TEN FILMS THAT WILL SPARK YOUR WANDERLUST

, travel

(by guest blogger Jason Biondo)  Have you ever watched an inspiring film that gave you a serious case of wanderlust?  Movies are, in my book, one of the most influential and powerful mediums for inspiring a trip to a far-off place. From awe-inspiring landscapes to blissful and memorable adventures, movies can in many ways give you an irresistible urge to travel and see the world. As a matter of fact, motion pictures have encouraged countless of moviegoers from all corners of the world to duplicate some of the scenes they’ve seen on the big screen with their own escapades.

Looking for an inspiration for your next vacation? Check out this list of movies that have moved thousands of travelers to places all over the world in search of their own heavenly picture-perfect paradise.

Wild

Wild is the inspirational and heartwarming story of Cheryl Strayed – a courageous young woman who went on an eye-opening 1000-mile journey across the US, in the wake of her mother’s passing. Even though Cheryl had no previous experience in backpacking and solo traveling, she still was able to survive, flourish and conquer the famous Pacific Crest Trail on her own with very little help. Filmed in Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park and other picturesque places, this epic travel movie also romanticized the unforgiving and magnificent grandeur of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump, often revered as one of the most inspiring films of all time, takes you to a one-of-a-kind emotional rollercoaster that highlights the jaw-dropping beauty of Georgia, South Carolina, and Utah.  What’s more, the film reminds us that life, just like a box of chocolates, is full of wonderful surprises and adventures. 

Mamma Mia!

Getting married soon? Mamma Mia, starring the lovely Amanda Seyfried and Meryl Streep, has made Greece’s scenic islands a favorite destination among newlyweds and soon-to-be-married couples.  Mesmerized by the movie’s breathtaking scenery, a number of fans worldwide have booked trips to this surreal Mediterranean paradise to spend their honeymoon or have their own Big Fat Greek Wedding.

Thelma and Louise

Thelma and Louise is a feel-good narrative of two girlfriends who decided to ditch their boring lives, and go on a fun adventure-filled road escapade in a classic 1966 Thunderbird. Aside from its colorful and wanderlust-inducing story, the film also flaunted a few beautiful spots in Colorado, California and Utah.

The Darjeeling Limited

Three troubled brothers decide to embark on train trip across India in hopes to reconnect with each other, a year after their father’s death.  Starring Owen Wilson, Jason Schwartzman and Adrien Brody, this hilarious travel film flaunts the unique colors, intriguing culture and beautiful chaos of India.

Under the Tuscan Sun

Based on the memoir of Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun is the compelling story of a newly divorced female American who found her bliss by venturing off to Tuscany to buy and restore an old villa.  Under the Tuscan Sun, of course, inspired many travel junkies to seek out the movie’s locations in the striking countryside. Plus, there has been a reported population increase in Tuscany’s expats, who are following in the footsteps of Maye, and buying properties in the same area.

Eat Pray Love

Eat Pray Love is a globally renowned book-turned-film that has encouraged millions of folks to see and experience the world with an open heart and mind. Likewise, it is a terrific travel film that will motivate you to challenge yourself and take a step outside your comfort zone. To top it all off, it’s a beautiful movie that displays the beauty and charm of Italy, India and Bali.

Into The Wild

Into The Wild, even though it didn’t have a fairytale ending, is a beloved flick that has been firmly anchored in the hearts of many backpackers and travelers around the world.  Often heralded as the best travel film of all time, Into The Wild encapsulates the feeling of adventure, spontaneity and freedom that comes with backpacking and solo travel. After watching the film, you’ll surely have a feeling that you can travel the world even if you got absolutely no money.

The Motorcycle Diaries

The Motorcycle Diaries is an admirable 2004 biopic that recounts the life-changing road trip of a young Che Guevara, way before he became a revolutionary South American icon. Filmed in Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia, Chile, Peru and Argentina, the film was is not only inspirational and thought-provoking, but it also captures South America’s irresistible beauty.

Roman Holiday

Featuring an elegant and young Audrey Hepburn, the Roman Holiday is a classic black-and-white movie that features Rome in the 1950s, through the eyes of a gorgeous sheltered princess who falls head over heels for an American man. Of course, the flick was shot in a variety of iconic sites and landmarks throughout Rome.