The set-jetting trend is largely influenced by popular TV shows like The White Lotus, Emily in Paris, And Just Like That, and films such as The Lord of the Rings and Gladiator 2, which showcase picturesque locations that superfans are eager to experience firsthand. Although expensive, the cost of these trips doesn’t appear to be putting people off as further research shows that searches for holidays in destinations such as Koh Samui have increased by 88% following the premiere of The White Lotus Season 3.
A stay in the Hotel Plaza Athénée in Paris for example, costs £2,384 per night if you want to get the full Emily in Paris experience. Or perhaps a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui which features in the hugely popular series The White Lotus which will set you back £1,715. Of course, being at the hotel is not enough and many travellers will want the full experience with food, drink and other experiences which will increase the overall cost for seven days. This is also before you add the costs for the rest of the trip including flights, transfers, any car hire including car hire excess cover and other travel insurances.
Ernesto Suarez, CEO, Gigasure, says: “Thanks to the popularity of these shows and films, the desire to visit these famed locations is strong. Watching them gives us a desire to visit places and experience them for ourselves – it’s a window into the possibilities, encouraging us to get out there to see the world and experience new things. We know that millennials and Generation Z’ers are keen to invest their money in experiences with 58% revealing they would rather spend their money on a trip than stuff. The financial commitment for these experiences can be substantial and there are many costs to factor in when visiting any of these destinations.”
Ten popular set-jet locations to experience:
The White Lotus - Thailand
Season 3 takes place in Koh Samui Thailand, featuring locations such as the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui which would set you back £1,715 per night and Anantara Bophut which will cost you a slightly more palatable £382 per night. These venues highlight Thailand's rich culture and natural beauty, inspiring plenty of set-jetters to visit.
Emily in Paris: The Parisian dream
Emily in Paris captivates audiences with its depiction of a fantastically stylish and couture Parisian life. The show's emphasis on iconic Paris landmarks, chic cafes, and fashionable streets has inspired many millennials and gen Z fans to visit the city of love, immersing themselves in the show's glamorous portrayal of Parisian culture. For those who want the complete experience, a stay at the Hotel Plaza Athénée, where Emily chaperones actress Brooklyn Clark and attends the Agence Grateau holiday party would cost you £2,384 per night.
And Just Like That: New York city's charm
And Just Like That, the sequel to Sex and the City, has reignited interest in New York City's vibrant locations. Fans are particularly drawn to Carrie Bradshaw's iconic apartment, located at 66 Perry Street in the West Village. While the apartment's exterior was used for filming, the interior was a set. If you want to get a taste of what life is like for Carrie and her friends, a stay at The Plaza in New York City which is heavily featured in the series starts from £880 per night.
Succession: Norwegian Luxury
The series Succession featured the luxurious Juvet Landscape Hotel, where the Roys negotiated with the Swede. Located outside of Valldal on Norway's northwest coast, this unique hotel comprises cabins offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The serenity has enticed fans of the show looking to experience the same tranquillity depicted on screen. One night here starts from £674.
Stranger Things: Lithuanian intrigue
The fourth season of Stranger Things included scenes filmed at Lukiškės Prison in Vilnius, Lithuania. The prison's historic architecture provided an atmospheric backdrop, leaving intrigued fans wanting to explore this unique location. The Grand Hotel Vilnius Curio Collection By Hilton is a highly recommended five-star hotel located within walking distance and a night here starts from £177 (Tripadvisor).
Game of Thrones: Dubrovnik's medieval charm
Dubrovnik, Croatia, served as a primary filming location for King's Landing in Game of Thrones. Since then the city's well-preserved medieval architecture, including sites like Lovrijenac Fort (The Red Keep) and the Pile Gate, have attracted fans eager to walk the same streets as their favourite characters. Big fans of the show can immerse themselves with a Kings Landing Package at the Villa Dubrovnik which also includes a guided Game of Thrones location tour and themed welcome gift for a starting price of £1,000 per night.
Killing Eve: Elegance in Bucharest
Killing Eve filmed key scenes in Bucharest, Romania. Notably, the Romanian Athenaeum's lobby was transformed into a Moscow restaurant for a pivotal scene. The city's diverse architecture and vibrant culture have captured the interest of fans wishing to experience the locales showcased in the series. The Larchwhite Lake Residence on Lake Snagov which features in one of the shows most iconic scenes is available to rent for between £2,700 and £4,025 a week depending on the time of year.
From Scratch: Romance of Florence
From Scratch features the romantic allure of Florence, Italy. Filming took place in various locations within the city's historical centre, including Piazza Santa Croce. The depiction of Florence's rich art, history, and culinary scenes has inspired viewers to embark on their own Italian love affair. The iconic Westin Excelsior Hotel features in the show where a room will set you back around £950.
The Lord of the Rings: New Zealand's landscapes
The Lord of the Rings film trilogy brought New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes to the forefront. The Hobbiton set near Matamata quickly became a significant attraction, attracting over half a million visitors each year. Visitors can tour the set, experiencing the lush pastures and iconic hobbit holes that bring the Shire to life. Hotels close to the attraction can be found for around £200 per night.
Gladiator 2: Malta's history
Gladiator 2 utilised various locations in Malta to recreate ancient Rome. Filming sites included Fort Delimara for the interior tunnels of the Colosseum and Fort Manoel for other significant scenes. Malta's rich history and architecture provided an authentic backdrop for the film's epic narrative. The Phoenicia Malta is one of the most prestigious hotels in the city with a room costing around £200 per night.
Suarez added: "Booking these trips are a big financial commitment with a lot of expense so it’s important that you book travel insurance as soon as you book to cover you for any eventualities. If you find yourself unable to travel and enjoy the trip, you have peace of mind knowing you can claim money back for most of your expenses, depending on the level of cover you have with your policy. It’s also beneficial to have the option to customise a policy to meet our needs and one that enables us to add cover for the more spontaneous activities we might want to do when we get there."