While travel restrictions continue to be enforced, many of us will be daydreaming of the white beaches and vibrant cities we planned to visit in the coming months. If you’re feeling the FOMO right now, here’s a few travel films to help transport you to your favourite destinations…
Los Angeles, United States – La La Land
If you want a real feel for Hollywood, then La La Land should be at the top of your list. From aesthetically pleasing musical numbers to witty dialogue, this film offers a whimsical perspective on life in LA. It explores the highs and lows of two creatives – Mia, an actress, and Sebastian, a jazz pianist – as they try to establish their careers and make it big in the City of Angels.
Paris, France – Amelie
This film follows an innocent and naïve waitress in Paris as she decides to go on a journey to help others find happiness. The Montmarte café Amelie works at is a real location in the City of Lights, and as you watch you can imagine yourself strolling down the same streets as the characters. Amelie is a feel-good, light hearted fantasy that will inspire you to perform more random acts of kindness.
San Francisco, United States – Escape From Alcatraz
I’m sure some of us are starting to feel like our homes are a more comfortable version of a prison, so if you’re looking for some (quite literal) escapism why not watch this well-known prison break film? You may already know the outcome of this plan to escape from one of the world’s most famous prisons, but you’ll still find yourself gripped by the suspenseful drama.
Antarctica – Where’d You Go, Bernadette
Ok, we know it’s unlikely you had a trip to Antarctica lined up, but the visuals in this quirky film will have you considering an excursion in the direction of the southernmost continent. The film is mainly based in Seattle, but focuses on a planned trip to Antarctica which eventually comes to fruition in a bizarre and unexpected way.
London, England – Paddington
There’s an abundance of films that focus on United Kingdom’s capital, but we feel Paddington really captures the essence of the city and what it means to be a Londoner. You’ll fall in love with this little bear’s personality, and the film is full to the brim with excellent British humour. We especially love the scenes set at the Natural History Museum, Portobello Road and Primrose Hill.
Tokyo, Japan – Lost In Translation
This quiet comedy-drama is set in Tokyo and follows the relationship between a middle-aged actor and college graduate. It’s predominantly set in a hotel, but also features scenes on the bustling streets of the city and in a karaoke bar. It explores themes of loneliness, culture shock and fidelity with a subdued and gentle pace.
Santorini, Greece – Mama Mia!
Missing the gorgeous white buildings and deep blue sea of the Greek islands? This bold musical will transport you right there with an ABBA soundtrack that’s impossible not to sing along to. Although it is actually set on the island of Skopelos, the scenery will bring back memories of popular holiday destinations, such as Santorini, Rhodes and Mykonos.
Hawaii, Polynesia – Moana
Another film with a soundtrack that’s impossible to ignore, Moana highlights the beauty of Polynesia and gives a reminder as to why we should respect Mother Earth. The animation is incredible, and gives a real feel for the luscious green forests and spotless beaches of Hawaii, Bora Bora and Tahiti. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songs will quickly get stuck in your head as you watch this story unfold.
Rome, Italy – Roman Holiday
You can’t go wrong with a classic Audrey Hepburn film, and Roman Holiday puts a spotlight on the Italian capital – Rome. It features Hepburn as a bored princess who escapes from her guardians to explore the city and eventually fall in love with a reporter, played by Gregory Peck. This film is the perfect antidote for those of us missing our European city breaks.
Jaipur, India – The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
This film follows a group of British pensioners as they move into a retirement hotel in India. Each of the seven tourists has a past, and a desire for how they intend to spend the rest of their lives. Their storylines intertwine with that of their host, who is also trying to find his way.
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