Welcome to Reading the Book Travel

Discovering the world just off the beaten track

Photo of Jill Bowdery from Reading the Book Travel in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Hi! I’m Jill, a British blogger who has been exploring the world for two decades, visiting over 70 countries on 6 continents. I have a passion for unusual travel, whether that is visiting a popular destination in the off season, or discovering those places that most people have never heard of, let alone considered visiting.

Does that sound like you? Then join me as I explore the world just off the beaten track!

Travel History

Travel is a privilege that I never take for granted. I’ve been lucky enough to explore the four corners of the globe – come along for the ride!

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Latest Posts

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Things to do in Nottinghamshire: Explore Southwell Workhouse

Nottinghamshire, the United Kingdom

If you’re looking for fascinating things to do in Nottinghamshire, Southwell Workhouse is an unusual gem of a destination. Located in the small town of Southwell, Nottinghamshire, about 15 miles to the northeast of Nottingham, Southwell is one of the first...

The best Suffolk days out: Visit Framlingham Castle

Suffolk, the United Kingdom

Deep in the East Anglian countryside, medieval Framlingham Castle has a rich history which makes it one of the most fascinating Suffolk days out. The castle consists of a curtain wall which is still capable of keeping out invaders today. The central courtyard has...

Visit Blickling Hall, a stunning Jacobean house in Norfolk

Norfolk, the United Kingdom

Located deep in the Norfolk countryside about midway between Norwich and the coastal town of Cromer, Blickling Hall and Estate makes for a great stop off in the area. The magnificent Jacobean house sits in formal gardens and is surrounded by countryside with several...

Travel and COVID...

Reading the Book Travel explores every part of the world – so what happens when a pandemic hits? Well, we make our discoveries closer to home! As a UK-based blogger, I rarely have enough time to check out the charms of my home country. As the world gets back on its feet, expect more content from the United Kingdom, and share my discoveries of my birthplace in person or online!

My Travel Highlights

It’s almost impossible for me to pick my favourite destinations, not least because I’m an eternally positive traveller who embraces the beauty and the craziness everywhere I go.

Cities like London and Paris always pull me back, while Rio de Janeiro, Taipei and Seoul hold a special place in my heart. But here are 3 countries which are some of the most special for me.

My top 3 destinations

1. India

More than just the Taj Mahal, India is a vast country with many different landscapes and cultures. Rural Tamil Nadu is a spiritual gem, while Gujarat’s deserts and wildlife are awe-inspiring. There is so much to see here.

2. Bosnia & Herzegovina

Rarely has a country surprised me as much as Bosnia & Herzegovina. From the history of Sarajevo and the picturesque streets of Mostar’s old centre, to tumbling waterfalls, ancient castles and religious shrines, there is so much to discover.

3. Madagascar

The wildlife documentaries on TV only tell half the story of wonderful and blighted Madagascar. A huge island with a culture and fauna all its own, together with spectacular landscapes, unspoiled beaches and bumpy roads, it’s a country which is hard to shake off.