1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

I'm cutting straight to the chase here with one of my very favorites. Set against breathtaking backdrops spanning Iceland, Greenland, and Afghanistan, this film follows the adventures of an ordinary man (Ben Stiller) who daydreams his way into extraordinary circumstances. Walter Mitty's journey takes him on a wild ride, from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Iceland's rugged terrain. Its stunning visuals and whimsical storyline inspire viewers to embrace the unknown and embark on their own epic adventures.

2. The Way

Filmed along the picturesque Camino de Santiago in Spain, this film follows a father's (Martin Sheen) transformative pilgrimage after the death of his son. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters and discovers the beauty of life's unexpected twists and turns.

The stunning landscapes of the Spanish countryside serve as a backdrop for introspection and self-discovery, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration and a sense of adventure.

After having completed El Camino myself in 2018, I have an even deeper regard for this film and how wonderfully it captured the experience of a pilgrim.

3. Into the Wild

Based on a true story, this film takes viewers on a journey through the rugged wilderness of North America. From the snow-capped mountains of Alaska to the vast expanses of the American West, protagonist Christopher McCandless (Emlile Hirsch) seeks meaning and freedom in the untamed wilderness. Into the Wild reminds us of the allure of nature and the importance of finding our own path in life, even if it means venturing off the beaten track.

4. Under the Tuscan Sun

Set amidst the sun-drenched landscapes of Tuscany, Italy, this film follows a woman's (Diane Lane) journey of self-discovery after impulsively buying a villa in the Italian countryside. As she immerses herself in the local culture and embraces the beauty of her surroundings, she finds healing and new beginnings. Under the Tuscan Sun captures the essence of la dolce vita, enticing viewers with its picturesque scenery and heartwarming story of love and renewal.

Oh, and yes you will be ready to drop everything and buy a house in Italy.

5. Eat. Pray. Love.

rom the bustling streets of New York City to Italy, India, and Indonesia, this film takes viewers on a soul-searching journey across the globe. Based on Elizabeth Gilbert's (Julia Roberts) memoir, it chronicles her quest for self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment after a painful divorce. 

With its vibrant depictions of exotic locales and themes of personal growth and empowerment, Eat. Pray. Love. inspires viewers to embrace life's adventures and pursue their own paths to happiness.

6. The Beach

Filmed on location in Thailand, The Beach transports viewers to the idyllic shores of a secluded paradise hidden from the outside world. As protagonist Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) discovers a secret beach community, he becomes entangled in a thrilling adventure filled with beauty and danger. 

The film's stunning visuals and exotic setting capture the imagination, inviting viewers to dream of escaping to their own tropical paradise.

7. Lost in Translation

Set against the backdrop of Tokyo, Japan, Lost in Translation follows the unlikely bond formed between two strangers (Scarlett Johannsen and Bill Murray) amidst the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city. As they navigate the cultural differences and isolation of being in a foreign land, they find solace and companionship in each other's company. 

With its atmospheric depiction of Tokyo's neon-lit streets and poignant exploration of human connection, Lost in Translation resonates with travelers who have experienced the thrill of getting lost in a new city, as well as the unexpected connection you find along the way.

8. Before Sunrise Trilogy

The Before Sunrise trilogy, consisting of Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, and Before Midnight, offers viewers a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of two individuals as they navigate the complexities of love, connection, and the passage of time. Set against the picturesque backdrops of Vienna, Paris, and the Peloponnese region of Greece, each film in the trilogy unfolds in real-time, capturing the raw emotions and evolving relationship between Jesse and Celine.

In Before Sunrise, we meet Jesse and Celine, two strangers who meet on a train and spend a magical night exploring Vienna together. As they wander the city streets and engage in deep conversations about life, love, and everything in between, they form a deep and profound connection that lingers long after their night together comes to an end. Before Sunrise is a testament to the power of human connection and the fleeting beauty of chance encounters, leaving viewers captivated by the possibilities of love and serendipity.

In Before Sunset, we reunite with Jesse and Celine nine years later in Paris, where they cross paths once again and confront the lingering feelings and unresolved questions from their past. As they wander the streets of Paris, rekindling old memories and sharing new insights, they grapple with the passage of time and the choices that have shaped their lives. Before Sunset is a poignant meditation on love, regret, and the bittersweet nature of second chances, leaving viewers spellbound by the emotional depth and authenticity of Jesse and Celine's journey.

I’m late to the show on these and just watched them this year for the first time. And wow. These films left an incredibly strong impact on me and I envy anyone who has yet to ex

9. The Darjeeling Limited

Set against the backdrop of India's vibrant landscapes, The Darjeeling Limited follows three estranged brothers (Adrian Brody, Owen Wilson, and Jason Schwartzman) on a train journey across the country as they attempt to reconnect with each other and themselves. 

Along the way, they encounter a series of colorful characters and embark on a transformative adventure filled with humor and heartache. The film's stunning visuals and rich cultural tapestry offer a glimpse into the beauty and chaos of India, inviting viewers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery.

10. Midnight in Paris

Set in the romantic streets of Paris, France, Midnight in Paris follows a disillusioned writer (Owen Wilson) who finds himself transported back in time to the city's bohemian heyday of the 1920s. As he mingles with literary giants and artists of the past, he discovers the magic of nostalgia and the allure of bygone eras. With its enchanting depiction of Parisian landmarks and whimsical storyline, Midnight in Paris captures the imagination and stirs a sense of wonder in the City of Light.

11. Seven Years in Tibet

 Filmed on location in the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet and Argentina, Seven Years in Tibet follows the true story of Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer's (Brad Pitt) journey of self-discovery and friendship with the Dalai Lama. As Harrer immerses himself in Tibetan culture and embraces the beauty of the Himalayas, he undergoes a profound transformation. The film's epic scope and majestic scenery offer viewers a glimpse into a world of both spiritual enlightenment and adventure.

12. The Holiday

This charming romantic comedy takes viewers on a transatlantic journey from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the quaint countryside of Surrey, England. As two women (Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet) swap homes for the holidays in search of a change of scenery, they find unexpected love and new beginnings. The film's picturesque settings and heartwarming story of self-discovery and romance make it a delightful escape for travelers seeking a feel-good adventure.

If this isn’t on your annual Christmas film list, it definitely should be. 

13. The Bucket List

Set against the backdrop of stunning locations like the Egyptian pyramids and the Taj Mahal in India, The Bucket List follows two terminally ill men (Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman) who embark on a journey to fulfill their lifelong dreams before they kick the bucket. As they travel the world and check off items on their list, they discover the true meaning of life and friendship. The film's poignant exploration of living life to the fullest and seizing the moment resonates with viewers of all ages, inspiring them to chase their dreams with passion and purpose.

14. Out of Africa

Filmed on location in Kenya and Zimbabwe, Out of Africa transports viewers to the breathtaking landscapes of the African continent. Based on the memoir of author Karen Blixen (Meryl Streep), the film chronicles her tumultuous love affair with a charismatic big-game hunter against the backdrop of colonial Africa. With its sweeping vistas and epic romance, Out of Africa captures the beauty and grandeur of the African wilderness, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of love and adventure.

Meryl Streep is simply beautiful in this and I would argue it’s one of her most underrated films. 

15. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Filmed on location in Kenya and Zimbabwe, Out of Africa transports viewers to the breathtaking landscapes of the African continent. Based on the memoir of author Karen Blixen (Meryl Streep), the film chronicles her tumultuous love affair with a charismatic big-game hunter against the backdrop of colonial Africa. With its sweeping vistas and epic romance, Out of Africa captures the beauty and grandeur of the African wilderness, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of love and adventure.

Meryl Streep is simply beautiful in this and I would argue it’s one of her most underrated films. 

16. Lawrence of Arabia

 Set against the sweeping desert landscapes of Jordan and Morocco, Lawrence of Arabia follows the epic journey of T.E. Lawrence during World War I. 

As Lawrence (Peter O’Toole) leads Arab tribes against the Ottoman Empire, he grapples with questions of identity and allegiance amidst the harsh beauty of the desert. The film's breathtaking cinematography and grand scale capture the awe-inspiring majesty of the Middle East, inviting viewers to embark on a cinematic odyssey through history and adventure.

17. Amélie

Set in the charming neighborhoods of Paris, France, Amélie (Audrey Tautou) follows the whimsical adventures of a shy and imaginative young woman who sets out to improve the lives of those around her. Against the backdrop of Montmartre's cobblestone streets and quirky cafes, Amélie discovers the magic of love and connection in the everyday moments of life. The film's enchanting visuals and quirky characters capture the essence of Parisian charm, inspiring viewers to embrace the beauty of small pleasures and spontaneous adventures.

18. A Good Year

Filmed amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France, A Good Year follows a British investment banker (Russel Crowe) who inherits a vineyard and embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the French countryside. As he reconnects with his roots and rediscovers the joys of simple living, he finds love and a new perspective on life. The film's idyllic setting and heartwarming storyline celebrate the beauty of Provence's rolling hills, quaint villages, and world-renowned wines, making it a delightful escape for travelers and romantics alike.

19. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

I doubt anything has inspired more travels to New Zealand than the Lord of the Rings. Filmed against the breathtaking landscapes of this small country, the Lord of the Rings trilogy takes viewers on an epic journey through Middle-earth. 

From the lush forests of the Shire to the snow-capped peaks of the Misty Mountains, the trilogy showcases the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand's diverse landscapes. 

As Frodo (Elijah Wood) and his companions (Viggo Mortensen, Sean Bean, Sir Ian McKellen, and more) embark on a quest to destroy the One Ring, they encounter fantastical creatures and breathtaking vistas that ignite the imagination and stir a sense of adventure in viewers around the world. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or simply appreciate jaw-dropping scenery, the Lord of the Rings trilogy offers a cinematic journey like no other.