Whenever a new travel book appears, especially if it’s somewhere I think I’d like to visit, I end up grabbing it for my Kindle. I love finding inspiration for trips, for long old walks and I am obsessed with finding culture in perhaps, in popularity terms, less well trodden places… So when Bex sent me a copy of her adventure memoire Three Stripes South, focused on walking the Israel National Trail, I knew I had to read it.

This wasn’t so much something I had considered doing previously, I will admit I had never even heard of it, but I find Israel a fascinating country both historically and politically and knowing the sort of person Bex is, albeit virtually, I knew it would fascinating.

She writes in a really easy to read, captivating style which meant that once I started I couldn’t put it down until I’d finished… to the detriment of my grumbling stomach! The stories of the challenges faced were fascinating and certainly food for thought for those of us who have never been on an expedition lasting longer than a week, as well as the less glamorous side to thru hiking (both mentally and physically).

One thing I love about books like this is the specific focus you get on human interactions. From those of Bex and her own mind, with her husband and of course the people they met en route, including those whose tradition was to “feed walkers” with that famous hospitality that can be found throughout the region. Of course, it’s not just the human interactions. I particularly found the story about the concern over rustling at the tent relatable, as someone who regularly wild camps, though I’m fortunate to have only ever had a nosy sheep pay any attention to me.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and for anyone looking for inspiration or even some truly honest escapism this book is perfect. Will I walk the Israel trail? I don’t know, perhaps one day, but it has certainly made me think a lot more about the trials and tribulations we face both in our daily lives and on adventures.

Of course, when she got back from Israel Bex also founded the Love Her Wild community, which is full of inspirational humans doing wonderful things and enjoying the outdoors. There are groups for many local areas on social media, with people regularly organising meet ups. Well worth a look if that’s your sort of thing! 🙂

If you want to pick up your own copy of Three Stripes South it’s available at Waterstones as well as a number of independent bookshops.

*gifted for review, but as ever my honest opinion!