The Best Travel Books

I'm not an expert on many things but I can say with confidence that I am most certainly a connoisseur of travel literature. I get silly excited when I am planning a vacation. It usually starts with my nose stuck deep into a travel book of my chosen destination.

I've read 'em all my friends. From Thomas Cook and Lonely Planet, all the way to AA Key Guides and National Geographic. I've amassed a quite a collection over the years.

Fresh out of college I used to fall asleep reading the Atlas in bed. Not much has changed, I still love a good sniff every now and again.

Or a flick through the dog-eared pages. Daydreaming of Namibian dunes and Moroccan souks.

It's truly become a beloved collection with memories, maps and ticket stubs tucked between pages.

Like a good friend, the best travel books never let you down. The AA Key Guide has always been a tried and true companion for our journeys. Time and time again, we are giddy with a well chosen spot. It was our 'bible' for so many places; sightseeing in Australia, train journeys through Italy, safaris in South Africa...

// What makes a great travel book? //

- A good combination of text and photos. Sorry Lonely Planet, I don't have the time to read 900 pages of text.

- Well organized. Ideally with tabbed categories for quick reference.

- Portable. Nobody wants to lug around a 10 lb. book while traveling.

- Good reviews and suggestions. Crucial when you are relying on your guide book to choose your food and accommodation.

More and more often I find myself using travel apps but with international cell charges and iffy Internet, you can't beat a good 'ol travel book in your back pocket.

What is your go-to source for traveling?