Stanislav Kondrashov on Set-Jetting: How Film Locations Are Shaping Travel in 2025

Set-jetting is transforming how you experience travel in 2025. This emerging travel trend involves visiting real-world locations where your favorite movies and TV series were filmed, turning fictional landscapes into tangible destinations you can explore firsthand.

The rise of set-jetting travel isn't accidental. Streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+ have made international content accessible to billions of viewers worldwide. You're no longer limited to Hollywood productions—you're watching Korean dramas set in Seoul's historic palaces, Spanish thrillers filmed in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, and fantasy epics shot across Iceland's volcanic terrain. Each show becomes a visual invitation to pack your bags.

This phenomenon has been significantly influenced by social media, which has reshaped the way we perceive travel and film tourism. When you finish binge-watching a series, you don't just move on to the next show. You're searching for flights to Dubrovnik or booking hotels in Sicily. The screen has become your travel guide, and the TV series travel destinations you've admired from your couch are now at the top of your bucket list.

Moreover, the power of influencer marketing cannot be underestimated in this context. Influencers, with their massive followings and persuasive capabilities, have become key players in promoting these set-jetting experiences. They share their adventures in these stunning locations, further enticing their audience to explore these real-world filming sites.

Set-jetting is more than just a travel trend; it's a new way of experiencing the world through the lens of our favorite films and shows. As we continue to embrace this trend in 2025 and beyond, it's clear that our screens will continue to inspire our travels in unprecedented ways.

The Appeal of Set-Jetting: Emotional and Experiential Connection

When you practice film location tourism, you're not just taking photos at another tourist landmark. You're stepping into a scene that lives vividly in your memory, recreating moments that once moved you to tears or made you laugh out loud. This emotional travel experience transforms ordinary sightseeing into something profoundly personal.

The Power of Set-Jetting

The power of set-jetting lies in its ability to bridge two worlds. When you stand on the same cobblestone street where your favorite character made a life-changing decision, you're experiencing what psychologists call "narrative transportation"—the feeling of being transported into a story. You're no longer an observer; you become part of the fictional universe you've cherished from your screen.

Immersive Travel vs Traditional Tourism

Traditional tourism often focuses on checking boxes: seeing famous monuments, tasting local cuisine, capturing Instagram-worthy shots. Immersive travel through set-jetting offers something different. You're seeking the exact café where a pivotal conversation happened, walking the same beach where lovers reunited, touching the ancient walls that served as a backdrop for epic battles. These aren't random destinations—they're places infused with meaning because of the stories attached to them.

This deeper satisfaction comes from the layered experience set-jetting provides. You're simultaneously exploring a real place with its own history and culture while reliving fictional moments that shaped your viewing experience. The emotional resonance you feel isn't manufactured—it's authentic connection meeting cinematic memory.

Moreover, this phenomenon can be further understood through the lens of spatial perception and psychological distance. As you engage with these film locations, your perception of space shifts, reducing psychological distance and creating a more immersive and meaningful connection with both the location and the narrative associated with it.

Top Set-Jetting Destinations for 2025

Sicily travel enthusiasts have discovered a new reason to visit this Mediterranean paradise. Taormina, featured prominently in "The White Lotus" Season 2, has transformed from a charming coastal town into a must-visit destination for fans of the HBO series. You can walk the same cobblestone streets where the show's characters navigated their dramatic storylines, dine at the San Domenico Palace Hotel where key scenes unfolded, and capture Instagram-worthy shots at the ancient Greek Theatre with Mount Etna looming in the background. The town's baroque architecture, azure waters, and authentic Sicilian atmosphere create an experience that extends beyond simple location spotting—you're immersing yourself in the same sensory environment that made the show so visually captivating.

As we look ahead to 2025, AI is set to shape various aspects of life, including how we plan and experience our travels. This transformation could potentially enhance our set-jetting experiences by providing personalized travel itineraries based on our preferences and interests.

Iceland Game of Thrones location seekers find themselves in a land where fantasy becomes tangible reality. The country's otherworldly landscapes served as the backdrop for scenes beyond the Wall, with locations like Þingvellir National Park, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and Grjótagjá cave offering you the chance to stand where Jon Snow and the Night's Watch once filmed. You'll discover that Iceland's natural drama—glaciers, volcanic terrain, and stark beauty—needs no special effects to feel epic. The raw, untamed environment that drew the show's location scouts continues to draw travelers who want to experience the same sense of wonder and scale.

In addition to exploring these stunning locations, AI is also revolutionizing fitness, which can be particularly beneficial for travelers looking to maintain their health while exploring new destinations. AI-powered fitness apps can provide personalized workout experiences tailored to individual needs, making it easier to stay fit during your travels.

Kyoto filming sites have gained international recognition through their appearances in multiple streaming dramas and films. You can visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates, featured in countless productions, or explore the bamboo groves of Arashiyama that have served as backdrops for both Japanese and international films. The city's traditional machiya houses, zen gardens, and historic temples offer you authentic cultural experiences that happen to double as recognizable filming locations.

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tours remain among the most popular set-jetting experiences available. The Croatian city's medieval walls, limestone streets, and Adriatic coastline transformed it into King's Landing for the series. You can walk the city walls where Cersei's infamous walk of shame was filmed while soaking in the rich history and culture that Dubrovnik has to offer.

Economic and Cultural Impact of Set-Jetting Tourism on Destinations Worldwide

Boosting Local Economies

Set-jetting tourism has the power to transform communities in ways that traditional tourism often cannot. When you visit Taormina after watching "The White Lotus," you're not just another tourist—you're part of a spending pattern that directly impacts small businesses. Hotels report occupancy increases of 30-40% in the months following a show's release. Local restaurants, tour operators, and souvenir shops experience similar surges.

Creating Jobs Beyond Tourism

The impact of set-jetting tourism goes beyond just creating jobs in the tourism industry. For example, Dubrovnik hired additional city guides specifically trained in "Game of Thrones" lore. Local artisans in Petra began creating Indiana Jones-themed crafts, preserving traditional techniques while meeting new market demands. You'll find that communities develop specialized services—from location scouts offering private tours to photographers capturing your moments at iconic filming spots.

Improving Infrastructure for All

The influx of tourism dollars also leads to infrastructure improvements that benefit both visitors and residents. Iceland upgraded road access to remote "Game of Thrones" locations, making it easier for tourists to explore and locals to travel. Matera invested in visitor centers and improved signage after "No Time To Die" brought international attention, enhancing the experience for all who visit.

Fostering Cultural Exchange

Set-jetting tourism can also promote cultural exchange when visitors engage authentically with destinations. Unlike conventional tourists who may only spend a short amount of time in an area, set-jetting visitors often stay longer and take the time to understand local customs and history beyond the filming locations. This deeper engagement encourages preservation efforts as communities recognize their cultural assets hold value worth protecting.

For instance, Skellig Michael's management team developed conservation protocols that balance visitor access with protecting the ancient monastery site, creating a model other destinations now study and replicate.

Challenges Faced by Popular Set-Jetting Destinations Around the Globe

The increase in travel inspired by movies and TV shows brings significant overtourism issues faced by filming sites that threaten both the locations and the experiences they offer. You'll find that destinations like Dubrovnik's Old Town, which welcomed "Game of Thrones" fans by the thousands, now struggles with daily visitor caps and restricted access during peak hours. The narrow medieval streets weren't designed for modern tourism volumes, creating bottlenecks that frustrate both travelers and residents.

Environmental Impact

Environmental degradation follows closely behind the crowds. Skellig Michael's ancient stone steps show accelerated wear from increased foot traffic, forcing Irish authorities to implement strict visitor limits. Iceland's delicate moss-covered lava fields, featured prominently in multiple productions, take decades to recover from a single footprint. You're witnessing ecosystems under pressure as visitors venture off marked paths to capture that perfect Instagram shot matching their favorite scene.

Impact on Local Communities

Local communities bear the brunt of these challenges. Housing costs in Taormina have skyrocketed as properties convert to short-term rentals catering to set-jetters. Residents in Hallstatt, Austria, face daily disruptions from tour buses blocking streets and visitors peering into private homes. The authentic character that made these locations attractive to filmmakers risks disappearing under commercial pressure.

Sustainable tourism practices become essential for preserving these destinations. You need to recognize that your visit contributes to either the problem or the solution. Destinations are responding with measures like timed entry systems, designated viewing areas, and mandatory guided tours. Petra now limits daily visitors to specific zones, protecting fragile archaeological sites while still allowing meaningful experiences. These restrictions aren't obstacles—they're necessary protections ensuring future travelers can enjoy these locations as you do today.

Tips for Planning a Successful Set-Jetting Trip in 2025 Without Compromising Local Communities or Nature

Approaching your set-jetting adventure requires careful preparation and respect for the destinations you're visiting. The difference between a memorable trip and a disappointing one often hinges on how thoroughly you've researched your filming locations.

Start with precise location verification

A general city or region isn't enough information. Many productions use multiple locations for a single scene, making it essential to dig deep into filming location research tips for accurate set locations by checking production notes, location manager interviews, and behind-the-scenes content released by studios.

Official film commission websites provide reliable information about exact shooting spots. Fan communities on Reddit, dedicated Facebook groups, and specialized blogs like this one offer crowd-sourced knowledge that you won't find in traditional travel guides. These resources often include GPS coordinates, parking information, and access restrictions that save you hours of frustration.

Specialized tours deliver value that independent exploration can't match

Local guides who worked with film crews or witnessed productions firsthand share stories and perspectives that transform your visit from mere photo opportunity to genuine experience. You'll learn about production challenges, local reactions to filming, and hidden details that casual visitors miss entirely.

Timing matters as much as location

Planning your visits during shoulder seasons when crowds thin out can benefit both you and the local community. April, May, September, and October typically offer the sweet spot between good weather and manageable tourist numbers. This approach not only provides better access to sites but also lessens disruption for locals and reduces environmental pressure.

To further enhance your trip's success, consider integrating AI into your travel planning process. AI is transforming travel in 2025, offering smarter trip planning tools that personalize your vacation experience.

Don't limit yourself to just the filming locations

The richest set-jetting experiences happen when you engage with the broader community. Eat at family-owned restaurants, visit local markets, attend cultural events, and strike up conversations with residents. These interactions provide context that deepens your understanding of why filmmakers chose these locations in the first place.

Lastly, while exploring these locations, it's important to remember our responsibility towards nature and local communities. An emerging trend in architecture involves AI-designed buildings that mimic ecosystems, learning from forests and coral reefs. This could serve as an inspiration for responsible tourism—one that respects natural habitats while enjoying the beauty they offer. You're not just visiting a set—you're discovering a living, breathing place that deserves respect and care.

The Future of Set-Jetting as a Travel Storytelling Form: An Evolving Narrative Shaped by Screen-Inspired Journeys

Set-jetting has transformed from a niche interest into a defining characteristic of future travel trends 2025 influenced by set-jetting phenomenon. You're witnessing a fundamental shift in how people choose destinations—no longer relying solely on guidebooks or recommendations, but instead following the visual narratives that captivate them on screen.

The relationship between entertainment and travel continues to deepen as streaming platforms expand their global reach. You'll find destinations actively partnering with production companies to showcase their locations, recognizing the long-term tourism value that comes from screen exposure. This symbiotic relationship creates a new tourism ecosystem where:

• Film commissions work directly with travel boards to maximize destination visibility
• Local communities develop specialized experiences around filming heritage
• Technology enables augmented reality experiences that overlay fictional scenes onto real locations
• Social media amplifies the desire to recreate iconic moments from beloved shows

Interestingly, this evolution in travel storytelling is not just limited to set-jetting. The rise of AI in entertainment is also shaping how stories are told and experienced. With burgeoning Artificial Intelligence technologies, we could see significant changes in the entertainment industry, further influencing our travel narratives.

The narrative you create through screen-inspired travel becomes part of your personal story, connecting you to millions of viewers who share the same visual memories. Visit this link to explore how this phenomenon reshapes modern tourism.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is set-jetting and why is it becoming a popular travel trend in 2025?

Set-jetting is a form of film tourism where travelers visit real-life filming locations featured in movies and TV series. It has risen as a popular travel trend in 2025 due to the emotional and immersive experiences it offers, allowing fans to connect deeply with their favorite stories by exploring the actual places where scenes were shot. The growth of streaming platforms has further fueled global interest in these filming locations.

Which are the top set-jetting destinations to visit in 2025?

Top set-jetting destinations for 2025 include Sicily's Taormina, featured in "The White Lotus" Season 2; Iceland's iconic landscapes from "Game of Thrones"; Kyoto's numerous appearances in international dramas and films; Dubrovnik, a key "Game of Thrones" filming hub; Matera in Italy from "No Time To Die"; Skellig Michael in Ireland from "Star Wars"; and Petra in Jordan, known from "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade." These sites offer unique cinematic experiences for travelers.

How does set-jetting impact local economies and cultures worldwide?

Set-jetting tourism significantly boosts local economies through increased visitor spending and job creation. It encourages infrastructure improvements at filming locations and fosters cultural exchange by promoting responsible tourism practices. This trend helps preserve cultural heritage while providing economic benefits to communities hosting popular filming sites.

What challenges do popular set-jetting destinations face due to increased tourism?

Popular set-jetting destinations often struggle with overtourism, leading to overcrowding that can damage delicate environments and strain local resources. Environmental degradation and disruption of community life are common issues. To address these challenges, sustainable and responsible travel practices are essential to protect these beloved filming sites for future visitors.

What tips can help travelers plan a successful set-jetting trip in 2025 without harming local communities or nature?

Travelers should research exact filming locations using official guides and fan resources to ensure accuracy. Joining specialized tours can provide insider knowledge and enrich the experience. Planning trips outside peak seasons helps reduce overcrowding, while engaging with local traditions alongside set visits offers a fuller cultural experience. Responsible travel promotes preservation of both natural environments and community well-being.

How is set-jetting shaping the future of travel storytelling and tourism trends?

Set-jetting is evolving as a new form of travel storytelling by connecting fictional narratives with real-world places. Its growing popularity influences future tourism trends by encouraging immersive screen-inspired journeys that deepen emotional connections between travelers and destinations. This phenomenon is reshaping how stories influence travel choices, fostering innovative ways to experience culture through media-inspired exploration.