Film & TV Tourism - A Travel Trend That’s Here to Stay:
“TV Tourism” (also known as “Set Jetting”) is a trend that is taking the global travel industry by storm! This term refers to the phenomenon of travelers visiting locations they’ve seen featured in television shows or movies. This type of tourism is driven by the desire to experience the places or settings that have become familiar and captivating through on-screen portrayals. Modern film and TV have an incredible impact on the travel industry, boosting local economies as travelers visit destinations linked with popular movies or shows, seeking to immerse themselves in the worlds they see on screen.
In this post, we’ll explore a few popular destinations featured in popular films and TV that we recommend to our travelers. Though these destinations have been popularized by TV, they are also thriving countries with rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes worth visiting for those who’ve fallen in love with the destinations through TV or those who’ve never seen the shows!
White Lotus Season 3 - Thailand:
White Lotus, an HBO series about the lives of the ultra-wealthy, has inspired travelers to consider the luxury destinations where each season is filmed. Season one was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Hawaii, and season two at the Four Seasons Hotel San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily, which both caused a massive spike in interest for travelers.
The current season takes place in Thailand and features two luxurious resorts that viewers can’t wait to visit! So far, Season 3 has contributed a collective $36.9 million to the economies of Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok. Though White Lotus has popularized these resorts, they are worth highlighting for anyone interested in experiencing the best Thailand has to offer!
The main resort featured in the show is the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. It offers a serene escape with stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. The resort’s lush, tropical surroundings create a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, while the modern villas provide privacy and quiet luxury. You can enjoy world-class Thai cuisine and unwind by the tranquil pools or on the pristine beach, surrounded by the island's natural beauty, tropical jungle landscapes, and coastal vibe. When you book with Chickadee Travel, you can enjoy added inclusions on the resort and a discounted nightly rate at this tropical oasis!
While the Four Seasons serves as the primary filming location for Season 3, the nearby Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in Chaweng is also featured, specifically for the lobby, jewelry store, and Singing Bird Lounge in the show.
Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in Chaweng offers modern luxury and tropical charm for a far lower price than the Four Seasons. The resort is set against the backdrop of lush gardens and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Guests can relax in stylish rooms and villas, many with stunning sea views, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Chaweng Beach nearby, one of the most famous beaches in the south of Thailand. The resort's range of dining options, from Thai delicacies to international cuisine, adds a flavorful touch to the experience, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and exploring Thai culture.
While rooms at the Four Seasons start at around $800-$1000 per night with Chickadee Travel’s negotiated rate, rooms at the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort start as low as $100 USD a night with our discount! Both resorts offer five-star luxury and serve as a perfect “home base” to explore the south of Thailand and surrounding islands. You can visit the famous elephant sanctuary, hike lush tropical mountains, and sail to fragrant and relaxing island destinations.
Lord of the Rings - New Zealand:
New Zealand has become a must-visit destination for Lord of the Rings fans, drawing thousands of tourists eager to experience the breathtaking landscapes that brought J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth to life. From the rolling green hills of Hobbiton to the towering peaks of Mount Doom, the country’s diverse and dramatic scenery perfectly captured the essence of Tolkien’s world.
For travelers wanting to walk in the footsteps of Frodo, Aragorn, and the rest of the Fellowship or those who have never even seen the movies, New Zealand offers a natural landscape of contrasts with rolling hills, lush forests, white sand beaches, and volcanic mountains to explore.
It’s a country made for exploration and adventure; whether you’re exploring the charming Hobbiton village (Matamata, on the North Island), hiking through the misty forests of Rivendell (Kaitoke Regional Park), or standing atop the rugged mountains of Mordor (Tongariro National Park), fans and adventurous travelers alike can immerse themselves in the natural magic that brought Middle-earth to life on the screen in New Zealand.
The crisp mountain air of the Southern Alps fills your lungs as you gaze at or ski down the snow-capped peaks, while the lush green fields of the Waikato region invite you to unwind in nature. In Rotorua, the smell of sulfur mingles with the fresh scent of pine forests as geothermal steam rises from bubbling hot springs and geysers. The sound of crashing waves along the rugged West Coast beaches contrasts with the tranquility of the native bird songs echoing through the dense, ancient forests. New Zealand offers a sensory adventure at every turn, whether you’re savoring the taste of world-renowned wines in Marlborough or the richness of freshly caught seafood along the coast. No wonder New Zealand’s otherworldly beauty perfectly captured the whimsical musings of Tolkien’s fantasy world!
Game of Thrones - Dubrovnik, Croatia:
Croatia has become a popular destination for travelers of all kinds, especially for Game of Thrones fans eager to step into Westeros and explore the stunning locations that brought the iconic series to life. From the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik, standing in for the royal capital of King's Landing, to the impressive Fort Lovrijenac and the sun-drenched streets of Split, Croatia offers a treasure trove of memorable filming spots and marvelous destinations for visitors.
Andrew and I visited Croatia in the summer of 2023 with his family on a Mediterranean Cruise. We absolutely loved the mountainous country, its rich culture, and its natural landscapes, and we were surprised to learn how much of Game of Thrones was filmed there!
You can wander through the same historic streets and landscapes that served as the backdrop for some of the most pivotal moments in Game of Thrones, immersing yourself in the magic and drama of the Seven Kingdoms and the thriving culture and iconic landmarks of Croatia. The country’s breathtaking scenery, rich history, and delicious cuisine make it an unmissable destination for fans looking to connect with the world of the show and for travelers looking for a lesser-known Mediterranean escape. Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls served as the iconic outer defenses of King’s Landing, where key scenes unfolded, including moments with Tyrion Lannister and Varys.
Just outside these walls, Fort Lovrijenac (St. Lawrence Fortress) stood in for the Red Keep, home to the royal family, and hosted dramatic confrontations, like the tense showdown between Tyrion and his father, Tywin. The central Old Town, with its bustling streets and Pile Gate, witnessed some of the series' most pivotal moments, including Cersei’s infamous "Walk of Shame." High above it all, Minčeta Tower, with its breathtaking views, doubled as the House of the Undying in Qarth, where Daenerys had a prophetic vision.
While in Croatia, we personally visited St. Lawrence Fortress, Dubrovnik, and Minčeta Tower. We also participated in an incredible local wine tasting atop a mountain, enjoyed local seafood in the island city of Trogir, and shopped the bustling streets of the central Old Town with a traditional Croatian cherry strudel in hand. Croatia is a multifaceted country with delightful nature, culture, and food around every corner, and you just have to visit to truly understand its captivating beauty.
The Worlds You Fall in Love with Through Your Screen Are Closer Than You Think!
The world you’ve fallen in love with on-screen is waiting for you. Whether you’re ready to unwind in the same luxury Thai resorts featured in The White Lotus, walk in the footsteps of hobbits in New Zealand, or stand atop Dubrovnik’s ancient walls like a ruler of Westeros—let’s make it happen. Message us today to start planning your dream trip with insider perks and exclusive discounts.
