6+ Favorite Books on Travel in Australia and the Pacific (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on travel in Australia and the Pacific (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
$7.14

In In A Sunburned Country, Bill Bryson takes us on a lively journey through Australia, blending humor with insights about its culture and history. As he travels by train and car, he meets locals and explores quirky spots like White Cliffs. I loved Bryson's witty style and the rich historical context he weaves in. The book shines a light on Australia’s diversity and its friendly people, though I wasn't a fan of his harsh take on the Atlanta Olympics in the epilogue. Overall, it’s an entertaining and informative read that I highly recommend!
Pros:
Bryson's humor and dry wit enhance the narrative.
The research and historical anecdotes are well-executed.
The varied route and interactions with locals are entertaining.
Cons:
The epilogue is overly critical of the Atlanta Olympics.
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03/20/2026 11:03 pm GMT
Stoned With Savages by Maarten Troost
$11.20

In Stoned With Savages, Maarten Troost takes us on an entertaining journey through Vanuatu and Fiji, sharing his humorous misadventures amid the islands' quirks, like giant centipedes and the local love for kava. I found his wry wit and genuine excitement for discovery really engaging. Troost's ability to blend cultural insights with personal reflections on life abroad, including the ups and downs of parenthood, makes for a rich narrative. Honestly, there's not much I didn't like—it's just a solid read, much like his previous works.
Pros:
Humorous anecdotes make for an entertaining read
Troost's wry wit adds charm to the narrative
The exploration of cultural differences is insightful
Cons:
Not a whole lot to dislike.
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03/20/2026 11:03 pm GMT
Sex Lives of Cannibals by Maarten Troost
$10.81

In The Sex Lives of Cannibals, Maarten Troost shares his two-year adventure living on the Tarawa atoll in Kiribati. This isn’t your typical travelogue; it’s a funny and insightful look at how Troost’s dream of paradise clashes with the reality of island life, marked by the relentless soundtrack of “La Macarena.” I really enjoyed his storytelling, especially since he immerses himself in the culture rather than just passing through. Honestly, there wasn’t much I didn’t like about it—it's a solid read that kept me entertained throughout.
Pros:
Engaging travel writing that captures life in Tarawa.
Humorous storytelling that entertains and informs.
Author's immersive experience adds depth to the narrative.
Cons:
Not a whole lot - good book.
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03/20/2026 11:03 pm GMT
Holy Cow by Sarah MacDonald
$16.00

In Holy Cow, Sarah MacDonald shares her spiritual journey through India, sparked by a cow in New York who dreams of the country where cows are revered. The book offers a colorful exploration of India’s rich tapestry of religions and traditions, from Hinduism to Sikhism, and even Bollywood. I loved how Sarah immerses herself in different practices, tackling life's big questions along the way. The book captures India’s chaos and beauty perfectly, making it an enjoyable read. Honestly, I didn't find anything to dislike—it’s a fun and enlightening travel memoir that really showcases India's diversity!
Pros:
Excellent travel book through India
Shows India's diversity
Transformative personal experiences
Cons:
Nothing - fun read.
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03/20/2026 11:03 pm GMT
Headhunters on My Doorstep by J. Maarten Troost
$15.39

In Headhunters on My Doorstep, J. Maarten Troost takes readers on a journey through the South Pacific, retracing Robert Louis Stevenson’s travels while reflecting on his own experiences. The book is a mix of travel tales, historical context, and Troost’s personal story of overcoming addiction. I loved how he brought the region to life with vivid anecdotes and interesting characters, making it a fun read. However, I felt some islands were shortchanged, and the serious moments about addiction might catch some off guard. Overall, it’s a captivating travel narrative that’s definitely worth checking out.
Pros:
Troost provides an authentic and transparent travel narrative of the South Pacific.
The book is a fun read with colorful characters and fast-paced anecdotes.
It offers interesting historical context related to Robert Louis Stevenson and the islands.
The personal voice in the narrative adds depth, especially regarding Troost's recovery from addiction.
Cons:
The coverage of the Samoas and Gilberts feels short and lacks depth.
The chapter detailing Troost's addiction recovery is unexpectedly serious and saddening.
Parts about Robert Louis Stevenson are boring and skippable.
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03/20/2026 03:03 am GMT
A Beginner's Guide to Paradise by Alex Sheshunoff
$14.99

In Beginner's Guide To Paradise, Alex Sheshunoff shares his journey of leaving a conventional life for adventure on a small Pacific island. The book is structured around nine steps that encourage readers to embrace risk and change, drawing from Alex's experiences with culture shock, community, and the joys of living off the land. What really struck me was his reflection on how he used to be just a bundle of opinions, which made me rethink my own life. Overall, it’s an engaging read that inspires self-discovery and appreciation for nature, with hardly any downsides.
Pros:
Insightful narrative about personal transformation
Engaging depiction of life in the South Pacific
Emphasizes taking risks and embracing change
Cons:
Not a whole lot to dislike
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03/20/2026 04:05 pm GMT