Many of us watch movies and wish we could bring them to life, especially when they’re set somewhere mesmerising, with all their beautiful scenery and iconic locations. I’m sure we can all look back at those blockbuster movies and remember not only the screenplay being played out, but the landscape always sticks in the mind too.
From New Zealand in Lord of the Rings where you could visit Mount Earnslaw, on the south of the island, which provided the setting for the opening sequence of The Two Towers. Right back to that beautiful country on our left, Northern Ireland, where you can explore some of the scenes from Game of Thrones, such as Dunluce Castle which was the setting for Pyke Castle in the series.
There are many of the best road trips from famous movies that people have followed over the years. For me though, nothing stands out more than Thailand in the film, The Beach, ans ever since seeing that film, it has been my dream destination to go to.
With a little explanation, Thailand is a Southeast Asian country which is known for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples displaying figures of Buddha. And to be a total opposite to that, Bangkok, the capital, an ultramodern cityscape that is like nothing else.
Thailand played the setting for The Beach and if, like me, you loved the beautiful surroundings in that movie, then you could actually go on a sightseeing adventure of your own. A road trip of the films well known locations, would see you starting in Phuket to stay at The Memory at On On Hotel, or in room 204 at this backpacker’s hostel which was the resting place of Richard during his stay in Bangkok.
And obviously, you simply cannot go to Thailand without visiting the beaches, hence the name of the film too, and pristine Maya Bay, is one of the main settings used throughout the film, which is probably what it’s most famous for. Can you imagine, playing out the scenes in your head as your wander down the luscious beach with crystal clear waters underfoot.
As Maya Bay is unihabited and on the remote island of Koh Phi Phi Le, you’ll need to charter a Thai Long-tail boat in order to reach the secluded bay. Or many boat tours will include a stop at this pristine and magical beach! I’d reccomemd Five Star Thailand Tours who offer private Phi Phi Island Tour packages from both Phuket and Phi Phi Don Island itself so even if you’re staying in room 204, you’ll still be able to get over to Phi Phi Islands to see Di’Caprios famous beach!
To really get into the film scenery, Haeo Suwat Falls, is where it’s at. This majestic waterfall is where Leonardo’s waterfall jump happens and is such a spectacular setting. One tip though, don’t go towards the end of the dry season otherwise you may end up just seeing a trickle rather than the full force of the waterfall.
I mean, to be honest, I’d quite happily explore this whole country as Thailand as always looked so beautiful, and such a peaceful place. What do you think, what famous movie location would you love to visit?
Wow – your adventures will be amazing
We love going to towns and cities, but we choose where to go before looking at what films have been shot there. San Francisco is our favourite for film location places.
A fun way to choose a travel destination. I have always fancied visiting Pitcairn Island after watching Mutiny on the Bounty.
I wou”d love to see New York at Christmas
I would definitely love to visit the Game of Thrones locations. My niece went last year to Croatia and went on a GoT tour there but had never watched it! Typical x
I love going to Spain, but away from the tourist places, love going inland to see how the real Spanish people live
This is a fab idea I really want to see the pyramids in Egypt
This is such a cool idea. I'd love to go to New Zealand (Lord of the Rings!)
Such a great idea x