With our society being immensely intertwined with our online presence- there is no better past time than to be able to immerse yourself nose-deep into a good novel, to unplug, disconnect and lose yourself in all of its otherworldly nuances and quirks.
There is a strong visceral reaction that happens when you pick up that book- the one story that has the power to transport you to a faraway elsewhere. Have you found that story yet?
That story within which every turn of a page, ropes you deeper into imaginary lands, much like Alice when she too, slipped further down into the rabbit hole. In the right hands, a good book becomes a source of inspiration and influence for even better stories and adventure.
Every book lover, young or old, knows this feeling well- it is one of nostalgia, enchantment and charm. Where will you find that story?
Here are our top 5 bookstores from around the world that are as beautiful as they are captivating- where you are guaranteed to find that story, or at the very least satisfy your hunger for adventure and thrill.
Libreria Acqua Alta - Venice, Italy
The world’s most beautiful floating bookstore. Ok- it isn’t necessarily floating, but it is situated right along one of Venice’s many canals, and you can even take a seat window-side overlooking the water. This offbeat and intimate shop is home to thousands of vintage books, magazines, maps and other novel-related paraphernalia. They’ve even got their inventory insured- that is, by storing their books in tubs, sinks and even in a Venezian gondola right smack in the middle of the shop. In a city that is constantly under the risk of flooding and rising water levels, Libreria Acqua Alta is prepared to sink or swim. Hey, if you’re lucky, you may even meet one of the many shop cats that sleep lazily across the overstuffed shelves and sinks.
Livraria Lello Porto - Porto, Portugal
Calling all Harry Potter fans! Step into the mythical shop that is Livraria Lello- rumoured to be J.K. Rowling's inspiration for the hallowed halls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the harrowed shelves of Flourish and Blotts bookshop. The rows of carved wooden ladders and railing, stained glass and grandiose spiral staircase, will have you feeling like you stepped into ancient gothic times. Imagine yourself climbing up the library-style book walls, searching for the books you need to ace your tests in Potions and Charms. Curious yet? If you can look past the herd of tourists that await at the doors, close your eyes and soak in the architecture and city- you too, can feel the magic that awaits in this palatial book oasis.
Boekhandel Selexyz Dominicanen - Maastricht, the Netherlands
Talk about Dark Academia vibes! This gothic-style cathedral, which served as a place of worship many years ago, is breathtakingly stunning architecturally, and is one of the most amazing places to explore your favourite genres. While you browse the cavernous nooks and make your way up the towering black iron bookcases scaling up the church walls, don’t forget to look up and take in the ornate gothic ceilings and details. No matter your background or religion the Dominicanen Kerk is the ultimate gathering place for devout book aficionados.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid - Buenos Aires, Argentina
What was once a gathering place to enjoy a theatrical production, to revel in the ballads of the Spanish opera while donning your laces and corsets– now resides one of the world’s most unique and unmistakably gorgeous bookshops. The El Ateneo is home to a carefully crafted collection of novels, digests, magazines and more, all being stored in what was once a legendary theatre/cinema. While El Ateneo has since moved away from its theatrical past, structurally, its history and energy are still intact; what was once mezzanine and balcony seats are now bookcases. What was once the grand stage for dozens of performers is now seating for patrons to enjoy a coffee and chat with friends. The building’s practical use has changed over the past century; however, its purpose remains the same- to gather, celebrate and exchange stories of long ago through literature and art.
Shakespeare and Company - Paris, France
No top bookstore list would be complete without an honourable mention of the myth, the beast, the legendary place where all travelling writers wander to- Shakespeare and Company in none other than Paris, France. Many of the greats of the Lost Generation have crossed their paths here– Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Langston Hughes– have all shopped here, written and even slept- in this ethereal and safe haven for wandering writers and book lovers alike. “Be kind to strangers lest they be angels in disguise,” is inscribed on the stores’ front door, a warm greeting for those eager to stay in the shop’s harrowed halls. George Whitman, who opened the store back in 1951, opened up the shop to struggling and vagabond writers on the stipulation that they write a biography and help around the store when needed. So what are you waiting for? Visit this iconic shop and feel the energy and inspiration move through you. Who knows, maybe you will be one of the greats, that generations after us will come to learn and talk about.
Rejoice, bibliophiles!
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