Travel

A merchant’s account of his travels through an independent African state

Muhammad ibn 'Umar al-Tunisi (d. 1274/1857) belonged to a family of Tunisian merchants trading with Egypt and what is now Sudan. Al-Tunisi was raised in Cairo and a graduate of al-Azhar. In 1803, at the age of fourteen, al-Tunisi set off for the Sultanate of Darfur, where his father had decamped ten years earlier. He followed the Forty Days Road, was reunited with his father, and eventually took over the management of the considerable estates granted to his father by the sultan of Darfur. In Darfur is al-Tunisi’s remarkable account of his ten-year sojourn in this independent state.

In Volume Two al-Tunisi describes the geography of the region, the customs of Darfur’s petty kings, court life and the clothing of its rulers, marriage customs, eunuchs, illnesses, food, hunting, animals, currencies, plants, magic, divination, and dances. In Darfur combines literature, history, ethnography, linguistics, and travel adventure, and most unusually for its time, includes fifty-two illustrations, all drawn by the author.

In Darfur is a rare example of an Arab description of Africa on the eve of Western colonization and vividly evokes a world in which travel was untrammeled by bureaucracy, borders were fluid, and startling coincidences appear almost mundane.

A bilingual Arabic-English edition.

A merchant’s account of his travels through an independent African state

Muhammad ibn 'Umar al-Tunisi (d. 1274/1857) belonged to a family of Tunisian merchants trading with Egypt and what is now Sudan. Al-Tunisi was raised in Cairo and a graduate of al-Azhar. In 1803, at the age of fourteen, al-Tunisi set off for the Sultanate of Darfur, where his father had decamped ten years earlier. He followed the Forty Days Road, was reunited with his father, and eventually took over the management of the considerable estates granted to his father by the sultan of Darfur. In Darfur is al-Tunisi’s remarkable account of his ten-year sojourn in this independent state.

In Volume One, al-Tunisi relates the history of his much-traveled family, his journey from Egypt to Darfur, and the reign of the noted sultan 'Abd al-Rahman al-Rashid. In Darfur combines literature, history, ethnography, linguistics, and travel adventure, and most unusually for its time, includes fifty-two illustrations, all drawn by the author.

In Darfur is a rare example of an Arab description of Africa on the eve of Western colonization and vividly evokes a world in which travel was untrammeled by bureaucracy, borders were fluid, and startling coincidences appear almost mundane.

A bilingual Arabic-English edition.

Community Development Through Craft Heritage and Creative Tourism: Prospects and Challenges explores the intersection of traditional craftsmanship, cultural identity, and sustainable development. Rooted in the belief that craft heritage—both tangible and intangible—is a living reflection of community identity, the book examines how creative industries and tourism strategies can serve as tools for revitalisation and empowerment. Through critical analysis and case studies, the authors delve into the role of artisans as cultural custodians, investigate community participation in policymaking, and evaluate sustainable tourism as a vehicle for preserving artisanal knowledge and fostering social and economic resilience in marginalised areas.

A number of key issues are addressed, including: How can creativity coexist with the authenticity of traditional craft? What drives the evolving demand for craft heritage in the market? Is community engagement a byproduct of creative tourism, or does it require a more structured approach? With a focus on four key themes—craft heritage, community, creative industries, and tourism—the authors offer a global perspective on the dynamics of cultural sustainability, supply chain integration, and heritage valorisation. The work contributes a holistic framework for empowering communities through tourism-informed strategies, bridging indigenous knowledge with contemporary economic opportunities.

 The Brand: TRIBE Hotels are defined by the lifestyles of modern travelers as an affordable luxury where you can check in, kick back and experience the destination authentically. TRIBE Hotels bring together contemporary interiors, useful design details, comfortable spaces and unpretentious luxuries. The TRIBE Hotel Belo Horizonte is a perfect example of this philosophy. It offers striking modern design and hospitality in a special surrounding. 

The Book: Rebirth tells the exciting story of a special hotel. It presents the architectural and cultural-historical background of the surrounding area. It also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the planning and construction of the hotel, which stands out with its modern design. Informative text and impressive photography ensure that this book is a delight for anyone who enjoys unique design, exceptional hospitality, and contemporary travel.

From its revolutionary beginnings in 1776 to its influence on the modern world, the United States is a nation shaped by bold ideas, cultural milestones and groundbreaking achievements. The Little Book of the USA is a compact yet insightful guide to the country's evolution, filled with fascinating facts, historical moments and powerful quotes from the figures who helped shape its identity.

As the US marks its 250th anniversary, this book offers a timely celebration of its journey - covering everything from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the rise of Hollywood, the space race and the impact of American music, literature and innovation on the world stage. Whether you're interested in key historical events, the nation's diverse culture or the principles that continue to define it, this little book captures the essence of America.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers and anyone looking to celebrate American heritage, The Little Book of the USA is a must-read for those who want to understand the past, present and future of this influential nation.

The “supper club guru” Ron Faiola returns with fresh stories and photographs from another crop of clubs in Wisconsin—and even some a bit farther down the road. 

In this new addition to his Gold-Medal-winning supper club series, author and photographer Ron Faiola gives readers a tour of a new and updated clubs across the Badger State, from the Driftless region to the Northwoods, and—for the first time—travels across the Cheddar Curtain to nearby clubs in Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota.

But despite new faces and new places, some things stay the same. These are still largely family-owned establishments that offer old-fashioned hospitality, slow-paced dining, and good scratch cooking, each offering its own take on one of America’s most unique and enduring dining traditions. Full of interviews with supper club proprietors and customers, paired with photographs of classic dishes, club interiors, and other scenes from Faiola’s extensive travels, this guide celebrates the people who keep the cocktails poured and the relish trays fresh, giving local insights that will make even faraway readers feel like regulars. 

So pull up a chair and stay a while. Whether you’re a longtime supper club enthusiast or a curious newcomer, learn how today’s supper clubs are thriving in much the same way they have for more than 80 years—one Old Fashioned at a time. 

In his new photo book, Fokion Zissiadis takes us on a visual journey through fascinating Morocco. Following his impressive publications on Iceland, Vietnam, and Greenland, he now presents an authentic and holistic view of a country that harmoniously combines scenic landscapes, rich history, and traditions. 

The book, splendidly equipped with a high-quality linen cover and exquisite paper change, not only offers fascinating content, but is also presented in a generous XXL format – a true work of art for any coffee table. Through exceptional photography, Zissiadis captures the ephemeral beauty of the historic ruins of Volubilis, the imposing colours of the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen and the vibrant dynamics of the markets in Fez, Had Draa and Rissani, among others. 

Zissiadis has developed a remarkable sense of space and aesthetics through his architectural studies in Philadelphia. In his book “Morocco”, he succeeds in sensitively depicting the country's contrasts - from the tranquility of the desert to the vibrant atmosphere of the cities. His respectful approach to people and cultures lends this illustrated book a special authenticity.

Experience the diversity and richness of Morocco through the lens of an artist dedicated to adventurous travel and true-to-life photography. This work is more than just an illustrated book - it is an invitation to capture the spirit of Morocco.

Rooted in ancient traditions, spiritual journeys have long served as powerful catalysts for self-reflection, cultural understanding, and personal growth. With an emphasis on the cognitive transformation that often accompanies such travels, this contributed volume provides both historical context and practical advice to navigate the complex landscape of contemporary spiritual tourism.

A Guidebook to Ethical Spiritual Travel: Innovation and Global Insights synthesises age-old teachings with modern perspectives, offering readers a comprehensive framework for travellers on meaningful spiritual journeys. By presenting case studies and practical guidance, it encourages mindfulness and intentionality in travel, while addressing critical challenges like cultural appropriation, sustainability, and the commercialisation of sacred sites. Aimed at both academics and industry professionals, the international team of authors emphasises the importance of respect, responsibility, and cultural sensitivity, fostering global empathy and personal transformation through well-guided spiritual exploration.

• Famous sites like the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine and Tsukiji Fish Market
• Unusual museums like the Sword Museum, Hokusai Museum and the Kite, Tobacco and Salt Museum
• Spooky cemeteries where the famous 47 Ronin warriors are buried and the controversial Yasukuni Shrine to Japan's war dead
• Trendy Harajuku, Omotesando and Akihabara where you can buy the latest fashions and geeky gear
• Serene Japanese gardens nestling amidst the sleek skyscrapers in Tokyo's bustling business districts
• Sacred shrines like the Hill of Masakado's Head, the Statue of Kiyomaro and the Yushima Tenjin Shrine
• Scenic daytrips to nearby Yokohama, Kamakura, Hakone, Mt. Fuji, Nikko and Kawagoe ("Little Edo")

• The resorts around Lake Toya and Niseko, now famous as "the Aspen of Asia"
• The vast hinterland with its rainbow fields of lavender and towering volcanic peaks
• The rugged east—home to the native Ainu people and their traditional culture
• Hokkaido's stunning national parks, hot springs, waterfalls and distinctive wildlife

• Tokyo's Edo Legacy
• Tokyo Towns
• City Perspectives
• Spirit of Tokyo

• Chochin—decorative lanterns seen everywhere from shrines and temples to izakaya
• Fugu—the very carefully prepared delicacy of poisonous blowfish
• J-pop—the now widely popular musical genre
• Karoshi—literally translated as "overwork death"
• Omiai—the Japanese version of an arranged marriage
• And much more!

• The story of 40-year-old fisherman Hiro, one of two octopus hunters left on the island, who moved back to his home island to fill a void left by his brother who died in a boating accident.
• A Buddhist priest, eighty-eight, who reflects on his childhood during the war years, witnessing fighter pilots hiding in bunkers on the back side of the island.
• A "pufferfish widow," so named because her husband died after accidentally eating a poisonous pufferfish.
• The ex-postmaster who talks about hiking over the mountains at night to deliver telegrams at a time when there were only 17 telephone numbers on the island.

• Vending machines for everything from eggs to electronics
• Tiny alleyways where you may come across a shrine—or a hip-hop bar
• Silly mascots promoting serious businesses
• Whimsical architecture for neighborhood police stations
• Stamps for your name (no signature is complete without one), or to collect at railway stations and castles
• Colorfully painted, hardworking construction vehicles that beep and talk as you pass by
• And, of course, the ridiculously delicious food: noodles, bento boxes, and gorgeous sweets

• The impressive temples and volcanoes of Java
• The exquisite beaches of Bali
• The magnificent national parks of Kalimantan
• The traditional villages of Nusa Tenggara
• The tiger-haunted forests of Sumatra
• The spice-scented islets of Maluku
• The untrammeled wilderness of Papua
• and much more…

• Encounters with wild deer while visiting the famous Miyajima red gate
• A visit to Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Museum
• Spotting geishas on the backstreets of Kyoto
• A visit to the Tokyo graveyard where the famed 47 Ronin are buried
• Tasting authentic dishes like sushi, okonomiyaki, ramen and Japanese BBQ.
• Tips on getting around Japan by bullet train, local train, ferry, and bus!

• The story of 40-year-old fisherman Hiro, one of two octopus hunters left on the island, who moved back to his home island to fill a void left by his brother who died in a boating accident.
• A Buddhist priest, eighty-eight, who reflects on his childhood during the war years, witnessing fighter pilots hiding in bunkers on the back side of the island.
• A "pufferfish widow," so named because her husband died after accidentally eating a poisonous pufferfish.
• The ex-postmaster who talks about hiking over the mountains at night to deliver telegrams at a time when there were only 17 telephone numbers on the island.

• Chochin: Decorative lanterns seen everywhere from shrines and temples to izakaya
• Fugu: The delicacy of carefully prepared (and poisonous) blowfish
• J-pop: The now globally popular musical genre
• Karoshi: Literally translated as "overwork death"
• Omiai: The Japanese version of an arranged marriage
• And much more!

• Sky Lake of Changbai Moutnain
• The Great Wall
• The Forbidden City
• The Summer Palace
• Yungang Caves
• Terra-cotta Army
• Emei Mountain
• Three Gorges
• Suzhou Gardens
• West Lake
• And many more…

• Christian Sites in Nagasaki that tell the extraordinary story of Japan's Christians who continued to practice their faith in secret under penalty of death during Japan's feudal era
• Meiji Industrial Sites which tell of the nation's rapid modernization during the Meiji period
• The Munakata Shrine to seafaring deities on a forbidding island
• The Tomioka Silk Mill which became a leader in Japan's export drive
• The National Museum of Western Art, an architectural gem designed by Le Corbusier

• Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest and most sacred volcano. Located on Honshu Island near Tokyo, Mt. Fuji is considered the sacred center of Japan.
• Himeji Castle, a monument from Japan's long feudal history. Also known as Egret Castle, because it looks like a bird taking off in flight.
• Horu-ji Temple, the world's oldest surviving wooden structure—a center of Buddhist learning that still serves as a seminary and monastery
• The Hiroshima Peace Memorial or Atomic-Bomb Dome—one of the few structures to partially survive the atomic blast in 1945
• The Ogasawara Islands, a remote archipelago of over 30 islands including Iwo Jima, that is home to rare wildlife and spectacular scenery.

• Information on the country's 100 most important tourist sights, including 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Illustrated introductions to Japanese cuisine, popular culture, and Samurai history
• A map of each region with suggested walks
• Tips for getting off the beaten path and finding Japan's lesser-known treasures, such as the contemporary "art island" of Naoshim and Yakushima's breathtaking flora and fauna

Travel writing appears to be the most oxymoronic of genres: the practice of writing and reading typically requires stasis and travel writing emerges from movement. From the concurrent physical and emotional journeys of Ella Maillart and Annemarie Schwarzenbach to the instantaneous digital discourses of contemporary urban travellers, and from the challenges of writing in the extreme conditions of the Antarctic to those of updating guidebooks via Google Streetview, this book examines the tensions between actual journeys and their resultant texts. Writing on the Move asks questions about the meaning of ‘movement’ – and what counts as ‘travel writing’ – in an age of virtual journeying and enforced immobility.

Whichever city you choose – though we recommend all three, of course – you’ll be charmed like a snake on Jemaa El Fna in no time. And to help you sift through the noise, here’s our rundown of the best that Morocco has to offer. Marhaba!

Morocco may be a short hop, skip and a jump across the Med from Europe but it feels like another world. Salesmen flaunting their wares in the souks, robed figures rushing to prayer and ancient palaces decked with dazzling tiles – it’s easy to fall under its spell.

Marrakech, on the cusp of both desert and mountain, offers old-world glamour and an enthralling sense of adventure. Casablanca, lapped by the Atlantic, is a thoroughly modern metropolis with a special affinity for art deco. And at the northernmost tip of the country is the eccentric cliffside city of Tangier, where many a writer and artist have pitched up and sought inspiration over the years.

Most social science studies on automobility have focused on the production, usage, identity construction and aesthetic improvements of personal means of transportation. What happens if we shift the focus to the labour, knowledge and social relations that go into the unavoidable moments of maintenance and repair? Taking motorcycling in Romania as an ethnographic entry point, this book documents how bikers handle the inevitable moments of malfunction and breakdown. Using both mobile and sedentary research methods, the book describes the joys and troubles experienced by amateur mechanics, professional mechanics and untechnical men and women when fixing bikes.