When was the last time you actually used a printed map to find a destination in a new place? What about using not just a regular map, but a map that tells a story of the place or its people. The whole experience would be more colorful.

This is what Hysterical Maps do. They inspire your travel ideas by allowing you to imagine what it would be like living like a local. So how did these maps become a source of inspiration for many an explorer? Join me in this post, and let’s dive together into the fantastic world of Hysterical Maps.

Where did Hysterical Maps come from?

Yes, it is not a typo and you have read it correctly: Hysterical Maps. What is so hysterical about them? Let’s start from the beginning.

Back in the 1930s, during the Great Depression, two Spokane brothers, Jolly and Ott Lindgren, wanted to bring back smiles on people’s faces by showing them that the world around them was not as gloomy as it might have seemed. Jolly, the artist, decided to draw an entertaining map of Spokane. Little did he know he was about to invent something very special.

The map came out very entertaining and lively, adding flavor to Spokane, filled with jokes, puns, and quotes. For example, one of the descriptions on the map would say: “Up this way lies Moran Prairie … but who cares.” Hence, you get the name now: not just historical, but “hysterical”. These maps were immediately commercialized and replicated for other places. They would sell well with calendars and other souvenirs. In fact, Hysterical Maps were among the pioneer souvenir items in the area.

Every map tells a story

Hysterical Maps are truly magical. For instance, each time I look at one of these pictorial maps, the Marauder’s map immediately comes to mind. All the Harry Potter fans out there should be familiar with this map of magic and mysteries. Similarly, Hysterical Maps have been awakening curiosity through the magic of their own from the very inception.

Through witty comments, fun facts, and colorful pictures, the map creators would infect us with the travel bug, inspiring us to start packing.

Indeed, Hysterical Maps show major attractions, the whole architectural layout, and even physical geography, in an original way. For example, imagine getting hold of the Hysterical map of Oregon. Studying the state on the quirky pictorial map will most likely inspire you to visit or even move to Oregon.

Now, let me paint another picture for you. Imagine comfortably sitting on your couch at home, exploring the map of California, and then another one of Yellowstone. And all of a sudden, you find yourself daydreaming about taking a road trip to visit these places in person. Hysterical Maps are speaking to you enticing you to see what these places are all about.

Which are 5 famous US hysterical maps?

Because of their popularity and originality, Hysterical Maps have been replicated for different places. In addition to the original Spokane map, other popular versions include:

• Lake Tahoe Wild and Woolly Nevada: We dare you to spot the “legal gambling” or the “Hangover factories” on this one.
• A Hysterical Map of Utah, which includes Zion Bryce, Canyon Cedar breaks, and stinking springs: Yes! All of it is the actual name of the map. And it all fits well on it along with the legend and the compass that says ‘This actually proves it’s a map!’.
• A Hysterical Map of the Yellowstone Park with Apologies to the Park: This map apologizes to the park, but I actually think it does justice to it, as it is very well-made.
• The Hysterical Map of the Mother Lode where California was born – This map offers some hope for all gold seekers out there.
• A Hysterical Map of Yosemite National Park: This one does quite a good job of presenting nature very lively through original drawings.

What do you think of Hysterical Maps? On a scale from 1 to 10 how… hysterical do they seem to you? Itchy feet anyone?

The post Hysterical Maps: Travel inspiration before social media appeared first on Altered Steel.

In this post, I’ve put together a few books that deserve an honorable spot on your bedside table and will prepare you to take the world by storm. Get your inspiration flowing by checking out these books about travel. You can thank me later.

1. ‘The Alchemist’ by Paul Coelho

In case you haven’t read this classic yet, I urge you to consider it. Published in 1988, the book evolves around Santiago, a shepherd boy from Spain. Following his night dreams, he embarks on an adventurous journey to discover the treasures of the Egyptian pyramids. On his pilgrimage, the young shepherd encounters many interesting characters, who guide him towards his destination. Ultimately, Santiago realizes that the quest for the treasure has turned into a quest for self-discovery. Indeed, like all good books about travel, ‘The Alchemist’ does a great job of teaching us that the journey itself matters more than the destination.

Thought-evoking quotes about life, pursuing dreams, and persistence in reaching your goals are some of the treats of this novel. The book is not voluminous, but I can guarantee it will leave you inspired and ready to start planning an adventure of your own.

2. ‘American Nomads’, by Richard Grant

Grant is a British writer, who moved from London to the US and spent 15 years wandering across the American landscape. As part of his adventure, he did not spend more than three weeks in one place and supported himself by writing stories. In ‘American Nomads, Grant invites you on a journey to discover the reasons that would make someone abandon the settled life and become a nomad, a wanderer.

During his experience, Grant realized that the nomadic lifestyle is a choice for many. Explorers, cowboys, bikers, and even urban employees have been turning nomads. People everywhere are willingly embracing this way of life. Grant digs into the stories of these characters, narrating both: his and theirs experiences, trying to make some sense of it all for himself, and for all the readers who may share the same passion.

3. ‘Love & Luck’ by Jenna Evans Welch

This New York Times bestseller is about road trips that eventually cure ailing relationships with family and oneself. The main character, Addie finds herself traveling across Ireland with her brother Ian and his Irish friend Rowan. Addie has just been through a difficult break-up, which took a big emotional toll on her. Ian does not make things easier for her either.

The story shows us how traveling and exploring new places can heal. The plot teaches us that adventures are not just fun. Oftentimes, the difficulties appearing are a big part of the healing process. The reward of every journey is personal growth and a chance to heal and become stronger.

4. ‘A Woman Alone: Travel Tales From Around the Globe’ edited by Faith Conlon, Ingrid Emerick, and Christina Henry de Tessan

For a woman, traveling alone is more of an exception than the norm. Yet, there are women who have dared to break this taboo and discover the pleasures of solo travel in far-away lands.

This book is a collection of stories, written by various solo female travelers who come from all around the globe. Each narrative has its voice, style, and perspective, which makes this book special. Yet, all the stories share the spirit of independence, freedom, self-reflection, and transformation. If you are a woman who has been holding herself back from traveling because of not having companionship, then this book will definitely encourage you to get on the road and embrace the solo exploration.

5. ‘The Places in Between’ by Rory Stewart

Have you ever crossed a whole country on foot? What if that country is Afghanistan? What if you are a former British diplomat crossing it in 2002, only a year after the 9/11 attacks? Most likely, you are thinking that this is a brave, almost suicidal act, which no one in their right mind would ever consider doing.

However, such adventure is a true story. Rory Stewart embarked on this thrilling trip alone, exposing himself to the dangers of harsh weather and almost getting killed several times. Much to our relief, he has survived the challenge and narrates how, as the ‘first tourist in Afghanistan,’ he witnessed culture clashes first hand. If you are already curious about his narrative, then you will find this book very captivating. This non-fiction travel thriller has received interesting reviews from the critics.

Regardless of the destination, the journey itself offers challenges to embrace, opportunities to grow, and memories to cherish. Are you curious about any of the books above? They can be not only a source of inspiration for your next trip but also a good travel companion. Are there any other books about travel that should have been on this list? Share with us in the comments below.

The post 5 books about travel to inspire your next adventure appeared first on Altered Steel.