Movies do more than just entertain—they inspire people to explore new places. Whether it’s a stunning landscape or a charming city street, film locations often spark curiosity and turn into real-life travel destinations. This trend, known as movie tourism or set-jetting, has boosted tourism in unexpected places, bringing both opportunities and challenges. While it helps local economies, it also raises concerns about overcrowding and sustainability.
Read this article to learn how the film industry influences travel.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “backdrop” mean? “For example, movies like “The Lord of the Rings” series sparked a tourism boom in New Zealand, with many fans wanting to experience the landscapes that served as the backdrop for the films. Make a sentence with this word.
- Define “intertwine“. “Cinema and tourism are two industries that have long been intertwined, with each influencing the other in various ways.” Use this in a sentence.
- What’s the meaning of “multifaceted“? “The relationship between cinema and tourism is a complex and multifaceted one, with each industry influencing and benefiting from the other in various ways.” Make a sentence with this word.
Discussion Questions:
- In what ways does the film industry shape people’s travel decisions?
- What difficulties do popular filming locations experience as a result of increased tourism?
- How can destinations balance the benefits of movie tourism while ensuring sustainable tourism practices?
- Do you think movie tourism has more positive or negative effects? Why?
- How do movies represent different cultures, and do they inspire you to learn more about other countries?