Movies, television shows, and social media frequently showcase some of the most stunning locales in the world. With the popularity of shows like “The White Lotus,” it’s no wonder that so many tourists are taking up “set-jetting” as a travel philosophy. It involves visiting locations seen in TV shows or movies.
Expedia’s 2023 Travel Trends Report found that two-thirds of global travelers have considered set-jetting, and 39 percent have booked trips based on on-screen inspiration. The allure of glamorous film and TV settings has made set-jetting the second most influential source of holiday inspiration – after recommendations from friends and family, of course.
Pop Culture-Fueled Travel Goals
The bucket lists of Millennials and Gen Z look very different from those of previous generations. Baby Boomers and Gen X prioritize landmarks, museums, and sites of historical importance when planning their travels. While history and culture still drive tourism, younger travelers are increasingly looking to the silver screen for inspiration for their next trip.
“The White Lotus” has seen increased interest in Hawaii and Sicily, but it’s far from the only piece of pop culture to drive interest in tourist sites. The “Harry Potter” films have long driven fans to pilgrimage to the United Kingdom and see where the beloved movies were shot. “Lord of the Rings” fans make similar trips to New Zealand. Movie and television tourism is nothing new, but in 2023, the trend is expected to reach new heights.
The Power of Social Media
It’s not just movies and television shows driving the set-jetting trend. Forty percent of surveyed travelers say a celebrity or influencer has inspired them to visit a specific destination. This aligns with another trend: the use of TikTok when making travel plans. More and more people are turning to the app for on-the-ground insight into popular destinations. While review sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor are mainstays for advice on restaurants and hotels, TikTok and YouTube provide greater context as to what to expect when staying in a particular location.
Getting recommendations and advice from social media is just the start. Forty-nine percent of survey respondents say they want to travel to destinations that will look good in photos and videos. Tourists have always sought out beautiful vistas, but factoring in one’s social media audience into the equation is definitely a new trend. People are eager to show off their experiences to their followers. It’s not just influencers who seek to make a spectacle out of their adventures – it’s a growing trend among most young people.
Tips for Set Jetters
Simply booking the next flight to Auckland isn’t enough to satisfy the demands of typical “Lord of the Rings” fans. If you’re hoping to partake in a little set-jetting this year, do your research. Find out where the key scenes were shot and whether you can visit those locations. Once you have your list of locations, plan your itinerary so that you can make the most of your time. Consider the best time of day to visit each location and factor in travel time between locations.
If you’re visiting a popular set-jetting destination, it’s best to book your accommodation and tours in advance to avoid disappointment. Remember that many of the locations you’ll be visiting are private properties or working film sets. Be respectful of the local people and follow any rules or guidelines that are in place.
Set-jetting is all about capturing the magic of your favorite TV shows and movies. Take plenty of photos to document your trip and share your experiences with others. While set-jetting is the main focus of your trip, don’t forget to enjoy the local culture and cuisine of the places you’re visiting. Try local foods and immerse yourself in the local way of life.
Where Will Set-Jetting Take You?
If you’re looking for a new way to travel, why not let TV and film inspire you to become a set-jetter? By visiting the iconic places that you’ve seen on the small and big screen, you can bring your favorite movies and TV shows to life.
Set-jetting can take you to incredible places, from the bustling streets of New York City to the rugged landscapes of New Zealand. By following in the footsteps of your favorite characters, you can explore the world uniquely and excitingly.
When you set jet, you can visit the locations where your favorite TV shows and movies were filmed. You can see famous landmarks up close, walk in the footsteps of famous characters, and experience the magic of movie-making firsthand.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a new way to travel, set jetting is a fantastic way to explore the world. So why not make your travel plans with your favorite films and TV shows in mind? You never know where your next adventure might take you.
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This article How Set Jetting is Revolutionizing the Travel Industry originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Photo Credit: [@ilovemayorova/DepositPhotos]
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chelsea DeAngio is a freelance writer based in Greensboro, NC. Inspired by a rootless childhood as a Navy brat, she enjoys traveling every chance she gets. Pop culture often drives her trips. Whether channeling her inner Lady Mary at Highclere Castle in the UK or noshing on nachos at Showgirls filming locations in Vegas, Chelsea is always in search of a little silver screen glitz.