What do movies and travelling have in common? They both offer people an escape. It could be an escape from reality, or an escape from your nine to five grind. Most people don’t have the luxury of time or even have the means to just drop everything they have going on in their lives, pack up their bags, and just leave.
So, the next best thing to catch a glimpse of what it’s like to be in a destination is by watching films. Some of these films may also inspire you to travel when the opportunity arises. And if you spend a lot of time binge-watching Netflix anyway, then you might as well make the most of your viewing pleasure.
Our good friends at Alpha Car Hire has recommended some of these movies that will hopefully encourage you to explore. We’re not going to have any spoilers here, but as soon as you finish reading this list, we suggest you get some popcorn, dim the lights, and start watching these travel-inspiring films straight away.
The Art of Travel
Released in 2008, The Art of Travel was filmed entirely on location. It features Christopher Masterson who plays a fresh high school graduate, Connor Layne. His character finds himself travelling to South America carrying just a little more than pocket change and a backpack.
Connor starts off sightseeing, and his trip eventually takes a drastic turn when he becomes part of a group that is attempting to hike through a wild jungle.
The Beach
Directed by Oscar-winning director, Danny Boyle, this 2000 adventure film stars Leonardo DiCaprio. For the ladies who wanted to see what Leo looked like before he made the dad bod famous, you should check this out. This movie features the gorgeous scenery of Thailand, Phuket, Bangkok, Krabi, and the crystal clear waters of Ko Phi Phi Le, which will immediately inspire you to go for a swim.
Tracks
This Australian drama film was released in 2013 and stars Mia Wasikowska and Adam Driver before he donned his Kylo Ren garb and held his red lightsabre. The movie is based on the memoir of Aussie writer Robyn Davidson, which chronicles her 1,700-mile journey on camels across the deserts of Western Australia.
Lost in Translation
Directed by Sophia Coppola, this movie is perfect for those who’ve always wanted to travel to Japan. This 2003 film features Bill Murray who plays an ageing American actor, and Scarlett Johansson, a young college grad. The pair forms an unlikely bond after crossing paths in the bustling city of Tokyo.
Wild
This critically acclaimed movie stars Reese Witherspoon who plays Cheryl Strayed, a woman who hiked more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail to escape the tragedies of her life. If you’re interested to see the Pacific Northwest in the US and how it’s like to survive and travel solo without leaving your coach, then this movie is for you.
Eat Pray Love
Another book adapted into a film, Eat Pray Love stars Julia Roberts playing Liz Gilbert, a woman who escapes from an unhappy marriage and travels the world to change her life. This movie was shot in various countries, including Italy, India, and Indonesia.
These are just some of the best travel movies you can binge-watch over the weekend. Hopefully, after watching all of them, you’ll be inspired to pack your bags and explore the world soon.
If you have your own favorite travel-inspiring films, we’d love to know. Please share them with us in the comments, and let us know why you absolutely love them.
