For the Woman Craving Travel, Simplicity, and Something More
If you’ve found yourself daydreaming about quiet mornings in a new place, or craving a slower, more soul-filled life—this list is for you.
When I was at the beginning of my own reinvention, books were my first companions. They made me feel less alone, more seen, and a little braver. I didn’t have a ticket booked yet or a solid plan—but I had a spark. And these stories helped keep that spark alive.
Below are ten books that whispered “yes” when I was full of questions. Some planted seeds of freedom. Others felt like warm, wise friends. I hope they meet you where you are—and nudge you toward where your heart is quietly leading you.
1. The Idle Traveller: The Art of Slow Travel by Dan Kieran
A gentle reminder that we don’t need to rush through life—or through travel.
This book taught me how to slow down, to be present, and to let the journey be the destination. A beautiful read for anyone redefining what it means to arrive.
2. Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Golden Gelman
Rita left everything behind at 48 to travel the world.
Her story gave me permission to reimagine what life could look like outside the lines. It’s honest, empowering, and full of heart.
This book cracked me open in the best way.
It reminded me that we don’t have to shrink, explain, or perform. We can trust ourselves, claim our space, and live wild and true. It’s a must-read for every woman ready to break free.
4. Brave Enough by Cheryl Strayed
A collection of powerful, bite-sized truths.
This one comes with me in my bag. It’s like a pocket-sized cheerleader for the days when the road gets messy or uncertain.
5. Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés
A deep, soulful dive into feminine wisdom and the wild woman within.
This isn’t a quick read—it’s a rich one. One to return to when you need grounding, strength, or remembrance of who you are.
6. The Comfort Book by Matt Haig
This one feels like a soft blanket for the soul.
Filled with gentle thoughts and reminders that it’s okay to rest, to feel, to begin again. It helped me create space to breathe and just be.
7. The Year of Less by Cait Flanders
Cait’s story of simplifying her life deeply resonated with me.
It’s about letting go—of clutter, habits, and expectations—and finding what really matters. Especially beautiful if you’re craving less stuff and more freedom.
8. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
This book feels like a green light to chase your curiosity.
It reminded me that creativity doesn’t have to be big or perfect—it just needs to be yours. A beautiful nudge to start something just because it lights you up.
9. How to Be a Wildflower by Katie Daisy
A visual love letter to wonder, nature, and whimsy.
This isn’t a traditional book—it’s more like a journal, a keepsake, a breath of fresh air. Ideal for anyone who loves to wander through pages and wild places.
10. 50 After 50 by Maria Leonard Olsen
Fifty small but powerful ways one woman chose to fully live after a major life change.
It’s practical, inspiring, and a reminder that reinvention can happen one brave act at a time.
Let Your Next Chapter Begin with a Page
You don’t need to know exactly where you’re going.
You just need a moment of stillness, a whisper of inspiration, or a story that reminds you: you’re allowed to begin again.
If one of these books finds its way to your nightstand, your carry-on, or your heart—I hope it brings you the same light it brought me.
Want a Quiet Moment to Reflect?
I created a free little guide just for women like us—those who are curious, open, and maybe feeling the quiet pull toward something more.
It’s called Wander & Wonder: 5 Soulful Prompts to Awaken Your Inner Nomad, and it’s a beautiful way to pause and reconnect with what matters most.
👉 Download the Free Prompts Here
This is your moment. Let’s wander—and wonder—together.
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