The Best American Travel Writing 2006Tim Cahill writes in his introduction to The Best American Travel Writing 2006, \"'Story' is the essence of the travel essay. Stories are the way we organize the chaos in our lives, orchestrate voluminous factual material, and if we are very good shed some light on the human condition.\" Here are twenty six pieces that showcase the best travel writing from 2005, filled with \"keen observations that transform ordinary journeys into extraordinary ones\"

and Energy—that you can apply to any creative craft

to engage (and not engage) in your workplaces

all forms of trauma

You'll join a terrified young couple on a Ferris wheel when a spectre appears inside their cage

A treasure trove of recipes and memories

Awestruck challenges your knowledge and perceptions through practical

belongings back to her with a kind note and snacks that Lilly realizes

The first cell

From the bestselling author of The Vampire Diaries L

compassionate individuals

hero of the blockbuster Unbroken

The real things that happen to people