New Extremely Budget Travel Book: The Lunatic Express

Some time back, I was contacted by the kind people at Broadway Books about an upcoming release of a new travel book, “The Lunatic Express: Discovering the World . . . via Its Most Dangerous Buses, Boats, Trains, and Planes.” I took up their offer for an advanced copy to page through and upon its release a week ago I figured I’d give it a mention.

First and foremost, I’ve only wandered through its chapters aimlessly due to time issues, but collectively it seems like an interesting read Budget Globetrotters may be interested in. The book comes from an established National Geographic travel writer and chronicles his journeys world over on shitty forms of transportation. While perhaps slightly over dramatic at times, all in all I’ve decided it’s a book that, at some point, I will read front to back.

Mainly, I really admire Hoffman’s travel style which takes the comfort and luxury out of transportation. Having bussed around India for 3 weeks in more than hellish conditions, I can really relate to his stories, ideas, and train of thought. Taking 8 hour, public buses in less developed countries does something to you and shows you a more real side of a country that is otherwise missed. As I plan on using this strategy in more locales outside of India in the future, first reading his own distressed story will provide an entertaining source of inspiration.

For more information, go click around the Lunatic Express book site. If you’re looking at an entertaining account true budget travel, the Lunatic Express might be a good east read to check out for some of your own travel inspiration.