1. Marco Polo

Marco Polo, an Italian merchant and explorer from the 13th century, is considered one of the greatest travel writers of all time. He was born in the city of Venice in 1254 and embarked on a remarkable journey that would take him all the way to the distant lands of Asia.

Early Life and Travels

Marco Polo was born into a family of merchants, and his early life revolved around commerce. At the tender age of 17, he embarked on a groundbreaking journey alongside his father and uncle. Their voyage would last for 24 years and take them across the vast expanse of Asia, introducing them to new cultures, landscapes, and experiences.

Travels in Asia

During his travels in Asia, Marco Polo visited several fascinating destinations that were virtually unknown to the Western world at the time. He explored China, Mongolia, India, and many other countries, documenting his observations and encounters along the way. His detailed accounts of the Silk Road and the opulence of the court of Kublai Khan captivated readers and helped nurture an interest in the wonders of the East.

Publication of ‘Il Milione’

Marco Polo’s most famous work, ‘Il Milione’ (also known as ‘The Travels of Marco Polo’ or ‘The Description of the World’), chronicles his epic journey and the marvels he witnessed. This book, compiled during his imprisonment following a war between Venice and Genoa, became a literary sensation and transformed the way Europeans viewed the world beyond their borders. It inspired future explorers and opened up a new era of travel literature. Check his book, The Travels of Marco Polo.

2. Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway, renowned for his powerful storytelling and adventurous spirit, is considered one of the most influential travel writers of the 20th century. His unique writing style, characterized by concise and evocative prose, captured the essence of the places he visited and left a lasting impact on the genre of travel literature.

Influential Travel Writing

Hemingway’s travel writing was heavily influenced by his own experiences as a journalist and expatriate. He often drew upon his time spent in Europe and Africa to craft gripping narratives that transported readers to distant and mesmerizing locations. His ability to capture the sights, sounds, and emotions of a place made his travel writing captivating and immersive.

Spanish Civil War and ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’

One of Hemingway’s most celebrated works, ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls,’ showcased his deep understanding of Spain and its tumultuous history. Based on his experience as a war correspondent during the Spanish Civil War, the novel weaves together a compelling tale set amidst the rugged beauty of the Spanish countryside. Hemingway’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and his exploration of the human condition resonated deeply with readers.

The Old Man and the Sea

In ‘The Old Man and the Sea,’ Hemingway transported readers to the serene waters of the Caribbean. This novella, which garnered him the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of a place and its people. Through the story of an aging fisherman’s struggle with a marlin, Hemingway conveys the beauty and raw power of the sea, leaving a profound impact on readers and solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller.

3. Paul Theroux

Paul Theroux, a celebrated American travel writer, has spent a significant portion of his life exploring the globe and crafting remarkable literary works. His extensive travels and keen observations have led to the creation of compelling narratives that delve deep into the essence of a place and its people.

Extensive Travel and Literary Works

Paul Theroux’s wanderlust has taken him to countless destinations, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the remote corners of Africa, South America, and Asia. His literary works reflect his extensive travels, demonstrating a remarkable ability to capture the essence of each location and provide readers with a profound understanding of the world.

The Great Railway Bazaar

In ‘The Great Railway Bazaar,’ Theroux takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the railways of Asia. Through vivid descriptions and well-crafted anecdotes, he brings to life the sights, sounds, and peculiarities of train travel in this vast continent. This book became a classic in the genre, showcasing Theroux’s ability to connect with people along the way and capture the essence of their cultures.

Dark Star Safari

Another notable work by Theroux is ‘Dark Star Safari,’ which chronicles his overland journey from Cairo to Cape Town. This transformative adventure traverses diverse landscapes, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and beauty of Africa. Theroux’s honest and introspective narrative provides readers with an intimate portrayal of the people he encounters and the issues they face, making ‘Dark Star Safari’ a must-read for any travel enthusiast.

4. Bruce Chatwin

Bruce Chatwin, an English travel writer and novelist, is revered for his unique narratives that blend fiction, memoir, and travelogue. His works take readers on extraordinary journeys, both physical and emotional, with a focus on the intersection of culture, history, and personal experiences.

Unique Narratives

Chatwin’s travel writing often transcends the traditional boundaries of the genre, blending factual details with imaginative storytelling. By weaving together different threads of narrative, he creates a rich tapestry that captures the essence of a place in a compelling and thought-provoking way. Chatwin’s unique approach to travel writing set him apart as one of the most innovative and influential writers of his time.

In Patagonia

‘In Patagonia,’ Chatwin’s debut travel book, remains one of his most iconic works. This exploration of the remote and mythical region at the southern tip of South America combines personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and vivid descriptions to create a multi-layered narrative. Chatwin’s poetic prose and attention to detail transport readers to the barren yet captivating landscapes of Patagonia, captivating their imagination.

The Songlines

‘The Songlines‘ showcases Chatwin’s fascination with the intersection of culture, identity, and geography. In this groundbreaking work, he delves into the nomadic lifestyle of the Aboriginal people of Australia, exploring their mythologies and the significance of the songlines – paths that follow ancient creation stories. Through this exploration, Chatwin provides readers with a captivating glimpse into the profound connection between landscape, identity, and tradition.

5. Jan Morris

Jan Morris is a groundbreaking writer and historian whose travel writing is infused with her unique perspective as a transgender woman. Her evocative narratives and deep historical insights contribute to a powerful exploration of the places she visits, making her one of the most celebrated travel writers of the modern era.

Transgender Travel Writer and Historian

Jan Morris’s transition from James Morris, an acclaimed journalist, to Jan Morris, an openly transgender woman, brought a unique perspective to her travel writing. This transition coincided with her prolific career as a travel writer, adding layers of introspection and personal experience to her narratives. Morris’s ability to convey her emotions and reflections on identity allowed readers to connect with her writing on a profoundly human level.

Venice

Morris’s fascination with Venice is evident in her book ‘Venice,’ where she delves deep into the history, architecture, and cultural tapestry of the city. Through vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, she captures the essence of this unique place and conveys her love for its people and traditions. ‘Venice’ is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and insightful books ever written about the iconic Italian city.

Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere

In ‘Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere,’ Morris explores the complex history and identity of the enigmatic city of Trieste. As a former hub of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the city’s intricate blend of cultures and influences fascinated Morris. Through her exploration, she examines the concept of belonging and delves into the universal search for meaning and identity. Morris’s introspective and contemplative approach to travel writing makes ‘Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere’ a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.

6. Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson, an American-born writer, has captivated readers with his humorous and insightful travel narratives. With a unique ability to find fascination in the mundane and bring a lighthearted tone to his writing, Bryson has become one of the most beloved travel writers of our time.

Humorous Travel Narratives

Bryson’s travel writing is characterized by his witty observations and self-deprecating humor. Through his sharp and often hilarious anecdotes, he invites readers to join him on his journeys and discover the peculiarities of the world. Bryson’s ability to find joy and humor even in the most trivial of situations makes his books both entertaining and enlightening.

Notes from a Small Island

‘Notes from a Small Island‘ is Bryson’s humorous exploration of his adopted home, Great Britain. As an American expatriate living in Britain, Bryson provides a fresh and often comical perspective on the country’s quirks and traditions. His witty observations and genuine love for his surroundings make this book an enjoyable read for both British and international readers alike.

A Walk in the Woods

In ‘A Walk in the Woods,’ Bryson takes readers on a journey along the Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile hiking route that stretches from Georgia to Maine. With his trademark humor, Bryson recounts his attempt to conquer this challenging trail while sharing fascinating tales of the history, ecology, and characters encountered along the way. ‘A Walk in the Woods’ is an engaging blend of adventure and humor that inspires both laughter and a sense of wanderlust.

7. Freya Stark

Freya Stark, a pioneering female travel writer from the 20th century, defied societal norms and embarked on daring journeys to remote and inhospitable regions. Her writings captured the imagination of readers and inspired a generation of women to explore the world beyond their comfort zones.

Pioneering Female Travel Writer

In an era when women’s exploration was often seen as unconventional or inappropriate, Freya Stark fearlessly defied societal expectations to embark on daring expeditions. She explored places such as the Middle East, Arabia, and Tibet, leaving behind a trail of captivating travel writings. Stark’s courage and determination shattered gender barriers in the travel writing industry, paving the way for future generations of female adventurers and writers.

Baghdad Sketches

‘Baghdad Sketches‘ is a collection of Stark’s early writings, capturing her experiences in the vibrant Iraqi city during the 1920s. Through her evocative prose, she provides readers with a vivid glimpse into the cultural, historical, and social intricacies of Baghdad. Stark’s ability to immerse herself in the local culture and convey it to readers with such clarity and sensitivity makes ‘Baghdad Sketches’ a must-read for those fascinated by the region.

The Southern Gates of Arabia

One of Stark’s most acclaimed works, ‘The Southern Gates of Arabia,’ showcases her fearless exploration of the Arabian Peninsula. Through her vivid descriptions and encounters with local tribes, she unveils the secrets of this ancient land. Stark’s determination to immerse herself in the local culture and overcome the challenges of the harsh environment captivated readers, inspiring a sense of wonder and adventure.

8. Isabella Bird

Isabella Bird, a Victorian-era traveler and writer, defied societal expectations by exploring remote corners of the world at a time when women’s travel was considered unconventional. With a thirst for adventure and an insatiable curiosity, Bird’s writings opened up new worlds for readers and challenged traditional gender roles.

Adventurous Explorer

Isabella Bird’s traveling spirit led her to explore some of the most inhospitable and isolated regions of the world during the late 19th century. From traversing the Rocky Mountains to venturing through the untrodden paths of Japan, Bird fearlessly embraced the challenges and dangers of exploration. Her tenacity and independence inspired countless women to break free from societal norms and embark on their own journeys.

A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains

‘A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains‘ provides readers with a fascinating account of Bird’s six-month journey through the untamed wilderness of the American West. This book, filled with her personal reflections and enchanting descriptions, evokes a sense of wonder and admiration for the vast landscapes she encountered. Bird’s willingness to adopt the local ways of life and connect with the people she encountered showcases her incredible resilience and her ability to immerse herself in the environments she explored.

Unbeaten Tracks in Japan

In ‘Unbeaten Tracks in Japan,’ Bird recounts her adventures across the diverse landscapes of Japan during a time when the country was still largely inaccessible to outsiders. Her vivid descriptions of the people, customs, and natural wonders she encounters provide readers with a unique perspective on Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Bird’s willingness to challenge societal norms and journey into the unknown paved the way for future explorers and made ‘Unbeaten Tracks in Japan’ a timeless classic in travel literature.

9. Pico Iyer

Pico Iyer, an acclaimed British-born travel writer of Indian descent, offers a contemplative and introspective approach to travel writing. With his finely crafted prose, Iyer invites readers to explore not only the places he visits but also the deeper layers of meaning and introspection inherent in the act of travel.

Thoughtful Travel Essays

Iyer’s travel writing transcends the boundaries of mere description and observation. Instead, he navigates the realm of introspection and explores the profound impact of travel on the human experience. His thoughtful and contemplative essays delve into the intersections of culture, spirituality, and identity, inviting readers on a journey of self-discovery.

Video Night in Kathmandu

In ‘Video Night in Kathmandu,’ Iyer presents a collection of essays that delve into the complexities of globalization and cultural identity. Through his exploration of various Asian countries, he examines the influence of Western media on traditional cultures and the clash between tradition and modernity. Iyer’s insightful observations and deeply introspective style challenge readers to reflect on the consequences of a rapidly changing world.

The Global Soul

‘The Global Soul‘ delves into the concept of home and identity in an age of globalization. Iyer explores the lives of global nomads and their quest for a sense of belonging amidst constant movement. Through his lyrical prose and personal anecdotes, he captures the transient nature of modern life and invites readers to reflect on their own place in a rapidly changing world. ‘The Global Soul’ is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition in a globalized society.

10. Ryszard Kapuściński

Ryszard Kapuściński, a Polish journalist and travel writer, excelled in combining journalism with literature. Known for his immersive and intimate style, Kapuściński’s works offer a deeply personal perspective on the places he traveled to and the people he encountered.

Intrepid Journalist and Travel Writer

Working as a foreign correspondent, Ryszard Kapuściński traveled extensively to some of the most tumultuous regions of the world. His firsthand experiences of political upheaval and social change allowed him to offer a unique perspective on the countries he visited. Kapuściński’s works bridge the gap between journalism and literature, blending factual reporting with poetic prose.

The Emperor

‘The Emperor‘ is Kapuściński’s seminal work, chronicling his experiences in Ethiopia during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie. Through Kapuściński’s keen observations and skillful storytelling, readers gain insight into the complexities of power and politics in Africa. This book captures the essence of an era and provides an intimate portrait of a dictator and the people affected by his rule.

Travels with Herodotus

‘Travels with Herodotus‘ intertwines Kapuściński’s own travel stories with the historical accounts of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus. Blurring the boundaries between past and present, Kapuściński reflects on the parallels between their journeys and explores the timeless nature of human experiences. ‘Travels with Herodotus’ is a fascinating blend of travelogue, history, and introspection that showcases Kapuściński’s mastery of the genre.

In conclusion, the ten travel writers mentioned above have left an indelible mark on the genre of travel literature. From Marco Polo’s groundbreaking accounts of his epic journey to Isabella Bird defying societal norms and exploring remote regions, each writer has contributed unique perspectives, captivating narratives, and profound insights into the human condition. Through their words, they continue to inspire and ignite the wanderlust within us all.

For your inspiration:

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I am originally from Boston, and these days my home base is split between Bangkok, Boston, and Chicago, with a bit of Yerevan mixed in.  

Tell our readers a few words about you. Where are you from?  When and how did you get the passion for travel?

I went to Hong Kong in high school with my parents on vacation. It is an amazing city. Seeing that amazing skyline opened my eyes.  

Which was the first country you traveled and did you remember any impression from it?

While it was technically not the first country I had traveled to, Hong Kong really made an impact. (I had been to the Caribbean with my parents, but that was just hanging out on the beach.) I went to HK with my parents, rode the Star Ferry, took the tram to Victoria Peak, and marveled at the skyline from Kowloon. This trip motivated me to move to HK after college, and I lived in HK for several months.  

What is your plan regarding visiting all the countries in the world? How many so far, and how many remain?

I am 142/193 and have been stuck on that number since March 2020. I plan to start visiting new countries in the fall of 2021 with a trip to Eastern Africa. I plan to see regions of countries I miss, such as another trip to West Africa in 2022 that was canceled mid-trip because of Covid.  

Your website, Globalgaz, has plenty of information regarding the places you visited. Do you focus more on the classical touristic part or the off-the-beaten-path zone? Why?

I like to visit them all, but I will most of the time write more about off-the-beaten-path travel. 

While Amsterdam is a fantastic city that needs to be visited, there are thousands of posts on what to see there. 

On the other hand, there is much less content on Mauritania, for instance, so I can add some value by sharing my experience there.  

How do you choose the following country you want to visit? Do you have a plan or a map on the wall and a pair of darts?

I have about 50 countries left, some of which are grouped into regions. So, for instance, there is a festival in Chad this October. The Guérewol Festival looks amazing, so I made this the anchor of my trip, and then I am building around it, looking at nearby countries that I have still not been to, like Libya and Sudan. I maintain a map on GlobalGaz, my website. My Map – GlobalGaz – I always enjoy updating it after a trip.

How do you travel? Sponsorships, deals, your own money, etc. And where do you stay – budget, luxury, medium?

It is all over the place. So, for instance, I have worked with great companies like G Adventures and Untamed Borders (which specializes in Afghanistan), but mostly I pay for my own trips. For hotels, I run the gamut … whether it is a $20 guest house or sometimes using points to stay for free in the Maldives.  

Do you get a living from travel, or do you have another job?

The vast majority of my income comes from my real estate investing business. I earn money from sponsored links, affiliate commissions, or from selling my films or books on my blog. As I mentioned, I also partner with tour providers who provide their trips in return for me marketing their companies like I did in the Aral Sea or visiting the Fukushima Disaster Area.  

Tell me your top 3 favorite countries you’ve been and please explain your choices.

Uzbekistan. Truly a fantastic country and a great introduction to Central Asia. Uzbekistan has lowered the barrier to visiting here – making the visa easy to get, introducing ATMs, and getting rid of some Soviet rules and regulations. If you are interested in seeing the Silk Road, there are no better places to visit than the historic Bukhara and Samarkand. It is easy to imagine being back in time several centuries ago. And you can check out the country’s far east and visit the Aral Sea, one of the world’s largest ecological disasters but rarely visited.

Thailand. This country is popular for a reason. Bangkok is a truly international city with East and West, old and new. There is genuinely so much to explore here. I spent a year straight in Thailand during Covid. I could visit several additional places I had never had time to see before, like the rural Isan area, mountainous Nan in the north, or the amazing Phuket Vegetarian Festival. And, of course, there are the islands. There are famous ones like Phuket and Koh Samui and so many others that are much quieter, like Koh Mak or Koh Kood. The latter islands are more undeveloped, like I imagine Thailand was 20 or 30 years ago. 

Myanmar. Myanmar or Burma is Thailand’s western neighbor, and I have been fortunate to have had multiple visits over the last 15 years. Myanmar has some of the most amazing temples I have seen, like the Temples of Bagan, Shwedagon Pagoda, and the Temples of Mrauk U. Myanmar is very diverse, with some exciting ethnic groups that maintain their traditions, like the Chin people. I plan to go back many times in the future. Tragically, Myanmar is currently in the midst of a civil war, and so much progress has been lost over the last year.   

Which was the happiest moment of your traveler’s life?

There is always a push and pull between time and money, between seeing more quickly or slowing down to blend into the community. I stayed in Yerevan and Phuket for extended times, volunteering. Two of my happiest times were longer stays of four months each. 

This was an opportunity to give back a little to the community, which is always a good feeling, and to make some genuine friendships and learn about the culture and the people. 

And which was the most challenging moment? (or the most dangerous)

I participated in a rally which was organized by Large Minority in Cambodia. Me and my partner drove a tuk-tuk across Cambodia for two weeks and 1400 km. It was a great way to see a great country. Everything was perfect except when I crashed the tuk-tuk, and it ran over me. 

Thankfully I was not seriously hurt, but my leg was cut badly. I was brought to a rural clinic where I received stitches on an open veranda with a couple of dogs watching on. Unfortunately, the stitches did not hold, and new stitches were put in when I got home to Bangkok.

You are Armenian. Can you give us three arguments for visiting Armenia from your experiences?

I am, indeed! I was born in the US, but my grandparents come from that region. I have been to Armenia nearly 20 times, one time for four months. So, I can give you many reasons to visit.  

First, it is easy to explore whether you rent a car, take a marshrutka (minivan), hop in a GG (their version of Uber), or simply walk around Yerevan. I also like Armenia since it is not expensive; you can have a meal for several dollars or a cold beer for a buck.  

Second, there is plenty of history and ancient culture. You can explore Khor Virap Monastery in the shadow of Mt. Ararat, where Christianity was brought to Armenia in the 4th century. Another favorite of mine is Tatev Monastery, which is perfectly perched on a mountain on the edge of a valley. You can drive, hike up there, or take one of the world’s longest cable cars.

Three, Yerevan, the capital, is one of my favorite cities worldwide. There is a great restaurant and café scene. And after that, the city has some very talented musicians with great music. Some excellent museums, such as the Matenadaran, officially the Mesrop Mashtots (the father of the Armenian alphabet) Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, a museum, repository of manuscripts, and research institute. Check out the Cascade with its open-air art museum, which has amazing city views. In short, it is easy to relax here for a week or more and simply stroll around. A suggested great introduction is Yerevan Free Walking Tours, guided by my old friend, Vako. 

Does Ric Gazarian have a journal of your flights to date? If yes, how many of them, and which airline company is most frequented?

I love the idea of recordkeeping, but I am sad to say my recordkeeping has only been more comprehensive over the last five years. I use Tripit to manage my reservations, and then that data is exported to App In The Air, which makes cool flight maps, etc.  

It looks like my airline leader is United, followed by Thai Air Asia with a total of 378 flights, but I would say I am missing a couple of hundred trips from my records. In 2019, my number one airline was Kam Air, with eight segments. Kam Air is one of Afghanistan’s carriers. Until I had planned my trip, I wasn’t even aware of Kam Air.   

Did you get any scary moment (but I mean… scary!) up in the air?

Actually, yes. I was flying from Chicago to Minneapolis, a lazy afternoon flight in a partially empty plane. As we neared Minneapolis, the pilot informed the passengers that we would make an emergency landing. As we descended, the attendants yelled, “brace for crash!”—a little unsettling, to say the least. Thankfully, everyone was safe; just a false indicator in the cockpit.  

Have you met any celebrities in your journeys? If yes, who and how come?

I had tea with Prince James and Liam of the Principality of Sealand. They are the grandsons of Prince Michael, the founder of Sealand. 

Of course, they are not as well known as Prince Harry or William, but it was a fun experience. 

The Principality is considered the smallest country in the world and, in my opinion, one of the most interesting.

Which is your favorite travel book?

So many favorite books! 

I try and read at least one book for each country I have visited to learn more about the country. I will say my favorite book is Shantaram, by Gregory David Roberts. It is about 5% non-fiction and 95% fiction. It is about a felon who escapes prison and makes his way to Mumbai in the 1980s. It is simply an amazing adventure that will either propel you to India or scare you away. 

What is your favorite quote as a traveler?

This one does not exactly roll off the tongue, but Mark Twain sums up one of the great benefits of why we should all endeavor to travel. “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

You can read about Ric Gazarian’s journeys on his website, GlobalGaz.

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