Top 10 films to inspire travel

How many times have you watched a movie and thought to yourself, ‘That place looks amazing, I wish I could go there’?

We all know it’s not always possible to pack up your bags and trek across the globe in the blink of an eye. At times like this movies are an excellent way to experience the romantic landscapes and exotic cultures of the foreign kind, as well as providing you with a glimpse of a world that could be yours in a mere couple of hours.

As a lover of cinema it is hard to choose from the array of fantastic films that stir up one’s nomadic desires. However, whether you’re reminiscing about the good old times or searching for inspiration for your next escape from reality, here are the top 10 films that have sparked the spirit of travel in my humble heart.

1. Amelie – France

How could this quirky movie not be included in this list? Everyone loves the charming French girl with the travelling gnome.

2. After – Spain

Ignoring the sombre message and the blatant drug-taking, this film reveals that the Spanish know how to have a good time with their endless fiestas, despite all the familiar troubles of daily life. (This trailer isn’t G rated. Kids and employers, close your eyes.)

3. In the Mood For Love – Hong Kong

The most vivid memory I have of this film is the way colour was used so elegantly to portray the various emotions of the film. One can almost taste the heat of the city and smell the broth of the noodles consumed by the main characters in every changing shade.

4. Hero – China

Beautiful landscapes of China are captured in this film. Breathtaking scenes.

5. Goodbye Lenin – Germany

In an endearing and almost comical manner, this film tells us the story of how one family is affected by the fall of the Berlin Wall. It gives us an overview of what life is like both sides of the divide.

6. Cinema Paradiso – Italy

Celebrate cinema through the eyes of a young boy, with charming Italian streets you’ll want to stroll through.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=wEFugVbzsSo

7. Up In the Air – USA

George Clooney shows us what it’s like to live out of a suitcase, literally. It’s sometimes sad, often poignant, and something every traveller can relate to.

8. Before Sunrise – Austria

The movie that first inspired me to wander by myself all around Europe. A girl meets the potential love of her life and discusses hopes and dreams while travelling alone on a train through wonderful European cities. If this is not the most ridiculously romantic notion to inspire anyone to travel, what is?

9. Lord Of The Rings Trilogy – New Zealand

After watching this movie, I immediately wanted to jump onto the next flight to New Zealand just so I could go horseback riding through the amazing landscapes with Frodo.

10. Lost in Translation – Japan

Relive Bill Murray’s experiences at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and order their theme drink L.I.T. Hopefully you’ll have as hilarious a time as he did.

Do you have a favourite movie that has inspired you to travel?