At Books and Bao, you’ll find recommendations for diverse literature — from queer writers to books in translation — as well as unique travel guides, delicious culinary experiences, tattoo guides, and manga recommendations.

Cultural & Literary Travel
Explore the most beautiful heritage buildings plus historic and artistic places around the world with real curiosity and heart.
9 Unique Toronto Bookstores You Need to Visit
Toronto is a book lover’s paradise, boasting a vibrant literary…
The 10 Best Independent Bath Bookshops, UK
As one of the oldest and most architecturally beautiful little…
Read more of our cultural and literary travel pieces.
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow”

Latest Book Reviews and Lists
Read Books and Bao’s reviews of translated literature, author spotlights, essays, and translator interviews to discover something new.
51 Beautiful Shakespeare Quotes (Comedies & Tragedies)
There is no simple or easy place to start talking…
50 Witty & Inspiring Oscar Wilde Quotes
Oscar Wilde was arguably the finest wordsmith the English language…
50 Inspiring Quotes About Reading (by Famous Authors)
Throughout history, the written word has been a vessel for…
50 Iconic Jane Austen Quotes (From Every Novel)
Jane Austen was an early 19th century English author known…
16 Must-Read Cozy Fantasy (& Found Family) Books
A rapidly growing sub-genre, there’s no feeling like reading charming,…
15 Best Books About Hell (Devils, Demons, & Magic)
History through the lens of the unrighteous is sometimes the…
Browse more book lists and reviews.
13 Must-Read Japanese Mystery Novels (Honkaku)
It’s often the great European and American mystery writers of…
” If you want to know a country, read its writers”
Food and Drink
Discover delicious foods, food guides, and the best bars and restaurants around the world.
10 Cutest Cafes in The Hague, NL
The Hague’s city centre is a pleasure to explore. Its…
12 Best Korean Cookbooks: (A Taste of Seoul at Home)
Enjoy the finest Korean foods in the comfort of your…
Read Our Latest Food and Drink Articles
What to Eat in Tokyo (+ Ramen Guide)
Tokyo is a foodie’s dream! It’s a city with more…
A Culinary Guide to South Korea (+ Jeju Island)
If there’s one country’s food that has taken off on…
” I think food, culture, people and landscape are all absolutely inseparable.”


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