2023 wrapped: Set-jetting, a travel trend
10 travel destinations for binge-watchers to wanderlust over
Ever wanted to visit a country from your favourite TV show or movie? You’re not alone! Set-jetting is the ultimate travel trend in 2023, with 76% of travellers thinking of jetting off to a place they spotted on screen and half actually making a booking!
Want to turn your on-screen wanderlust into real-life thrills? Here are some blockbuster destinations people love:
1. Japan
Studio Ghibli films are a big pull to Japan with their stunning visuals. Add in theme parks decked out with beloved and iconic characters from Pokémon to Naruto, Japan’s the ultimate place to turn screen dreams into reality. No wonder it’s the fastest-growing destination for Gen Z and Millennial travellers in 2023!
2. South Korea
With the K-drama craze, it’s no surprise that South Korea tops the travel charts for Singaporeans! Seoul dazzles with drama hotspots like Lotte World and Namsan Tower! However, K-reality shows like Running Man, 2 Days 1 Night, and most recently, Single’s Inferno have also turned heads to more secluded places like Saseungbongdo island – otherwise known as hell.
Image credit: @goout_0710
3. Switzerland
Guess what! The Hallyu magic isn’t confined to South Korea. K-drama sensation Crash Landing On You had people itching to fly to Switzerland to check out the beautiful mountains and lakes featured on the show.
4. Paris
Emily in Paris is the ultimate guilty pleasure show that’s got many folks dying to see dreamy Paris! From the enchanting Jardin du Palais Royal to the charming rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre, there are countless tours and guides to live out your Parisian dreams like Emily.
5. London
Calling all Harry Potter fans! Head to King’s Cross for the iconic hidden Platform 9¾, complete with a trolley setup for that Instagram-worthy pic. Plus, the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London will transport you into the wizarding world, right next to the sets, props, and costumes of the magical movie franchise.
6. New Zealand
Beyond its breath taking landscapes, New Zealand was the filming grounds of the Lord of the Rings! The entire trilogy was filmed in the country and some spots are not too hard to find. Exploring the rivers and parks of Wellington, the country's capital, is like stepping right into the enchanting world of Middle earth.
7. Sicily
Season 2 of the award-winning, hit-show The White Lotus has the mesmerising setting of Sicily. Explore the charms of legendary resort town Taormina and soak up the sun on the white sandy beaches of Cefalù for the taste of lux life. Hopefully, your vacation turns out more peaceful and relaxing than the show — no plot twists, just good views!
8. New York
New York City is the ultimate stage for movies and TV. From iconic shows like Friends and Sex and the City to intense dramas like Succession, being on the streets of the Big Apple is like stepping into the vibrant world of cinematic wonders!
9. Hong Kong
These days, Gen Z and millennials are all about classic and vintage vibes, making Hong Kong the hotspot. People are flocking to the locations of iconic films by Wong Kar-wai and other timeless masterpieces while soaking in the city skyline that starred in Hollywood hits like Transformers: Age of Extinction.
10. Langkawi
While Crazy Rich Asians brought the spotlight to Singapore, there’s actually a luxe gem near home. Remember the extravagant bachelorette party? It was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, nestled in the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. With its stunning landscapes and top-notch service, you can truly live out your crazy-rich movie dreams.
How many of these blockbuster spots have you checked off? If you’re eyeing for one last epic trip of the year, consider these places! Don’t forget to secure a travel insurance 30 days before your trip to make sure your year ends like a movie scene as you return home safely.
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