Discovering Bookish Cities

Discovering Bookish Cities

In today's digital world, the sensation of turning the pages of a book is a refreshing experience. Here are some cities around the globe that warmly welcome book lovers, where bookstores outnumber bars, literary festivals invigorate the community, and spending an entire afternoon lost in a book is not just normal, but encouraged. Below are four literary havens you shouldn't miss.

Hay-On-Wye, Wales

Plan your visit to this "Book Town" in the summer, especially during the Hay Festival, which typically takes place in May. This annual event was once described by Bill Clinton as the "Woodstock of the Mind," celebrating reading while providing a gathering space for authors and readers to discuss social, political, and environmental issues.

If you visit, you'll surely find yourself amidst a crowd of fellow book enthusiasts searching for their own 'literary sanctuary.'

Shopping Spots

With over 20 independent bookstores lining the quaint streets of Hay, the locals affectionately refer to it as a book lover's paradise. Two must-visit shops are Murder and Mayhem and Richard Booth’s Bookshop. The former celebrates the crime and horror genres, enveloped in a dark atmosphere that resonates through its decor and selection. Meanwhile, Richard Booth’s Bookshop is a dreamy three-story space filled with long wooden shelves, dark leather seating, and creaky wooden floors, ready for you to explore.

Reading Nooks

Head over to Castle Hay for a quiet reading corner. This castle, built during the Norman invasion, now serves as a center for education and literature. You can unwind in the on-site café or find a spot in the meticulously maintained gardens to immerse yourself in your favorite book.

Dining Options

Chapters is a Michelin Green Star restaurant that offers a seasonal menu featuring fresh local ingredients. Here, you'll find dishes like local fish and tender meats, paired with organic wines in a cozy atmosphere perfect for reading or people-watching.

Accommodation

Book one of the 19 rooms at The Swan on Hay, a centrally located hotel that combines the charm of a wooden house with modern design. The garden, dotted with fruit trees, is a serene spot to relax before enjoying traditional Welsh cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant.

Hobart, New York

Known as the "Book Village of Catskills," Hobart is a small village with a string of bookstores along its main street. Located in the Northern Catskills, about three hours from NYC, it’s a haven for those who love to browse through shelves in search of their favorite reads.

Shopping Spots

The compact size of Hobart allows you to explore all seven independent bookstores, each at the heart of the town. If you're hunting for rare and antique books, William H. Adams Antiquarian Books should be your first stop. You'll find three floors to explore, filled with books printed before 1850.

Reading Nooks

Being in such a beautiful mountainous region makes outdoor reading a must. From Hobart, you can hike or bike on various trails, including the 26-mile Catskill Scenic Rail Trail, which offers stunning views of fields, rivers, and charming small towns.

Dining Options

Don't miss the Book Village Inn & Bar, where imaginative cocktails are inspired by literature. You can try Hemingway's daiquiri or F. Scott Fitzgerald's favorite gin rickey. The food menu, influenced by Argentinian cuisine, features delightful dishes such as skirt steak and choripán.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Hobart is somewhat limited. You can stay at the Book Village Inn & Bar, which offers five well-appointed literary-themed rooms. If you don't mind a 45-minute drive from town, Eastwind Oliverea Valley is an ideal choice with 27 luxurious cabins nestled amidst the mountains.

Calgary, Alberta

As Canada’s third-largest city, Calgary is an ideal destination for literature enthusiasts, offering a vibrant experience unlike the quiet towns you might expect. The energy of Calgary is what makes it unique and appealing to a diverse array of readers.

Shopping Spots

Fans of horror and fantasy should not miss Nocturne Books. As Alberta's first bookstore specializing in horror, it boasts a carefully curated collection. If you're looking for local authors, this shop also features a consignment program for self-published works by Alberta writers.

Reading Nooks

Calgary has the longest urban pathway network in North America, with over 600 miles of trails. It connects neighborhoods, parks, and reservoirs, providing a unique way to explore the city. Bring a blanket and your favorite book, and stop at benches or grassy areas to read along your journey.

Dining Options

For a different perspective on Calgary, book a table at Major Tom. Located on the 40th floor, it offers modern cuisine with stunning city views. Try one of the creative cocktails and enjoy Alberta beef, and don’t miss the table-side flambéed Alaska cake. If you're engrossed in a great book, take the opportunity to read a few more chapters while the ambiance enhances your experience.