‘Set Jetting’ Around the World
Have you ever seen a movie and wondered where it was filmed and how to get there? There are many movies that inspire travel to various locations where travellers can put themselves in the footsteps of their favourite character. ‘Set-Jetters’ are people who travel to see a country or city of where a movie was filmed and I’m definitely guilty of being one of them. (Being on the set of ‘Lost’ in Hawaii was a dream come true!) From mysterious deserts to tropical beaches, here are a few movies that will get you off the couch and packing for your next big adventure:
Thailand- The Beach
Travellers have been flocking to The Phi Phi Islands in Thailand since this movie was released in 2000. The azure waters, white sand beaches and breathtaking rock formations surround the islands and are a realm for snorkelling and kayaking. We recommend: 4-day Thai Sailing Adventure from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
New Zealand- Lord of the Rings
New Zealand is known as Middle Earth for its Lord of the Rings trilogy. The rolling hills of Matamata became Hobbiton, while the volcanic region of Mount Ruapehu transformed into the fiery Mt Doom where Sauron forged The Ring, and Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, was the setting for numerous scenes including the Eregion Hills, and the Pillars of Argonath. We recommend 5-hour Ride of the Rings tour by horseback.
Kyoto, Japan- Memoirs of a Geisha
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most culturally rich, historic and scenic cities filled with countless temples and shrines such as the Kiyomizutemple and the Fushimi Inari shrine that were featured in this film. We recommend: half-day Kyoto tour.
South America- The Motorcycle Diaries
Based on the true story of Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara, this film is a journey across South America from Argentina through Chile, Peru, and Colombia to Venezuela. This heartfelt story and stunning scenery is full of adventure and will have you planning your next trip to South America. We recommend: 12-day La Paz to Buenos Aires escorted tour.
Scotland- Harry Potter
One of the most recognizable and stunninglocations used as a backdrop for the storyis Glencoe, in the Scottish Highlands. Thishistoric and scenic glen is great for outdooractivities and you can even visit the site of Hagrid’s Hut at the Clachaig Inn. Also ride aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, which was used as the Hogwarts Express, from Fort William to the small port village of Mallaig. We recommend: a return ticket on the Jacobite Steam train.
New York City- Sex in the City
This savvy, light-hearted chick flick gives a good taste of the New York lifestyle. Shop for designer outfits on fashionable 5th Ave, enjoy lunch in Greenwich Village and visit the spectacular St Patrick’s Cathedral in midtown Manhattan. We recommend: Sex and the City Hotspots tour.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah- 127 Hours
The scene of Ralston’s harrowing tale is Utah’s National Park, called Canyonlands that resembles the surface of the moon. The mysterious red rock pinnacles, cliffs and spires have created an ideal environment for hikers, 4×4 driving, mountain biking and white water rafting.
Greece- Mamma Mia!
This movie was filmed on the island of Skopelos which offers amazing coastal views, perfect blue water, lush foliage and quaint little towns. The perfect place fora relaxing holiday.
London- The Kings Speech
This inspiring movie reminds us of the stunning historic buildings in England’s capital; Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and Wembley Stadium. We recommend: full-day Majestic London Tour.
Italy, India, Bali – Eat, Pray, Love
This movie takes you on a journey of self discovery with the pleasures of eating in Italy, experiencing a spiritual side in India and achieving inner peace and balance of true love in Bali. We recommend: 15-day Spiritual India escorted tour.
Paris- Amelie
Paris’s charming Montmartre district where the movie takes place is full of tiny streets, shops, obscure little bars and cafés. Visit the beautiful art deco café where Amélie worked, called Café des Deux Moulins, and enjoy the famous crème brulée which is now named after Amélie. We recommend: Discover Paris City Tour.
Las Vegas- The Hangover
Trips to Las Vegas will never be the same after this 2009 comedy. Stay in luxury at Cesar’s Palace, wander the famous strip and gamble away at the many hotels for a night you will never forget (or possibly remember). We recommend: the Classic Room at Cesar’s Palace.
China- Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon
Filmed in Beijing and several other locations across China, the stunning settings in the movie include the spectacular Gobi desert, Anji bamboo forest and the Summer Palace north of Cheng De. We recommend: 9-day China Highlights escorted tour
Inspired to travel to your favourite movie location? We can help you set the scene on your next holiday adventure. Simply call 1-866-502-4605 to speak with a Flight Centre travel consultant who can help you plan everything from airfares, hotels, tours and cruises
About the Author
Emma Hackwood a freelance copywriter, amateur glider pilot and full-time adventure seeker, has travelled extensively in pursuit of her lifelong dream of simply seeing it all. Up to over 50 countries, she lists American Samoa and the seldom visited Marquesas Islands as her current favourite destinations, with a wandering eye on Guam and Tonga to complete her Pacific escapades.
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Good roundup! I watched The Beach right before my first backpacking adventure. The stunning beaches were right on the money, but the backpacking wasn’t as sketchy as the movie made it to be. ha!
We all know New York City is known for Sex in the City but some people may not get sold on that. Having been to New York City last summer of 2010, i was very impressed with the city. Although it was my third time visiting the Big Apple, short but sweet visit, it was the 1 among the 3 that led me to truly believe that NY is by far the best place to visit in preparation for what the world has to offer. My point is, if one is unable to travel the world mainly for financial reasons, at least check out NY because visiting NY is as close as you’ll get to traveling the world. To me, NY is not just about Lights camera action, it’s the different cultures that NY has to offer in all aspects that makes one feel so comfortable to live in this world we live in. Despite what we hear about New York’s bad side, the bad side about NY doesn’t measure up to what NY has to offer that gives a lasting impression once you have visited the city that never sleeps. I will always stand behind the phrase “I love NY” regardless what we hear about NY. From a visitor’s perspective, New York has it all.
agreed! Thanks for sharing and happy travels!
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