In the 1880s, Ethel Vincent and her husband decided to do something extraordinary: they quit their regular lives in England and set off to see the world. Forty Thousand Miles Over Land and Water is her firsthand account of that epic trip. They sailed across oceans, rode camels through deserts, and navigated bustling cities from Japan to the Middle East. The book follows their route, sharing the good days of stunning beauty and cultural discovery right alongside the bad days of illness, rough travel, and genuine danger.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is Ethel's voice. She's witty, observant, and refreshingly honest. She doesn't just describe palaces; she tells you about the fascinating people she met and the everyday life she witnessed. You feel her awe at new landscapes, but also her frustration with unreliable guides or uncomfortable lodgings. It's a powerful reminder that the spirit of adventure isn't a modern invention. Reading her story makes you appreciate both how much the world has changed and how the core experience of travel—curiosity, challenge, and connection—remains the same.

Final Verdict

This is a gem for anyone who loves real adventure stories, armchair travel, or social history. It's perfect for readers who enjoy the personal feel of a diary and want to see the Victorian era through the eyes of a clever, resilient woman who was far ahead of her time. If you liked the travels in Eat, Pray, Love or the historical detail of The Lost City of Z, but prefer a true story, you'll be captivated by Ethel's journey.