Traveling for Literature: Bookstores Worth Crossing Oceans
If you’re a book lover, you know the joy of wandering through a bookstore, the smell of fresh pages, and the thrill of discovering new titles. But what about taking that love of literature to the next level and traveling for it? Imagine exploring bookstores around the world, uncovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the literary culture of a new country. That’s what this article is all about – traveling for literature and finding the best bookstores worth crossing oceans for.
The Bookstore Traveler’s Guide
The Rise of Bookstore Tourism
With the rise of e-books and online retailers, it’s no secret that the traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores have struggled in recent years. However, a new trend has emerged – bookstore tourism. People are now specifically traveling to visit unique and iconic bookstores, seeking out the experiences that only a physical bookstore can offer.
The idea of traveling for literature is not a new one; bibliophiles have long journeyed to places such as London’s Charing Cross Road and Paris’ Shakespeare and Company. However, with the help of social media and online travel sites, the trend has gained momentum and has opened up a whole new world of literary exploration.
The Joys of Bookstore Traveling
Traveling for literature is more than just checking off a list of must-see bookstores. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture, and perhaps even discover a new favorite author or genre. Bookstore travelers are drawn to the unique character, history, and charm of each bookstore, as well as the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share their love of books.
Bookstore tourism also offers a chance to support the struggling book industry. By making a conscious effort to visit and purchase books from local bookstores, travelers can help keep these physical havens for book lovers alive in an increasingly digital world.
Bookstore Destinations Worth Crossing Oceans For
El Ateneo Grand Splendid – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Located in the heart of Buenos Aires, this stunning bookstore is a converted theater with a grand stage that now serves as a reading area. El Ateneo Grand Splendid has retained its ornate balconies, gold trimmings, and red velvet curtains, making it a truly magical place to browse and get lost in a good book.
Shakespeare and Company – Paris, France
As mentioned earlier, Shakespeare and Company in Paris is a must-visit for any bookstore traveler. This iconic store has a rich history, dating back to 1919, and has been a gathering place for literary greats such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Allen Ginsberg. It is still a haven for writers today and is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
Barts Books – Ojai, California
This unique bookstore in the small town of Ojai, California, is a treasure trove for book lovers. The entire store is made up of outdoor shelves and bookcases, making it the largest outdoor bookstore in the world. Visitors can browse books surrounded by beautiful gardens and even purchase a book from a strategically placed honor system cash box.
Daunt Books – London, England
Daunt Books has become a popular destination for book lovers visiting London. The store is famous for its long oak galleries and large stained-glass window, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for book browsing. It also specializes in travel books and offers a wide selection of fiction and non-fiction titles.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina – Alexandria, Egypt
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, also known as the Library of Alexandria, is not your typical bookstore. This modern library is a symbol of the revival of the ancient library of Alexandria, which burnt down in the third century. It offers a book buying experience like no other, with a wide range of books in both English and Arabic, and stunning architecture paying tribute to the past.
Final Thoughts
The world is full of unique and fascinating bookstores waiting to be explored. From classic and historic bookshops to modern and innovative libraries, bookstore traveling offers something for every book lover. So why not plan your next trip around visiting these amazing literary destinations? After all, traveling for literature is a journey worth taking.
