13 New Books to Get You Through the Dog Days of Summer

As the sun beats down on us during these dog days of summer, it’s hard not to feel a little listless. A good book can transport us to far-flung destinations, escape the heat, and even provide practical tips for our next adventure.

Destination Guides

New books offer in-depth guides to lesser-known destinations. “The Hidden Places of Europe” by David Leffman is a comprehensive guide that explores off-the-beaten-path locations from Croatia to Slovenia. Similarly, “A Year in the World: Journeys of a Passionate Traveler” by Frances Mayes offers a personal take on exploring Italy, France, and Greece.

Leffman’s book stands out for its attention to detail and insider knowledge. As an experienced travel writer, he balances practical information with evocative descriptions that make readers want to visit the places he writes about. His chapter on Croatia covers not only popular destinations like Dubrovnik and Split but also smaller towns and cities like Zadar and Šibenik.

Mayes’s book is more of a personal essay collection than a traditional guidebook, but her expertise and enthusiasm are infectious. Her descriptions of food, wine, and culture are mouthwatering and will leave readers eager to explore Italy, France, and Greece firsthand.

Summer Road Trips in the US

For those who prefer to stay closer to home, new books offer inspiration for epic American road trips. “Roads to Nowhere” by Tom Kimes is a fascinating history of America’s forgotten roads and highways, while “The Great River Road: A Journey Along the Mississippi” by Jim Rasco offers practical advice on exploring one of the country’s most iconic waterways.

Kimes’s book is a delightful read that will appeal to anyone who’s ever gotten lost in the backroads or dreamed of building their own road trip adventure. With his dry wit and clever storytelling, he takes readers on a tour of America’s most obscure and fascinating roads, from Route 66 to US-61.

Rasco’s book provides practical advice for planning a road trip along the Mississippi River, covering everything from accommodations and dining options to historical landmarks and scenic stops. It’s an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore this incredible stretch of American landscape.

Budget-Friendly Travel Tips

For those on a tight budget, new books offer expert advice on saving money without sacrificing the travel experience. “The Backpacker’s Bible” by Andy Graham is a no-nonsense guide to traveling on the cheap, while “Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel” by Rolf Potts offers a more philosophical take on budget travel.

Graham’s book provides practical advice for backpackers, covering topics like finding affordable accommodations and packing light. His approach is down-to-earth and skeptical of any travel trend or gimmick that might not stand up to scrutiny.

Potts’s book takes a more holistic approach to budget travel, arguing that it’s not just about saving money but also about living simply and mindfully while on the road. His writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making “Vagabonding” an excellent choice for anyone looking to rethink their approach to travel.

Essential Packing Guides

When it comes to packing, new books offer expert advice on what to bring and how to pack efficiently. “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton is a beautifully written guide that encourages readers to think about the art of travel rather than just the logistics of getting from point A to point B.

De Botton’s book explores why we travel in the first place, and how we can cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for our experiences on the road. His writing is lyrical and insightful, making “The Art of Travel” a great choice for anyone looking to elevate their travel game.

Travel Planning Apps and Tools

New books explore innovative travel apps and tools that can streamline your planning process. “Travel Like a Local: The Insider’s Guide to London” by Lonely Planet offers practical advice on how to navigate the city like a local, while “The Savvy Traveler” by Kim Mombourquette covers everything from language translation apps to budgeting software.

Mombourquette’s book is a guide to the best tools and apps for travelers. She reviews and compares different options for booking flights, finding accommodations, and more, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to upgrade their travel planning game.

Seasonal Travel Safety Tips

As we head into the hottest summer months, new books offer expert advice on staying safe while traveling. “The Traveler’s Guide to Heat Exhaustion” by the American Red Cross is a concise guide that covers everything from prevention to treatment.

Meanwhile, “Travel Health 101: A Guide to Staying Healthy Abroad” by Dr. Kenneth Brown offers a more comprehensive approach to travel health, covering topics like vaccinations, medications, and in-flight illnesses.

These books provide essential information on heat exhaustion, sun protection, and other common hazards that travelers face during the hot summer months. Whether you’re heading to a tropical destination or exploring your own backyard, they offer expert advice on how to stay safe while traveling.

With these 13 new books, you’ll have everything you need to beat the dog days of summer with travel inspiration, practical advice, and expert guidance. So grab a cold drink, settle in, and start planning your next adventure – wherever it may take you!