Set-Jetting: The Magic of Traveling to Film and TV Locations

There’s an undeniable allure to stepping into the very places that once hosted the flicker of a camera, the whispers of dialogue, the magic that transforms a blank street into the backdrop of an iconic scene. This enchanting phenomenon, known as set-jetting, has surged into a beloved travel trend—one that melds cinematic fantasy with authentic wanderlust.

I remember the first time I found myself tracing the steps of a beloved character, standing where the camera once rolled. It was not just about visiting a famous city or ticking off landmarks; it was about immersing myself in stories that had sparked laughter, heartbreak, and wonder. The world on screen suddenly leapt off the television and became my world to explore.

The Heartbeat of Set-Jetting

Set-jetting is a beautiful dance between fiction and reality. Imagine wandering through the windswept moors where “Wuthering Heights” came alive or sipping espresso in the exact cafe where a critical scene of “La La Land” unfolded. For cinephiles and casual viewers alike, these journeys weave a deeper connection to beloved stories, transforming mere interest into a soulful pilgrimage.

It is in these moments, where the tangible environment breathes life into imagined worlds, that you realize the power of place in storytelling. Set locations become relics of cultural memory, sanctuaries for fans, and playgrounds for adventurers like myself.

Immersive Storytelling Beyond the Screen

One of my most vivid experiences came while exploring the ancient streets of Dubrovnik, Croatia—famously known as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. The narrow, sun-dappled alleyways, the towering city walls, the rumbling echoes of footsteps on well-worn stone—all these details turned a mere visit into stepping through a portal. Suddenly, I wasn’t just a tourist; I was a part of the story, aching for a glimpse of dragons in the sky or the whispered schemes of the characters who once roamed these streets.

Set-jetting thrives on this sense of wonder. It invites travelers to don a new perspective, to see locations not just as destinations but as narrative landscapes. The cascading vineyards of Tuscany that featured in Under the Tuscan Sun become a place of renewed hope and enchantment, stirring a desire to experience the romance and healing the film radiates.

Why We Chase Scenes

There’s a unique blend of nostalgia, curiosity, and escapism that drives set-jetting. These journeys offer a quiet escape from the ordinary, where the mundane transforms into movie magic. But beyond that, set-jetting connects us with local culture on an authentic level. To truly understand a location’s role in storytelling, you must interact with its people, traditions, and landscapes.

When I traveled to New Zealand to witness the sheer grandeur of Middle-earth through The Lord of the Rings lens, it wasn’t only about recognizable scenery but also about the warmth of the locals and the untouched natural beauty that inspired the filmmakers. That synthesis of story and setting was unforgettable.

The Temples, Cafes, and Streets That Become Timeless

From the romantic canals of Venice immortalized in countless classics to the bustling, neon-lit streets of Tokyo showcased in modern anime, every film or TV location offers a unique palette of colors, emotions, and histories. When you embrace these destinations through set-jetting, you are also journeying through time—inviting yourself to witness the present through the lens of the past or future imagined by artists.

“The film set isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character itself, with stories waiting to unfold for those who dare to explore.”

Embracing Set-Jetting Responsibly

With the rising popularity of set-jetting, it’s vital to approach these travels with respect. Many filming sites are cherished by local communities or natural habitats that deserve preservation. Being a mindful traveler means appreciating not only the cinematic value but also honoring environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivities.

When I visit these places, I try to leave nothing but footprints and take home only memories and photographs. It’s a delicate balance between relishing the magic and protecting the authenticity so future travelers can share in the wonder.

Your Own Set-Jetting Adventure

Whether it’s the misty hills of Scotland from Outlander, the sun-drenched streets of Santa Barbara from Sideways, or the haunting beauty of Iceland where Game of Thrones roamed wild, set-jetting offers an exhilarating invitation to step beyond the screen and into a living storybook.

As a wandering storyteller, I’ve found that these journeys are not just about places but about reconnecting with the emotions and dreams that drew us to these films and shows in the first place. Set-jetting isn’t simply a travel trend—it’s a heartfelt, sensory way to rediscover the world through the lens of imagination.

— Marco Santiago

Marco Santiago