Travel for the Love of Books: The Best Book Fairs from around the World

Party animals can let their hair down at pubs and discotheques, but those who’ve tasted the pleasures of a quiet life will know that nothing beats the joy of curling up in your favourite corner with a hot cuppa and a good book! Their dreams are made up of clean rows of books, a world of fantasy and creativity – an alternate universe that they can slip into anytime they want. And this is a dream shared by millions who need, for their succor, a book well written and appreciated. So what better place to walk into this dream than at a book fair? There are hundreds of these events held across the globe annually. Some of them like the New Delhi Book Fair are so popular that they have two editions in a year; there will be a second installment of the Delhi Book Fair in September and of course, we’ll keep you posted on that one. But in the meantime, here’s taking a look at some of the world’s best book fairs worth attending.

New Delhi Book Fair, New Delhi

The best and biggest book fair in India is organised by the National Book Trust. With participation from over 20 countries, it is an event to reckon with and shows off the best of Indian and international authors and publishers to the million or so visitors who attend it each year. It is not only a great place to meet established and upcoming authors, it is also the perfect chance to witness Indian culture at its best – there are many cultural events that are organised in the evening from dance performances to music shows and recitals, book readings and ‘meet the author’ sessions.

When: Every year in February and September

Book Expo America, New York

It is one of the most glamorous cities in the world. It also happens to be one of the world’s largest cultural and literary hubs with some of the biggest names in publishing calling NYC their home. That it should hold one of the best book events is therefore not surprising. With a list of celebrated people visiting the event – from Mark Twain to Bill Bryson and John Grisham – it is very eagerly awaited. As many as 500 authors and over 1,500 exhibitors come here annually and hold stimulating conferences on a variety of topics ranging from blogging to digital publishing and the future of books.

When: May 29 to June 1

Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong

Held in bustling Hong Kong, one of Asia’s choicest destinations, the Hong Kong Book Fair also happens to be one of the largest events of its kind in Asia. From long queues (often forming through the night) for authors’ signatures, to an array of exciting cultural events, a dedicated section for children’s books and events and an increasing focus on e-books and digital printing, this event has become a huge success story. Visitors can buy not only the latest and best of literature but also a variety of other related material, stationary, e-readers and more.

When: July 17 to 23

Frankfurt Book Fair, Frankfurt, Germany

This is not an old event, but an ancient one dating back to the 15^th century! Today, it happens to be the biggest book fair in the world. With nearly 2,900 events in various categories organised by the world’s biggest publishers, authors and cultural organisations, it sees participation from over 100 countries.  Anyone who wants to be someone in the literary world aims to be exhibited here – through books or personally. From book signings and launches to talk shows, discussions and cultural events, these four days in Frankfurt pack in them a world of activities, people, celebrity authors, books, and events.

When: October 9 to 13

If you are a book worm like me, you’d have a hard time choosing your favourite book fair. So make your travel plans well in advance and visit them all! With MakeMyTrip, you can book your hotels, flights and holiday packages to destinations around the world.