Movies that Inspire Travel

Arthur Frommer and companions recently named the top 10 movies of 2006 that inspire traveling. As the Oscars approach, it’s an idea I wish I would have thought of. So instead of making a list of 2006 travel inspiring movies, I’m going to remix the list idea and allow the list to include all movies made in the “modern movie era” (not really sure what the dates actually are, because I made it up)

The Top 6 Movies that Inspire Travel

6. Aladdin - Seriously, who hasn’t wished they could soar above a beautiful Arabic kingdom after watching the movie? Laugh all you want, but you know I’m right. I will, however, refrain from including any more Disney cartoon movies.

5. Dances with Wolves - South Dakota - Had to include this movie as it was made in my backyard. Kevin Costner did an amazing job making a areas consisting of nothing (called prairies) look majestic and beautiful.

4.The Da Vinci Code - Paris, London, UK- The Da Vinci Code undoubtedly drove a lot of travelers and tourists to the churches and other locations mentioned in the movie. The Louvre in Paris (pictured below) is one of those places that had a role in the movie.

3. Lost in Translation - Tokyo - aka the most boring good movie I’ve ever seen. Its depiction of the Japanese culture and its stunning views of Tokyo fascinated me.

2. Pirates of the Caribbean - shot all over the place, including St. Vincent, Grand Bahama Island, Dominica, and the Exumas - The beach and lagoon scenes in both of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies makes spring breakers salivate for warm weather and tequila.

1. The Lord of The Rings Trilogy - New Zealand - Unbelievable setting in New Zealand never ceases to captivate me when I watch them. This really put New Zealand on the map for me. I love it. Now if only I could go there…

So there’s my short list. Links on images go to copyright holders. I’m sure I’ve left out many, many inspiring travel movies. Feel free to mention your favorite movie in the comments.