In recent years, the world of travel has witnessed an exciting new trend that blends the magic of cinema with the thrill of exploration: Set-Jetting. This phenomenon, which refers to the practice of visiting real-world locations featured in films and TV shows, is reshaping the way people think about travel. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, film and television have the power to transform an ordinary destination into a must-visit hotspot. In this article, we will delve into how set jetting is influencing travel trends, its impact on tourism, and the future of this dynamic travel movement.
The Rise of Set-Jetting: What is it?
Set jetting is the act of visiting destinations that have been prominently featured in popular films and television shows. While many travelers have always been drawn to famous landmarks and tourist attractions, set jetting adds a layer of personal connection to the experience. Travelers aren’t just visiting a location; they are stepping into the scenes of their favorite movies and shows, allowing them to relive memorable moments and immerse themselves in the cinematic world.
This trend has gained significant traction in recent years, fueled by the ever-expanding influence of television series and blockbuster films. The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ has made content more accessible than ever before, providing viewers with endless hours of television and film content, often set in exotic or unique locations. As viewers form deep connections with these settings, it is only natural for them to want to see these places in person.
Set jetting differs from traditional tourism in that it is often driven by an emotional connection to the on-screen narrative, characters, and settings. For example, fans of the popular TV series “Game of Thrones” flocked to Croatia to visit the breathtaking coastal town of Dubrovnik, which served as the fictional city of King’s Landing. Similarly, the Netflix series “The Crown” has prompted visitors to explore the historic landmarks of London and the surrounding countryside, following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II and her royal family.
How Set-Jetting is Shaping the Future of Travel
Set jetting is reshaping the future of travel in several ways. Below are some key factors that highlight the impact of set jetting on the travel industry:
1. Boosting Tourism in Lesser-Known Destinations
One of the most exciting aspects of set jetting is its ability to shine a spotlight on lesser-known destinations. While many travelers are familiar with iconic cities like Paris, New York, or London, set jetting has introduced many people to lesser-visited areas that may not have traditionally been on the radar. These are often places that become popular only after being featured in a beloved film or series.
For example, the picturesque village of Meteora in Greece became a set jetting hotspot after being featured in the James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only” (1981). Once a quiet and secluded location, Meteora saw a surge in tourism thanks to its appearance on the silver screen. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and continues to attract visitors from around the world who wish to experience its unique rock formations and centuries-old monasteries.
Similarly, the island of Isla Mujeres in Mexico saw a spike in tourism after the success of the film “The Bounty” (1984), which was partly filmed there. The movie’s portrayal of the island as a tropical paradise turned the location into a sought-after destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and cinematic beauty.
2. Enhancing the Travel Experience
Set jetting offers a unique form of cultural immersion. Instead of simply visiting a location, set-jetters are able to see the world through the lens of their favorite stories. This type of travel allows people to feel like they are part of the narrative, as they walk through the same streets, visit the same landmarks, and experience the same surroundings as the characters they have grown to love.
A prime example of this is the success of New Zealand as a set jetting destination after the release of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Peter Jackson’s films showcased the country’s stunning natural landscapes, from its lush forests to its snow-capped mountains. Fans of the films flocked to New Zealand to visit Hobbiton, the real-life movie set of the Shire, and to take guided tours of the iconic locations where the films were shot.
Set jetting allows tourists to delve deeper into the culture, history, and geography of a place. Whether it’s visiting the streets of New York City, where scenes from “Friends” or “Sex and the City” were filmed, or exploring the beautiful landscapes of Iceland, which doubled as the location of the hit series “Game of Thrones,” the connections formed through set jetting make for a richer, more personal travel experience.
3. Social Media Influence and Viral Trends
Social media plays a significant role in the growth of the set jetting trend. Travelers are increasingly documenting their set jetting experiences and sharing them on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This creates a viral effect, inspiring others to visit the same locations and engage in the same experiences.
For instance, the popularity of the “Friends” TV show has led to a new wave of set jetting in New York City, as fans visit the Central Perk café and other iconic filming locations. Social media influencers and travel bloggers have contributed to this trend by showcasing their experiences at these sites, offering tips and recommendations to their followers.
Similarly, the success of the “Bridgerton” series has sparked a surge in visits to historic sites in London and the English countryside, where the period drama is filmed. Social media has allowed fans to explore these locations virtually, sharing their favorite moments and inspiring others to embark on their own set-jetting adventures.
4. Promoting Sustainable Travel Practices
While set-jetting often drives tourism to popular filming locations, it has also encouraged more responsible and sustainable travel practices. The increasing interest in lesser-known destinations and off-the-beaten-path locations provides an opportunity for travelers to explore new areas without overburdening well-established tourist sites.
Set-jetting also offers an opportunity for local communities to benefit economically from tourism without the negative effects of mass tourism. By promoting lesser-visited locations and highlighting their cultural and historical significance, set-jetting helps to distribute tourism more evenly across a country or region, reducing the environmental impact on overcrowded tourist hotspots.
Moreover, set-jetting can inspire people to choose slower forms of travel, such as taking scenic train journeys or visiting locations that promote eco-tourism, further supporting sustainable travel efforts.
Popular Set-Jetting Locations and Their Appeal
There are numerous destinations that have been made famous through films and TV shows. Here are a few notable examples of set-jetting locations and the reasons behind their popularity:
- New York City, USA – Known as the “city that never sleeps,” New York City has been the backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, including “Friends,” “Sex and the City,” and “The Great Gatsby.” The city’s iconic landmarks, such as Central Park, Times Square, and the Empire State Building, have become inseparable from the stories that were filmed there.
- Iceland – Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes were brought to life in the epic fantasy series “Game of Thrones.” Fans of the show can visit dramatic locations like Thingvellir National Park, which served as the site of the Great Hall of the Red Keep, and the stunning Vatnajökull Glacier, which appeared in many iconic scenes.
- Paris, France – Paris has long been a favorite destination for filmmakers, and films like “Amélie” and “The Da Vinci Code” have fueled the city’s allure. Set-jetting in Paris involves exploring world-famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, all while walking in the footsteps of cinematic legends.
- The Scottish Highlands, UK – Fans of the hit series “Outlander” have flocked to Scotland to explore the picturesque landscapes that served as the backdrop for the show’s time-traveling drama. Locations such as Doune Castle and Culloden Battlefield have become must-visit spots for fans of the show.
The Future of Set-Jetting
As the entertainment industry continues to expand and create new content, set-jetting is expected to grow in popularity. With the rise of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, travelers may soon be able to experience immersive cinematic worlds in entirely new ways, further blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
In the future, set-jetting may evolve into a more interactive and customizable experience. Rather than just visiting filming locations, travelers might be able to participate in immersive tours or even recreate their favorite movie scenes through virtual experiences. This could open up new possibilities for how travelers engage with cinematic destinations and explore the world in ways previously imagined only in films.
Conclusion: The Magic of Set-Jetting
Set-jetting has transformed the way people experience travel, allowing them to connect with the stories they love and the places that bring those stories to life. As this trend continues to grow, it will undoubtedly shape the future of tourism by inspiring travelers to explore new destinations, discover hidden gems, and form deeper connections with the world around them. The magic of cinema is no longer confined to the screen—it’s now an integral part of the travel experience.