Cover ‘A Tourist’s Guide to Love’ is a romantic comedy that features the streets and countryside of Vietnam. (Photo: Sasidis Sasisakulporn/Netflix)
‘A Tourist’s Guide to Love’ is a romantic comedy that features the streets and countryside of Vietnam. (Photo: Sasidis Sasisakulporn/Netflix)
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Destination romantic films do more than provide a sense of place—they ignite a sense of wanderlust in the viewer
In destination romantic movies, “place” often serves as the mysterious yet crucial third character. It has the power to either make or break a relationship, intensifying the plot or adding a moment of pause, all while offering audiences a visually captivating escape. In these seven films, the setting is far more than just a backdrop—it plays an essential role in shaping the story, making it as unforgettable as the characters themselves. These stunning locations might even inspire you to add them to your travel list.
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1. ‘A Tourist's Guide to Love’ – Vietnam
A Tourist’s Guide to Love is not just the ultimate throwback film for millennials (it stars Rachel Leigh Cook), it’s also a beautiful cinematic tribute to Vietnam. In the movie, Amanda, a travel executive, embarks on a transformative journey through the country after a breakup. The film showcases the country’s most romantic spots, with the markets of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Hoi An and Halong Bay providing a picturesque backdrop for Amanda’s self-discovery and blossoming romance.
2. ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants’ – Santorini, Greece
In The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Santorini’s landscape becomes a catalyst for personal growth. While the four friends—Carmen, Bridget, Tibby and Lena—are separated for the summer, it’s in Santorini that Tibby and Lena experience moments of romance and self-discovery amidst the island’s whitewashed villages, turquoise waters and blue-domed churches. The landscape perfectly complements the film’s themes of friendship, loss and finding oneself, which are shared by all four girls.
3. ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ – Cortona, Tuscany
In Under the Tuscan Sun, Frances (Diane Lane) finds herself in the charming town of Cortona, Tuscany after a painful divorce. She, against her better judgment, buys a run-down villa that becomes witness to her healing and transformation. In rustic Cortona, with its rolling hills, vineyards and enduring architecture, she not only finds herself but also forms unexpected bonds with locals who become her family away from what she once called home.
4. ‘Leap Year’ – Ireland
Amy Adams portrays Anna, a woman determined to propose to her boyfriend in Dublin on Leap Day. Her journey, which takes her across Ireland, is set against the backdrop of the country’s stunning scenery—rolling hills, ancient castles and dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, she encounters Declan (Matthew Goode), and the lush landscapes and quaint villages become the perfect setting for their unexpected connection. From the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher to the charming Irish countryside, Ireland provides an enchanting setting for both self-discovery and the blossoming of love.
5. ‘Aloha’ – Hawaii
In Aloha, Bradley Cooper portrays Brian Gilcrest, a defence contractor who returns to Hawaii after a long absence. The film explores themes of love, loss and redemption as Brian navigates complex relationships with old flames, including his ex-wife, Tracy (played by Rachel McAdams), and develops a connection with Captain Allison Ng (played by Emma Stone), an Air Force pilot assigned to be his liaison. The lush Hawaiian landscape serves as more than just a backdrop. It reflects the film’s themes of connection to the land, cultural identity and the search for meaning. The film also incorporates elements of Hawaiian mythology and spirituality, adding another layer to the narrative.
6. ‘Notting Hill’ – London, England
The charming streets of Notting Hill provide the perfect backdrop for the romance between a famous actress and a humble bookstore owner. Julia Roberts stars as Anna Scott, a world-famous American actress, whose chance encounter with William Thacker (Hugh Grant), the unassuming owner of a travel bookstore, blossoms into an unlikely romance. The film unfolds amidst a neighbourhood known for its colourful houses, bustling Portobello Road Market, independent bookstores, like William’s own, and cosy cafes.
7. ‘Serendipity’ – New York City, USA
Fate intervenes when Jonathan Trager (John Cusack) and Sara Thomas (Kate Beckinsale) meet while Christmas shopping at Bloomingdale’s in New York City. Despite being with other people, they feel an undeniable connection—making it a problematic love story set in a dreamy winter wonderland. New York City’s magic, particularly during the holiday season, plays a central role, with iconic locations like Central Park, Bloomingdale’s and the Wollman Rink in Central Park becoming part of their shared history. If you could look past Jonathan’s, frankly, inexcusable behaviour, this would be a solid rom-com. Otherwise, just watch it for the NYC beauty shots.
Whether it’s the sun-drenched views of Santorini or Ireland’s rolling hills, these films inspire wanderlust and are perfect additions to any travel bucket list.
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