. The book provides food and wine specialties from the country's 20 regions and lists Rick's favorite restaurants in every area. Additionally, readers can learn how to navigate menus and decipher checks, and there is a comprehensive Italian food glossary to help them overcome language barriers. The book is full of inspiring photos and includes a foldout souvenir poster map. Overall, it is an excellent guide for food lovers who want to experience Italian cuisine to the fullest.

The Best Strangers in the World is a memoir-in-essays that takes readers around the globe to reveal the stories behind narratives that are sometimes heartwarming, sometimes heartbreaking, but always poignant. Ari Shapiro, the beloved host of NPR's All Things Considered, details his time traveling on Air Force One with President Obama, following the path of Syrian refugees fleeing war, and learning from those fighting for social justice both at home and abroad. This book is a testament to one journalist's passion for Considering All Things—and sharing what he finds with the rest of us. Overall, it is a witty, poignant, and insightful read that highlights the importance of listening and connecting with others.

Iceberg by Jennifer A. Nielsen is a thrilling tale about a young stowaway, Hazel Rothbury, onboard the Titanic. Her dream is to become a journalist, and she sees this trip as an opportunity to write and sell a story about the Titanic's maiden voyage. However, a haunting mystery and impending disaster soon find her. Nielsen weaves an extraordinary tapestry of survival and disaster in this magnificent thriller, which will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The author's use of both real and fictional characters makes the story feel authentic and wildly suspenseful. Iceberg is a page-turning historical drama that should please readers who enjoy historical fiction with heroism and a heavy sense of foreboding.

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig is a thought-provoking memoir that delves into the author's personal and philosophical journey during a summer motorcycle trip with his son. The book presents a unique blend of science, religion, and humanism, offering profound insights into how we live and how to live better. Pirsig's writing is beautiful and deeply resonant, making this classic a touching and transcendent book of life. This new edition includes an interview with Pirsig and documents detailing how the book came to be. Overall, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the complexities of existence.

Setting the Table is a bestselling book by Danny Meyer, an award-winning restauranteur, that explores the philosophy of Enlightened Hospitality. Meyer shares the lessons he learned while developing his dynamic philosophy and how it emphasizes strong in-house relationships as well as customer satisfaction, which are applicable to anyone who works in any business. The book is a treasure trove of valuable, innovative insights that are applicable to any business or organization. Overall, Setting the Table is a motivational work from one of our era's most gifted and insightful business leaders.

Let's Get Lost is a stunning collection of landscape photography that showcases some of the most remote and breathtaking locations around the world. Curated by award-winning photographer Finn Beales, this book features over 200 captivating shots that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. From rugged mountain landscapes to expansive wildernesses, the book captures the essence of adventure and natural beauty. The unique stories and little-known locations shared by the featured photographers make this book a must-have for all armchair travelers and photography enthusiasts.