If there’s one thing I love more than Amtrak, it’s books. Paperbacks, hardcovers, new, used, fiction, nonfiction–LITERALLY ALL OF THEM. Bring me the books. So, naturally, whenever I go somewhere, I try to seek out a bookstore to peruse for a few minutes (or hours). In my mind, no vacation is complete without a trip to one.

In light of this, I thought it might be fun to share some of my favorite bookstores from previous trips. Here are three bookstores worth visiting next time you find yourself in the neighborhood!

1. Crow Bookshop:  This is a really cute bookstore right on the “main drag” in Burlington that greets you with this beautiful picture window with some very comfy looking chairs–who wouldn’t want to stop in, pick a book off the shelf, and settle in? The store isn’t too large, but packs an amazing array of categories–from ships to sociology and everything in between. Many of the books are used, which means you can usually find a good read for under $10; however, the also stock new releases, should that be more your speed. Address:  14 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401.

2. Word on the Water:  For the description of this absolute gem, I turn to Nick, who can absolutely describe this slice of heaven better than I ever could.

Word on the Water is a bookshop on a barge on a canal in London. Need I say more? It’s filled from bow to stern with used books at low prices. And even if you don’t buy a thing (you will), it’s a free trip onto a historic London river barge. Plus, it’s a stone’s throw from Platform 9 3/4, so while you’re waiting to board the Hogwarts Express, you can do some book-buying.

Books and boats, truly a match made in heaven. Address:  Regent’s Canal Towpath, Kings Cross, London N1C 4LW, UK.

3. Book Culture:  With three locations in New York City, Book Culture is my go-to spot when I’m looking for a new literary companion. Their store on Columbus Ave has a great layout, not too big as to be overwhelming, but not too small as to lack a huge assortment. My favorite aspects, though, are “Blind Date with a Book” and the remainders table. Blind Date with a Book is exactly what it sounds like:  they’ve wrapped the book, and on the outside, they’ve said “If you like x, y, and z, you’re likely to enjoy this book. GENIUS! If you’re on the Upper West Side near the American Museum of Natural History, I highly recommend you detour here for a few minutes! Address:  450 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024.