I didn't know Wake in Fright was based on a novel. What are some good books in this vein? Luke mentioned Ballard. He's got a few like that. That Steinbeck I read recently had a lot of lounging around drinking gallons of wine at midday. DeLillo's The Names is an upmarket version with a bunch of professional Americans occupying Greece in the 80s.
There's a distinction between the professional or tourist abroad story and the sweaty, dusty story, mind you. One's grimy, unbuttoned shirts stuck to your back, the other's affairs, intrigue and linen suits. Sorcerer vs. The Talented Mr. Ripley.