18002099100
The Books That Travellers Leave Behind Have a Story to Tell
Table of contents
Have you ever picked up a book, flipped through its pages and inhaled deeply? Slowly? Savoring the sweet fragrance of vanilla flowers and almonds…? Yes, we’re talking about an old book. Perhaps a classic, such as The Great Gatsby or To Kill a Mockingbird, or maybe one of those Grimm’s fairy-tales – you know the ones with the hard-bound shell and beautiful cover art?
Books are more than just stories. They’re portals into wholly different universes. Fantastical settings, complex characters, tumultuous plots… an avalanche of literary magic! But perhaps the point we’re trying to highlight here, is that books evoke emotions and create cherished memories. Books ignite our passions and heighten every sense. Just like travel does!
And so, when we’re jetting off to exotic locales, we always have a paperback in hand. A companion for those cubby nooks that we seem to chance upon at hotels or parks. And sometimes, we even leave a little memento for a fellow traveller to discover. In light of this thought, here’s a little something for you. The next time you’re on vacation and you discover a book sitting forlornly on the bedside table left behind but not forgotten, here are five exciting things that you can do with it!
Fashion your very own character
Search through the pages to find any handwritten notes, dedications [or snippets of inspiration. Most avid readers, jot down their points of view, often trying to make sense of the story. They then pass it on to a friend, who will leave their thoughts in return. Make sure you scan the book thoroughly to miss out on nothing; be it a fold or a scribble. Once you’ve collected clues from the book, create a character. Profile the traveller who left his/her book behind. Be creative and story tell! This is your chance to channel great minds like Sherlock Homes and Agatha Christie.
Play dress up
Open up your suitcase and pull out all the accessories, you can find – hats, sunglasses, brooches, scrunchies, shoelaces, bandanas, handkerchiefs… The list will be endless, as holiday packing will vary with the destination in question and duration of the visit. And let’s not forget, individual tastes, preferences and style! Once you’ve got a good selection of objects, dress up the book. Make sure you handle the book with care, ensuring no pages are torn or bent out of shape. Use pretty items to enhance the book’s look. Let your imagination run wild! Then capture your glory moment by taking a picture.
Take a historical tour of the Books
Take note of certain things such as the name of the author, date of publication, genre, prequels, and sequels. Once you’ve procured these nuggets of information, do some research. Use your phone or laptop to gain more in-depth insight and context into the book. Perhaps it was written by the first female author the world has ever known? Or maybe the book was written during a time of great turmoil – The Great Depression, World War II, The Holocaust. Check to see if the book has a sticker or a tag. Was it procured from a bookstore such as Crossword, Landmark or Tidal Wave? By doing all of this, you will be able to trace the book’s journey and blueprint the path it has taken to reach you…
Write a letter
Read the first and last chapter of the book. Once you’ve finished the pages, write an imaginary letter to the author. What questions would you ask him/her? What opinions would you have formed for the middle sections? What do you think happened? Introspecting the possibilities and the infinite “what ifs” can be a lot of fun. Especially if you are a lover of literature. There is something incredibly poetic about putting pen to paper. If you look in the drawers of the hotel room desk, you’ll find crisp parchment and accompanying ink.
Suggested Read : Travel books that will inspire you to explore the world
Make a new friend
Carry the book with you, as you venture around town. Think of it as a snug buddy, while you sightsee, shop and eat! Go up to random strangers, be it tourists or locals, and ask them if they’ve ever heard of/read the book? This is not only a great ice breaker and a conversation starter, but a means to form connections with people from different walks of life. Share a cup of chai or a biscuit with the stranger who has now become your friend… After all, travel is about creating authentic experiences.
And who knows this better than Thomas Cook? Yes, as a travel company with its library of knowledge and expertise, we strive to curate the best travel diary for you. So, why don’t you be our next character? Delve into Thomas Cook’s storybook of travel bugs and book nerds. Head onto our website and navigate through some fantastic packages and deals. And don’t forget to engage in the five aforementioned unique activities, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself a book!
Table of contents
Recommended Articles for you
Hotter Than Hot: Exploring India’s Hottest Destinations
Reading Time: 10 minutes 0 0 Exploring the hottest places in India reveals more than just extreme temperatures; it uncovers a rich tapestry of cultures, intriguing histories, and breathtaking landscapes. From the arid deserts of Rajasthan to the blazing plains of Uttar Pradesh, each […]
10 Best Places To Visit In July In India On A Budget
Reading Time: 11 minutes 0 0 July, with its refreshing monsoon showers, transforms India into a vibrant tapestry of lush greenery and spectacular landscapes. For those who wish to explore the beauty of this transformation without causing a dent in their wallets, there are […]
Top 10 Coldest Places In India You Must Visit This Winter
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 As winter approaches, the quest for crisp air and snow-covered landscapes draws many away from India’s typically mild winters. Embrace the season by venturing into the country’s coldest regions, where each destination offers a unique blend of natural […]
12 Best Places To Visit In November In India In 2025
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 November is a month of vibrant transitions in India, offering an array of travel experiences from the cool Himalayan foothills to the warm beaches of the south. If you’re planning your travel itinerary for November 2024, India presents […]
10 Stunning Places To Visit In October In India To Experience the Autumn
Reading Time: 11 minutes 0 0 10 Stunning Places To Visit In October In India To Experience the Autumn October marks a magical time in India when the monsoon rains have ceased, and the landscape bursts with vibrant colours, making it an outstanding month […]
September Travel Guide – 8 Offbeat Places to Visit in September in India
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 As the monsoon starts to wane, September brings forth the vibrant palette of India with its pleasant climate and colourful festivals, making it an ideal time for offbeat travels. This guide delves into eight unique destinations across India […]
Explore Top Places to Visit in India this August
Reading Time: 11 minutes 0 0 August in India isn’t just about monsoon rains; it’s a month that opens up an array of travel possibilities across the country. From the cool hill stations to the less crowded beaches, the best places to visit in […]
10 Best Places to Visit in November Outside India on a Budget
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 As November rolls in with its mild weather and the promise of new experiences, many Indian travellers start looking for the perfect overseas getaway that doesn’t break the bank. If you’re planning to explore new cultures, cuisines, and […]
Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in October for Stunning Autumn Views
Reading Time: 9 minutes 0 0 Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in October for Stunning Autumn Views As October rolls in, so does the magical palette of autumn, transforming the landscapes of various countries into a vivid mosaic of colours. The crisp air […]
A Simple Explanation of Currency Pairs for Forex Beginners
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 The foreign exchange market, or Forex, is the largest financial market in the world, with trillions of dollars traded daily. For beginners, understanding the basics is crucial to navigating this dynamic market. One of the most fundamental concepts […]
Which Currency is Best to Use in Dubai?
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 Dubai, one of the world’s most vibrant and luxurious destinations, attracts millions of tourists and business travellers each year. Known for its towering skyscrapers, world-class shopping malls, and rich cultural experiences, Dubai’s allure often raises a common question […]
Step-by-Step Guide to Reloading and Unloading Your Forex Card
Reading Time: 5 minutes 0 0 A Forex card is an indispensable tool for international travellers, offering a secure, convenient, and cost-effective way to carry foreign currency. Whether you are a frequent flyer, a student studying abroad, or simply on holiday, a Forex card […]
5 Best Places to Visit in August Outside India in 2025
Reading Time: 9 minutes 1 0 As August approaches, many travellers seek destinations that offer a change of pace from the usual summer heat. Whether you’re escaping the warm Indian climate or looking to experience unique cultural events, August presents the perfect opportunity for […]
What is the Interbank Rate? A Guide to Foreign Exchange Pricing
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 The interbank rate is a cornerstone of global finance, particularly in the foreign exchange (forex) market. It represents the rate at which banks trade currencies with one another, forming the foundation for exchange rates that individuals and businesses […]
8 Best Countries to Visit in July: Top Picks for Your Summer Getaway
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 July is a fantastic month for travel, with the warm embrace of summer casting a golden glow over many of the world’s most captivating destinations. The longer days and vibrant energy make it the perfect time to explore […]
Understanding Foreign Transaction Fees and How to Avoid Them
Reading Time: 4 minutes 0 0 When travelling abroad or shopping online from international websites, one cost often overlooked is foreign transaction fees. These fees, while seemingly small, can add up quickly, increasing the total cost of purchases made in a foreign currency. Understanding […]
15 Best Places To Visit In April In India For An Exciting Spring Break
Reading Time: 9 minutes 0 0 April in India is a month of vibrant transitions and a wonderful time to explore its diverse landscapes. With the harsh winter receding and the scorching summer yet to set in, conditions are just right for discovering the […]
10 Best Places To Visit In May In India 2025 For A Thrilling Summer Escape
Reading Time: 10 minutes 0 0 As the summer sun brightens the Indian landscape, May is a wonderful time to explore the beauty and diversity of this vast country. From the cool hill stations in the north to the lush greenery of the south, […]
6 Budget Friendly Places to Visit in May Outside India
Reading Time: 8 minutes 0 0 Travelling outside India doesn’t have to be expensive! With a bit of planning, you can explore incredible international destinations on a budget while still enjoying unique cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. From the ancient temples of Southeast Asia […]
Why These Are the Best Countries to Visit in February: Travel Recommendations
Reading Time: 12 minutes 1 0 February may not be the first month that comes to mind for travel, but it’s an underrated gem for those seeking unique experiences without the crowds of peak tourist seasons. As the world transitions between winter and spring, […]