The 7 Best Bookstores in Sofia, Bulgaria, for English Books

elephant bookstore for english books in sofia bulgaria

Whether you’re an expat, traveller, or local bibliophile in search of your next read, Sofia, Bulgaria offers a surprisingly rich selection of bookstores catering to English-language readers. From quirky independent shops to well-stocked chains, this guide highlights the best places in Sofia to find English books, complete with locations, opening hours, and insider details that […]

12 Ethical Alternatives to Amazon for Books in the US & UK

why we read - amazon alternatives for buying books

Amazon has been my go-to for buying books, especially for the convenience of Kindle and Audible while travelling. However, I’ve recently been asking myself: is there an alternative to Amazon that aligns with ethical values, supports independents, and offers e-book freedom? Amazon dominates the global book market—up to 60% of U.S. book sales and roughly […]

Books About Bulgaria: A Literary Journey Through History & Identity

books about bulgaria

If you’re looking for books about Bulgaria, there’s a wide range of powerful stories and insightful nonfiction to explore. From novels and short stories that capture everyday life and national identity to historical works that explain Bulgaria’s past, these books offer a rich way to understand the country. Whether you’re interested in personal memoirs, literary […]

The Best Books About Malta: Fiction, History & Culture

books about malta illustration

If you’re looking to dive into Maltese history, culture, or just enjoy a gripping story set on the little Mediterranean archipelago, this list of Malta books offers a rich collection of reads. From war sagas and memoirs to contemporary fiction and graphic novels, these titles capture the unique essence of Malta.

Read Around the World Challenge: Books From Every Country

read around the world - invisible cities by italo calvino

Welcome to the Read Around the World Challenge, a literary adventure designed to take you on a global journey through the pages of books. Are you a wanderlusting bookworm? A digital nomad? An armchair traveller? Or all of the above? Me too. Whether you want to understand places at a deeper level or diversify you […]

The Best Books to Read About the Vatican & the Pope

books about the vatican and pope

The Vatican—an independent city-state at the heart of Rome and the spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church—has long fascinated believers and non-believers alike. Now, in the Year of the Rome Jubilee and with the imminent May 7th Conclave to elect the next pope, we’re all more fascinated than ever. Whether you’re looking for a […]

6 Books About & Set in Sardinia, Italy

books about sardinia

Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, is a place of wild landscapes, ancient traditions, and a culture all its own. Unlike the mainland, Sardinia feels almost like a country within a country—one with its own language, legends, and rhythms of life. Whether you’re planning a visit or simply curious about this unique Mediterranean island, here are some […]

Day Trip to Pamukkale from Antalya: Is it Worth It?

day trip to pamukkale from antalya

Pamukkale, called the “Cotton Castle” due to its stunning white terraces, is one of Turkey’s most unique natural wonders. However, Instagram is not always the reality. I took a day trip to Pamukkale from Antalya and although it’s beautiful, I’m not sure I would return or at least, I would do it differently. With mineral-rich […]

A Winter Travel Guide to Mestia, Georgia

mestia svaneti georgia

Mestia was one of my favourite places I visited during my winter in Georgia. Tucked away in the dramatic peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, it’s one of Georgia’s best-kept winter secrets. Whether you’re carving fresh tracks on the slopes of Tetnuldi (yes, I learned to ski in Mestia!), warming up with hearty kubdari in a […]

Traveller’s Guide to Lamproba Festival in Svaneti, Georgia

lamproba festival in svaneti georgia

This winter I was lucky enough to time my visit to Mestia to experience one of Georgia’s most mystical and ancient traditions — Lamproba Festival. Every February, the highland villages of Svaneti come alive with the warm glow of flaming torches, as locals honour their ancestors. Unlike any other festival in Georgia, Lamproba is a […]