Sun, water, air

The nineteenth century gave birth to a completely new type of traveller. Modern tourists yearn to see the terrifying majesty of high mountains, experience the Middle Ages inside mysterious castle ruins, or soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere and technological advancement of big cities. Travel is also a source of deeply physical experiences: a lightning-fast train ride offers a completely new experience of space-time, while spas promise not only improved health but also sexual amusement. At the turn of the 20th century, bathing machines guaranteed complete privacy on the beaches. Božena Němcová anxiously protects her alabaster skin from the sun. And Franz Kafka, on a trip to Paris full of brothels with Max Brod, packs Odol in his suitcase to protect against venereal diseases.

This original, richly illustrated historical monograph draws on dozens of diary and travelogue entries from famous and completely unknown Central Europeans. It takes its readers on a unique journey through the transformations of the modern tourist and their physical experiences.