Reel to Real: Discover Destinations from Your Favourite Shows

The allure of the screen extends beyond entertainment, inspiring a new wave of travel where destinations become living movie sets. This “set-jetting” trend invites travellers to immerse themselves in the worlds of their favourite stories, transforming passive viewers into active participants.

Samujana – Koh Samui, Thailand 

“The White Lotus” Season Three, now airing since its February premiere has kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The TV series features Samujana, showcasing its iconic villas and Koh Samui landscapes. The series has brought the resort’s distinct blend of high-end comfort and dramatic tropical settings directly to viewers, sparking a surge in interest for those seeking the “White Lotus” experience.

The chance to step directly into the world seen on screen is available through a stay in the very villas showcased in the series, complete with private infinity pools and sweeping ocean views. Tailored adventures, including private cruise excursions and bespoke in-villa dining, recreate the show’s lavish lifestyle.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – St. Moritz, Switzerland

“The Residence” presents a high-stakes drama set within the iconic, albeit fictionalized, White House, captivating audiences with its portrayal of power and intrigue. While the series’ setting is distinctly American, the real-world connection lies with Bronson Pinchot, who plays Didier Gotthard and previously worked at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz.

While the series’ setting differs, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel  offers a comparable refined sojourn. Its grand lobby, world-class skiing, and top-tier dining provide a taste of high-end living, mirroring the series’ opulent lifestyles against breathtaking alpine scenery.

St. Moritz, Graubunden, Switzerland

In one of the episodes of “The Residence,” Detective Cordelia Cupp exclaims, “The Glacier Express! The train from St. Moritz to Zermatt.” Noting the view from the huge windows along the way, the series highlights this iconic train journey as a key element of the region’s allure, showcasing the breathtaking connection between St. Moritz and Zermatt through the dramatic alpine landscapes.

Embarking on the train odyssey into Graubunden from historic Chur to glamorous St. Moritz and onward to Zermatt unveils unforgettable alpine scenery. This route reveals panoramic vistas of soaring peaks and charming villages. Beyond this scenic transit, the region beckons with world-class ski resorts and invigorating trails, promising a deeper immersion into the alpine splendour that captivated Detective Cupp.

Baur au Lac – Zurich, Switzerland

Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” brought cinematic attention to Zurich, showcasing locations like the Grossmünster and the University of Zurich, which served as backdrops for pivotal scenes. The film’s portrayal of Zurich’s intellectual and historical depth has sparked a renewed interest in exploring these significant sites.

A stay at Baur au Lac places one in an ideal position to trace “Oppenheimer’s” cinematic footsteps. From the hotel, the Grossmünster is a short walk, and the University of Zurich is easily accessible by tram, allowing for a deep dive into the film’s locations. After a day of exploration, Baur au Lac offers a luxurious retreat, embodying Zurich’s intellectual and artistic treasures.

Cheval Blanc Paris – Paris, France

“Emily in Paris” has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring viewers to immerse themselves in the city’s chic elegance and romantic charm. Notably, Season 2 features a perfume-themed party at the newly revamped La Samaritaine, a striking Art Nouveau building showcased with its iconic glass roof and peacock fresco. The show’s use of this location, which reopened after a 16-year closure, highlights the city’s blend of historical beauty and contemporary luxury.

Cheval Blanc Paris, located within the Samaritaine itself, offers the perfect setting for recreating Emily’s Parisian adventures. Gourmet dining, designer boutique explorations within the department store, and romantic Seine strolls are just a few ways to enjoy Parisian luxury, directly within a location featured in the show.

Royal Mansour Collection – Morocco

With Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II” on the horizon, the dramatic landscapes and grandeur of Morocco are set to captivate audiences once again. While the film’s narrative centers on Rome, its production took place in Ouarzazate, Morocco, showcasing the region’s historical settings. This connection to a major cinematic production underscores the allure of Morocco’s landscapes for epic storytelling.

To absorb the grandeur seen on screen, leverage Royal Mansour Collection’s presence in both Marrakech and Casablanca, which serve as convenient starting points for travel to Ouarzazate. From these locations, Ouarzazate is accessible by flight, allowing for exploration of the film’s shooting locations.