Travel and holiday Books

Book SynopsisRoald Amundsen was a Norwegian explorer whose team were the first to reach the South Pole – this is his astonishing story, in his own words.Amundsen begins by explaining that he was not born with an urge to explorer the farthest, uncharted regions of the world. At fifteen he received as a gift the memoirs of Sir John Franklin, a famous British explorer, which roused an immediate interest. This was increased further by Amundsen’s compulsory military service, part of which consisted of roaming the rugged, snowy outdoors. Almost immediately after the end of his time in the army, further explorations deep in the Arctic circle beckoned.At twenty-five, Amundsen was accepted into the Belgian Antarctic Expedition – an event he considers very lucky. For it was here that he gained his first experiences of the Antarctic climate, and began to contemplate organizing a team to reach the South Pole. It was an epic journey; Amundsen’s team, equipped with sleds run by dogs and clad in thick furs, famously became the first people ever to set foot on the South Pole.Later in the book, Amundsen explains his efforts to chart the Northwest Passage in the remotest wildernesses of Canada. To this end, he made use of aircraft in the early 1920s. However, owing to the economic turmoil after World War One he found it difficult to finance his expeditions. Nevertheless, his spirit remained undaunted – indeed, the tenacity that got Roald Amundsen so far shines in these pages.

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Book Synopsis‘One of those books that makes you feel good about being alive!’In the imposing Glen Carrick House overlooking Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, lives eighty-eight-year-old Mimi McKinlay, cared for by her three adult sons. Hamish has inherited his mother’s musical talents, Fin is the responsible brother, and Angus has the complicated and brooding personality to match his dashing good looks. But what all the brothers share is a concern that their beloved mother is living in her memories of her days on stage, while letting her present days pass her by.Jess Oliver is at a turning point. Amicably divorced after years of being married, this trip to the Highlands is a first taste of independence. It isn’t long before the beauty and hospitality of Scotland captures her heart.When Mimi and Jess’s paths cross, a friendship is formed that will change both women’s lives. And as together they find ways to look forward instead of to the past, long forgotten dreams are within reach, and every new day is fresh with possibilities. Take a trip to the Highlands with Judy Leigh for an unforgettable story of glorious pasts and fabulous futures, of love, friendship, family and fun. The perfect feel-good novel for all fans of Dawn French, Dee Macdonald and Cathy Hopkins.Readers love Judy Leigh:'This book, like its main character Mimi, exudes a certain joie de vivre feeling as you turn the pages. Highly emotional in places but heart warming and uplifting. Highly recommended.’ Jennifer Bohnet‘Loved this from cover to cover, pity I can only give this 5 stars as it deserves far more.’‘The story’s simply wonderful, the theme of second chances will resonate whatever your age, there’s something for everyone among the characters, and I do defy anyone not to have a tear in their eye at the perfect ending.’‘With brilliant characters and hilarious antics, this is definitely a cosy read you'll not want to miss.’‘A lovely read of how life doesn't just end because your getting old.’‘A great feel-good and fun story that made me laugh and root for the characters.’Praise for Judy Leigh:‘Brilliantly funny, emotional and uplifting’ Miranda Dickinson'Lovely . . . a book that assures that life is far from over at seventy' Cathy Hopkins bestselling author of The Kicking the Bucket List'Brimming with warmth, humour and a love of life… a wonderful escapade’ Fiona Gibson

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Book SynopsisThe Last Great Mountain tells the story of the first ascent of Kangchenjunga the third highest but reputedly the hardest mountain  in the world. It was an astonishing achievement for a British team led by Everest veteran Charles Evans. Drawing on interviews, diaries and unpublished accounts, Mick Conefrey begins his story in 1905 with the first, disastrous attempt on the mountain by a team led by Aleister Crowley, explores the three dramatic German expeditions of the the late 1920s and brings it all to a climax 50 years later with the first ascent by Joe Brown and George Band. The Last Great Mountain is the final instalment of Mick Conefrey’s acclaimed high altitude trilogy.

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Book SynopsisIn 1901 the 'real' Elizabeth holidayed on the Baltic island of Rügen with just her maid, a coachman, a carriage piled with luggage, and a woman friend. From such unpromising beginnings Elizabeth weaves a captivating farrago around her encounters. There's the snobbish bishop's wife and her personable, handsome son, a dressmaker and, astonishingly, a long-lost cousin -- Charlotte -- who is trying to evade the pursuit of her husband, the maddeningly genial old professor. Here, with delightfully astringent humour, Elizabeth recounts the misadventures that befall her. And, as she immortalised her Pomeranian wilderness in the famous ELIZABETH AND HER GERMAN GARDEN, she now writes enticingly of this remote and attractive island.Trade ReviewA mistress of irony * Lisa St Aubin de Teran *Delicious confection * DAILY TELEGRAPH *

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Book SynopsisWith more than 350 stories inside its pages, and 50-plus original illustrations by Ripleys official cartoonist John Graziano, this book is dedicated to the bizarre, colorful, and entertaining universe of amusement parks, rides, and attractions.

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Book SynopsisFor anyone planning a visit to Burgundy this Guide is indispensable. TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT As elegant as it is exhaustive. The whole book has body and bouquet, [its author] is well-read, witty, relaxed and impeccably observant. GUARDIAN Burgundy is one of the richest areas in France - rich in its art and architecture, its history, its food and wines, and its glorious countryside. Nowhere in Europe are there greater examples of the Romanesque: the basilica of the Madeleine at Vézelay, the sculptures of Gislebertus of Autun, the cathedral of St Philibert at Tournus. The very names of its vineyards - Corton, Chambertin, Montrachet - conjure up the robust and mature bouquet of the province. Once the abbeys at Cluny, Pontigny and Fontenay were the wellspring of medieval Christianity in Europe; now the spiritual community at Taizé speaks to the whole world. Nowhere in France is the sense of the past more immediate, nowhere does it so palpably inform the present. On its first publication, the Companion Guide to Burgundy established itself as the indispensable guide to the region. In this extensively revised new edition, FRANCIS PAGAN has updated and expanded the text to provide the reader with the most knowledgeable, reliable and attentive guide now available to this most fascinating and hospitable region of France.Trade ReviewFor anyone planning a visit to Burgundy this Guide is indispensable. * TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT *Table of ContentsHistorical background; Sens and the Senonais; the Tonnerrois and Auxerre; the Puisaye; the Chatillonais; from Chatillon to Vezelay; the Avallonais and the Morvan; from Avallon to Fontenay; Semur and the Auxois; from Saulieu to Dijon; Dijon; the Pays-Bas and the Valley of the Seine; the Cote; from Chalon to Autun; Nevers and the Nivernais; from Autun to Paray-le-Monial; through the Brionnais to Charlieu; from Charlieu to Cluny; from Cluny to Tournus; La Bresse and Macon; wine-making in Burgundy.

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Book SynopsisA lively, discerning companion to the beauty, myth and history of a fascinating and lovely region."A consistently first-rate series." THE TIMES When Ernle Bradford's Companion Guide to the Greek Islands first appeared in 1963 it was immediately hailed as the best published guide to the diverse and endlessly fascinating islands of the Aegean and Ionian seas. This revised edition of this classic travel guide profits from FRANCIS PAGAN's twenty years' of travel in Greek waters, and deep knowledge of the area. He has added further touches to Bradford's vivid accounts of the moods of the sea and the islanders' traditional ways of life, leading the reader to unexpected discoveries (hidden monasteries, hill-top villages, flowery valleys, quiet places by the sea), and writes in more depth of the Classical, Byzantine and medieval past. Included in this edition are accounts of recent archaeological work in the islands by British, American, and other European schools; he also guides the reader to sites which have become more accessible as communications multiply by sea, air and land. Photographs by George Domatas.Trade ReviewA consistently first-rate series. * THE TIMES *

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Book Synopsis`An exuberant performance' THE TIMES Highly praised on its first appearance, this new edition of the Companion Guide to Paris, fully revised by Anthony Glyn's widow, preserves his vivid evocation of Paris - its foundation and history, ancient churches, wide boulevards and narrow streets, architecture, and philosophy - while bringing the book up to date. Special attention is paid to the completed Grand Louvre with its Pyramid, the d'Orsay and Picasso Museums and the refurbished Centre Pompidou; the changes to the Eiffel Tower and the Panthéon; and the restoration of the footpaths along the Seine. Informed and amusing, the book captures the changing moods of this fascinating city.Trade ReviewGlyn is at his best when describing architecture, and when imparting snippets of information, such as that Delacroix took so long to complete his frescoes in Saint-Sulpice because he could only work during services, when the music inspired him. * TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT *An exuberant performance by a man thoroughly at ease in the subject. * THE TIMES *Anthony Glyn's Companion Guide to Paris describes a collection of strolls along the Seine, down the Champs Elysées, through museums, galleries and parks. Along the way Mr Glyn displays a dry humour and a taste for salacious gossip... Descriptions of areas such as the Ile de la Cité have a personal touch and depth not found in competing guides. There is also a useful section on how to live in Paris. * THE ECONOMIST *Table of ContentsThe Seine; the Right Bank; the Left Bank.

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Book SynopsisBerlin's traumatic past and vibrant present explored and explained in a guide to the culture, buildings and society of the city. Most people do not think of Berlin as a beautiful city, but it is filled with stunning sights, sounds and textures, all the more astonishing when the stories behind them are revealed. Today's Berlin is new and vibrant, but historyhas left its scars. A look in the right place is rewarded with glimpses of the glories of old Prussia as well as the abominations of Hitler's Third Reich and of the outer bulwark of the Soviet empire. Brian Ladd, a historian whohas been returning to Berlin for twenty-five years, pays homage to the familiar landmarks, but he also penetrates into obscure corners of the city and brings them alive with his shrewd and informed comment. He explains what the sights of Berlin have meant to Berliners who coped under kings and dictators, and who toiled, suffered and celebrated as their city was destroyed and rebuilt. This book invites you to share their passions as it draws you into the dynamic new capital that has risen from wreckage of post-war German history. BRIAN LADD is at the State University of New York at Albany. He has been a constant visitor to Berlin over a quarter of a century.Trade ReviewA valuable addition to writing about a city that has played a central role in shaping the modern world. * SUNDAY TIMES, BOOKS OF THE WEEK *

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Book SynopsisHas strong claims to be among the best guidebooks ever written. SUNDAY TELEGRAPH It is surely remarkable to write of a guidebook that it is difficult to put down. But it is certainly true of this one. ECONOMIST Calls our attention to everything beautiful, historic or curious left in the heart of London. SUNDAY TIMES David Piper's classic book is the most elegant, lyrical and stimulating of all guides to London, written with undisguised enthusiasm, intimacy and affection. It traverses London from Regent's Park to Lambeth, from the Tower of London to Kensington, with excursions on the river and forays to outlying points of interest, each chapter covering an area which can be comfortably walked in a day. The author draws out the individual character of each district through history, literature, art and architecture and his own informed and entertaining comments. This is an essential guide for those who really want to understand how London has developed; it has been thoroughly revised and updated for this new edition. DAVID PIPER was an art historian, director of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, from 1973-1985, and before that director of the National Portrait Gallery, London; FIONNUALA JERVIS, who revised the guide, has edited and contributed to numerous historical and art historical publications, and in the course of this revision has walked every step of the way in David Piper's footprints from her home in Kensington.Trade ReviewIt is surely remarkable to write of a guidebook that is difficult to put down. But it is certainly true of this one. * ECONOMIST *Calls our attention to everything beautiful, historic or curious left in the heart of London. * SUNDAY TIMES *Has strong claims to be among the best guidebooks ever written. * SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *Urbane, charming and supremely elegantly written, it contrives to impart lustre even to Leicester Square. * HOUSE AND GARDEN *That unremittingly excellent work of topography, David Piper's Companion Guide.... GUARDIAN [Smallweed] * . *Table of ContentsThames; The Tower and Tower Hill; Piccadilly, Green Park and the Haymarket; Leicester Square and Soho; St James's; Mayfair and perimeter - Park Lane, Oxford Street, Regent Street; Trafalgar Square; Whitehall and the Houses of Parliament; Westminster Abbey; St James's Park to Tate Britain; Belgravia, Victoria and Pimlico; Hyde Park; Knightsbridge and South Kensington; Chelsea; Bloomsbury; St Marylebone South; St Marylebone North - Regent's Park; Covent Garden; Fleet Street and the Strand; legal London - Inns of Court - Temple to King's Cross; Bank; a circuit about the Bank; St Paul's; Liverpool Street to Blackfriars; Holborn Circus to the Guildhall; South Bank - Southwark to Lambeth; points of interest beyond; envoi; travel; museums; churches.

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Book SynopsisThis easy-to-carry guide includes Genoa, San Remo, Savona, Portofino, the Cinque Terre, La Spezia and Lerici. Art historian, landscape architect and long-time Italy resident Paul Blanchard explores this beautiful region of fishing villages, coastal resorts and plunging mountain valleys, with a seafaring history and a fine culinary tradition, providing a fascinatingly detailed guide, with carefully chosen recommendations of hotels and restaurants.

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Book SynopsisThe Black Sea, hostile and hospitable by turns, a land of towering mountain peaks, green tea plantations and thick forests, has always attracted civilisation to its shores: Hittites, Greeks and Romans, Seljuks and Ottomans, Georgians and Armenians, Genoese and Venetians, have all left their traces here. This scholarly and intrepid guide visits all the provinces of the Turkish Black Sea region, delving into their history and discovering all the present-day reasons for a traveller to go there. There are many.

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Book SynopsisThe community of Deadhorse, Alaska (population 25) lies 250 miles north of the Arctic Circle, at the northern terminus of the Pan-American Highway, the longest road in the world.  Key West, Florida, sits at the southern tip of the Florida Keys, an archipelago of coral islands jutting into the Caribbean warmth of the Mexican Gulf.  Between Key West and Deadhorse lies most of North America. Londoner James Anthony decided to drive between the two, adjusting his GPS settings to ''avoid highways,'' letting an inanimate piece of technology guide him left-right through the byways, back roads, country lanes and mountain passes of this vast continent.Along the way, he was serenaded in an African-American Church in Miami; went peanut farming in Georgia; hitched a ferry ride across the Mississippi with moonshine-drinking locals; got drunk with a North Dakotan farmer who had three months to live; survived a haunting in Saskatchewan; was nearly squashed by an irate buffalo in the Northern Rockies; and arrived at the Arctic Ocean just before freeze-up.  Part travelogue, history, social commentary, and good-time escapism, The Slow Road to Deadhorse chronicles an Englishman''s road-trip through the North America most people never get to see. 

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Book SynopsisThis book documents the journey of Lady Anne Blunt (d. 1917) to Arabia in 1875. Hunt was a talented artist and the founder of the famous Crabbet Stud of England.

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Book SynopsisThis book documents the journey of Lady Anne Blunt (d. 1917) to Arabia in 1875. Hunt was a talented artist and the founder of the famous Crabbet Stud of England.

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