We’ve admired these locations from afar for too long – when you’re planning your next trip, include some set-jetting – coming through to your fave TV and movie settings!
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Right-o team, it’s time to switch off the Netflix, grab your passport and get off our couches, because it is time to bring our fave TV shows and movies to LIFE with a spot of set-jetting. Yup, you read right: set-jetting is literally the zeitgeist’s hottest travel trend RN, where fans visit destinations inspired by their favourite movies or TV shows.
The trend isn’t new, but it’s exploded in recent years thanks to streaming platforms, social media, and a growing appetite for immersive, emotionally resonant travel that, in the great Kiwi tradition, hits two birds with one stone. Global hits such as Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey and The White Lotus have turned featured locations into bucket-list destinations.
So, with the help of our Flight Centre pals, of course, here are five unforgettable destinations that have played starring roles in film and TV – and how to make exploring them easy.
1. Koh Samui & Phuket, Thailand: The White Lotus, Season 3
Filming Locations: Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket
Why production chose it: After Sicily’s heat and Hawaii’s gloss, the creators of The White Lotus wanted somewhere that offered spiritual depth, visual richness and complex cultural layers (um yes, sign us up!)
Why it’s perfect to visit: Thailand is the kind of destination that offers whatever you want it to. You can stay in luxe resorts, chill at laid-back beach cafés or explore ancient temples and buzzing markets. Flights are relatively affordable from New Zealand, and once you’re there, the value-for-money factor is a dream.
Don’t miss: Take a longboat tour through Phang Nga Bay’s limestone cliffs, enjoy a Muay Thai class followed by a massage at a wellness resort in Koh Samui and visit Bangkok’s iconic temples like Wat Arun or the Grand Palace.
What to look out for: The heat and humidity can be intense, especially between March and May. Hydrate often, dress light and don’t underestimate the power of a good air-conditioned café.
Insider detail: Tours are a great way to see the best of Thailand – particularly for first-time visitors. Explore Bangkok and beyond, visit iconic temples, bustling markets and traditional villages, or relax on the white sands of Koh Samui with Instagram-ready backdrops that The White Lotus is famous for.
2. Scotland – Outlander, The BFG, Prometheus
Why production chose it: With its jagged cliffs, rolling mist and ancient rock formations, Scotland delivers cinematic magic without any digital effects. Directors have used it to stand in for alien planets, fairy kingdoms and historical battlegrounds. It’s kiiiind of similar to Aotearoa in that respect – but the moody landscapes offer up enough differences to have us Kiwis enthralled.
Why it’s perfect to visit: If you love historic castles, whisky and dramatic weather, the Isle of Skye is your fantasy come true. It’s romantic, raw and unforgettable.
Don’t miss: Hike the Quiraing for those “is this real?” views, swim in the glacial Fairy Pools if you’re feeling brave and visit Dunvegan Castle for a dose of Scottish clan history.
What to look out for: The infamous Highland midges in summer. They’re tiny but relentless! Bring repellent and cover up if you’re hiking.
Insider detail: Steven Spielberg filmed The BFG on Skye, while Ridley Scott used it to portray an alien world in Prometheus. The isle may feel remote, but on screen it looks truly out of this world. For an easy way to explore Scotland, check out a tour package departing Edinburgh – discover ancient castles, the Scottish Highlands, and the Isle of Skye – for views that will take your breath away.
3. Highclere Castle, Hampshire, England – Downton Abbey
Why production chose it: When Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes imagined the Crawley family’s stately home, he didn’t have to look far. He was already friends with the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, who live at Highclere Castle, and knew it would be perfect. The Victorian-era architecture, grand interiors and sweeping parkland captured exactly the aristocratic grandeur he had in mind – and no need for set dressing.
Why it’s perfect to visit: With the last movie hitting screens this year, fans have been absolutely frothing anything to do with Downton as they say goodbye to the Crawley family. Highclere sits just outside the charming market town of Newbury, in the Berkshire-Hampshire borderlands.
What to look out for: Highclere is still a private residence, so it’s only open to the public during certain times of the year (usually spring and summer, plus select dates around Christmas). Tickets often sell out well in advance, especially for themed tours and events. Pre-booking is essential. Another great option is visiting nearby Bampton, in Oxfordshire – which serves as the main filming location of Downton Abbey village – including the local Church and two of the pubs.Talk to your travel expert about coach tours from London that visit the region – there are day-tour options, as well as multi-day trips that explore more of the UK.
Insider detail: The filming of Downton Abbey helped fund extensive restoration work on the castle. Visitors today are seeing Highclere in its best condition in more than a century.
4. Iceland: Game of Thrones, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Why production chose it: Iceland’s stark, untamed beauty gave fantasy and sci-fi films a real-world backdrop that feels otherworldly. The black-sand beaches, glacial cliffs and volcanic landscapes brought Game of Thrones and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty to life in a way that no green screen ever could – but here, you can go north of the wall and actually come back!
Why it’s perfect to visit: The stunning landscapes of Iceland feel like a movie – from geysers and glacial lagoons to windswept coastlines.
Don’t miss: Visit Reynisfjara beach and its eerie basalt columns. Hike up to Skógafoss waterfall and, if you’re lucky, catch the northern lights dancing above.
Insider detail: There are short coach tours available from central Reykjavik, such as this one. Cruises are another great option for exploring Iceland’s stunning coastline.
5. South Korea – Squid Game, Parasite
Why production chose it: South Korea’s landscapes, from ultra-modern cities to serene countryside, offer incredible diversity for filmmakers. Its distinct visual style, deep culture and high production values have made it a favourite for K-dramas and global hits like Parasite and Squid Game.
Why it’s perfect to visit: As we’ve mentioned before in this story, South Korea is having a MOMENT. Whether you’re into stylish cafes, street food, serene temples or fashion-forward cityscapes, Korea has it all. Flights from New Zealand are increasingly accessible, and the country is clean, safe and packed with personality.
Don’t miss: In Seoul, visit Namsan Park – featured in Squid Game, and wander through the park’s many stunning trails. Explore street food heaven at Gwangjang Market and head to Bukchon Hanok Village and the famous Parasite stairs. On Jeju Island, cycle along the coastal roads or hike up Hallasan volcano, just like in Crash Landing on You.
What to look out for: It’s fast-paced and can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Learn a few basic phrases and download Korean transport apps to make navigating the city easier.
Insider detail: Seoul offers walking tours of K-drama filming spots, including iconic locations from Goblin, Itaewon Class and Hotel Del Luna. If you’re planning a holiday to South Korea, talk to your travel expert about a best of South Korea tour – from the hustle and bustle of Seoul to Busan’s coastal charm and the ancient heritage of Gyeongju.
6. Rome, India & Bali: Eat Pray Love
Why production chose it: Julia Roberts’ soul-searching journey in Eat Pray Love needed three visually and culturally distinct destinations to reflect love, spirituality, and self-discovery. From the sun-drenched trattorias of Rome to the serene ashrams of India and the lush, healing landscapes of Bali, each location became a character in its own right – bringing authenticity and atmosphere to Elizabeth Gilbert’s global quest.
Why it’s perfect to visit: Whether you’re chasing pasta and passion in Italy, seeking mindfulness in India, or looking to reset in a Balinese jungle retreat, Eat Pray Love offers a travel blueprint for the soul. Each spot delivers a different kind of transformation – one you can feel just by being there.
Don’t miss: Toss a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain, meditate at an ashram in India’s Uttar Pradesh region (Elizabeth’s was near Pataudi), and in Bali, find your own slice of paradise in Ubud – complete with rice paddies, healing waters, and open-air yoga shalas.
Set-jetting isn’t just about checking off film locations. It’s about stepping into stories you’ve loved and seeing the world through a new lens. These destinations don’t just look incredible, they make you feel like you’re part of a world you’ve loved from the comfort of your own home.
So guys, next time you finish binge-watching something unforgettable, don’t just hit “next episode.” Open a new tab, head to Flight Centre and let the screen guide your next adventure.