We have great admiration for Mitchell Beazley, publishers of extraordinary, big, beautiful books with a travel and international bent.

One doesn’t need a magic carpet any more to travel intelligently. Just one Beazley’s Voyage Collection’s AMALFI COAST or their JAPAN, two gems that will allow you to embrace these destinations in style.

AMALFI COAST has 240 stunning photographs and illustrations plus a playlist to immerse yourself in the ambience of Southern Italy. This book is a dazzling way to embrace la dolce vita on a unique literary journey. A true gem of southern Italy, this coastline with its steep slopes exudes a timeless charm. Amalfi is its epicentre, nestled in its rocky amphitheater where colorful houses and immaculate villas seem to hang in the air. In Ravello, the scent of wisteria mingles with the salty sea air in the enchanted gardens that have inspired so many artists.

A people of fishermen and artisans, the inhabitants of this coastline cultivate la dolce vita. The serenity of the Amalfi Coast can be felt on every street corner, at the top of every belvedere. A place where you find yourself dreaming, dazzled by the light of the sun setting over the azure waters where Odysseus once encountered the sirens. You will be carried away on a unique journey, far from crowds and the expected with this book.

JAPAN is a luxurious escape to this ancient land with 260 remarkable photographs and illustrations plus an immersion into the true spirit of this captivating country.

With this book, you’ll be inspired with Japanese culture, craftsmanship, architecture and cuisine. The ultimate luxury gift book, this clothbound tome with sprayed edges and an embossed cover is a beautiful celebration of the ancient land of Japan. http://www.octopusbooks.co.uk.