The set-jetting trend, identified in Expedia Group’s recent Travel Trends report, has emerged as a major influence for travelers next year. This phenomenon captures the growing trend where travelers draw inspiration for their vacation destinations from TV shows and movies. With nearly 30% of travelers now attributing more influence to on-screen productions, set-jetting is reshaping the way travelers plan getaways.
Movies and streaming series have eclipsed traditional influencers. The study reveals over half of travelers acknowledge the significant impact of TV shows and movies on their travel plans.
A Thai Retreat Inspired by The White Lotus
In the first two seasons of the HBO comedy, real-life Four Seasons resorts—the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea in Hawaii and the San Domenico Palace Hotel in Taormina in Sicily—served as stand-ins for the made-up White Lotus resorts. Season three’s setting has been the subject of much conjecture, with bookings for both islands increasing by 300 percent.
Tim Burton’s Romania in The Addams Family
Tim Burton’s Netflix adaptation of “The Addams Family” uses Romania as a stand-in for Vermont. It’s where you’ll locate Transylvania, the legendary realm that houses Dracula. Cantacuzino Castle, which serves as the setting for the series’ Nevermore Academy—the enigmatic boarding school to which Wednesday Addams is sent grudgingly—is just one example of the breathtaking architecture of this destination. If you’re looking for something a little less scary, consider planning a day trip focusing on food and wine.
Malta in Gladiator 2
The tiny island nation of Malta in the Mediterranean plays a significant role in several films. The list includes James Bond films like “The Spy Who Loved Me” and “Troy,” as well as “The Da Vinci Code,” “The Count of Monte Cristo,” and many more. The eccentric town that was erected for the 1980 musical “Popeye” is also still open to the public. Similarly, a massive set, complete with a coliseum, was built for the upcoming sequel to Gladiator. Its components may be preserved post-production for use as tourist attractions.
Paris, France and Emily
Expedia experiences a more than 200% rise in interest after each season of the addicting Netflix series “Emily in Paris.” It has encouraged many dreamers to visit the romantic French capital. Visitors can learn about the titular expat’s favorite places in the city. Explore the Quai des Célestins on the Seine to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in the northwest wing of the Louvre Palace ahead of season four’s arrival. Another option is to go farther out, as Emily did. The five-star Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat is the perfect place to experience classic French Riviera style.
An English History of Bridgerton and the Crown
It’s no surprise that “Bridgerton,” a romance based on Jane Austen’s novels, and “The Crown,” a dramatization of the royal family, have enticed viewers to visit Windsor, Bath, and London. Travelers can join a walking tour of Bath sites. The list includes the Danbury and Featherington mansions, or live out your royal fantasies by staying at a sprawling castle. You can also book a Bridgerton-themed afternoon tea at the London hotel The Lanesborough.
Furiosa and the Remote Downs: Australia
Two much-anticipated cultural events this year are pointing toward a dramatic increase in interest in visiting Australia. The 2008 Australian love letter directed by Baz Luhrmann is scheduled to be reworked and expanded into a Hulu miniseries called “Faraway Downs.” Another nod to Australia, Furiosa is the setting of the origin story of the female rebel warrior in “Mad Max: Fury Road.” Having a good Australia travel guide, you can arrange your own cross-country adventure.