Hottest Set Jetting Destinations You Need to Visit!
What in the world is Set Jetting? I know… I asked the same question myself. Oh, and try saying it 3 times fast! I’ve put together a list of some of the best spots to save for your next getaway or a dream vacation!
Travelers are increasingly inspired by film and television locations, a vacation trend known as “set-jetting.” Have you seen The White Lotus, the HBO series that blends dark comedy, satire, and drama, set against the backdrop of luxury resorts in exotic locations? This critically acclaimed show has boosted tourism in Hawaii and Sicily from their first 2 series. With its third season set in Koh Samui, Thailand, it is anticipating a surge in visitors seeking to experience the show’s locales. Seriously, Thailand was already on my list!
Koh Samui, Thailand
The 3rd season of The White Lotus (just released) was filmed in multiple locations across Thailand, primarily at the stunning luxury Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. In addition, key locations included the Anantara Mai Khao Villas in Phuket, the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, and the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. A few scenes were also shot in the busy city of Bangkok.
Here are a few highlights of Koh Samui for your visit- both popular and hidden gems.
Chaweng Beach – the island’s most famous beach, is known for its white sand, clear waters, and lively nightlife.
Silver Beach – A small, less crowded paradise with powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, located between Chaweng and Lamai.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)– the 39-foot golden Buddha statue on a small island, offering stunning views and a cultural experience, or visit the Laem Sor Pagoda – A stunning golden pagoda off the beaten path trail, offering serene vibes and ocean views.
Fisherman’s Village, Bophut – A charming area with boutique shops, beachfront dining, and the famous Friday Night Walking Street Market. A traditional fishing village where you can enjoy fresh, authentic Thai seafood without the tourists is Hua Thanon.
Secret Buddha Garden – A hidden, mystical garden tucked away in the mountains, filled with ancient stone statues and surrounded by lush jungle.
Na Muang Waterfalls – Two beautiful waterfalls set in lush jungle surroundings, perfect for a refreshing dip. Ang Thong National Marine Park – A breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands, ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring hidden lagoons.
🎬 Show Spotlights – The monkey footage from The White Lotus Season 3 was filmed at a nature preserve in Phuket, while the elegant dinner scenes took place at the Rosewood Hotel Phuket and the reception area scenes were filmed at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui for a more cinematic setting.
In The White Lotus Season 1, the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, located on the stunning shores of Wailea Beach, served as the backdrop for all the drama, satire, and mystery that unfolded throughout the season. The real-life Four Seasons Maui is known for its pristine oceanfront overlooking the Pacific with breathtaking sunset views. The quietest times to visit Hawaii are mid-April to early June and then September to mid-December.
🎬 Show Spotlight – Iconic locations from the show include the Four Seasons resort’s grand lobby, infinity pool, and the private Plumeria Garden Suite.
Season 2 of The White Lotus transported viewers to the stunning landscapes of Sicily, Italy, with its main setting at the historic San Domenico Palace, a luxurious Four Seasons property in Taormina. . This stunning clifftop resort provided the perfect backdrop for the season’s themes of wealth, desire, and betrayal. Some of the scenes were shot in the bustling streets of Palermo, Sicily, Italy. The gorgeous beach scenes were filmed in Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town known for its medieval streets and golden-sand beaches. Noto is a picturesque Baroque town where Harper & Daphne (Aubrey Plaza & Meghann Fahy) take a girls’ trip, featuring grand palazzos and stunning cathedrals. The luxury retreat was located at the stunning countryside estate, Villa Elena and the Teatro Antico di Taormina is the ancient Greek theater, with views of Mount Etna and the sea appearing in several of the scenes throughout Season 2.
Interested in exploring? Check out this fantastic tour of Sicily!
🎬 Show Spotlight – Castello degli Schiavi (Fiumefreddo di Sicilia) is a historic villa featured in The Godfather, adding an extra layer of cinematic nostalgia to the season.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland has become a prime destination for set-jetting, with its breathtaking landscapes and historic sites serving as the backdrop for numerous iconic films and TV series. Edinburgh, with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, has been featured in productions like Avengers: Infinity War and Outlaw King, offering visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. The Scottish Highlands provide the dramatic scenery for the very popular show Outlander, with key filming locations including Doune Castle and the stunning Isle of Skye. A few spots located in the Edinburgh area are the Roslin Glen Country Park, the setting for scenes featuring Jamie and Claire on the run in the lush woodlands. A visit to Culross, Fife, the well-preserved 17th-century village doubled as the fictional Cranesmuir in Outlander. Visitors can stroll through its charming streets and visit Culross Palace, which appeared in multiple episodes of the series.
Meanwhile, the hit reality show The Traitors showcases the grandeur of Ardross Castle, adding to Scotland’s appeal as a cinematic travel destination. Of course, we cannot forget Harry Potter highlights the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously featured as the route of the Hogwarts Express.
🎬 Show Spotlight – Aberdour Castle was the historic site for the Benedictine monastery where Jamie Fraser was nursed back to health in season one. It’s the oldest standing stone castle in Scotland, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s medieval past.
England
England has long been a favorite destination for set-jetting, with its historic landmarks, picturesque countryside, and vibrant cities serving as the backdrop for countless films and television series. London is a cinematic hotspot, featuring prominently in productions like Harry Potter, Sherlock, and Bridgerton, where iconic locations such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the grand Georgian squares of Bath bring stories to life. The countryside offers equally stunning settings, with Highclere Castle standing in as Downton Abbey and Alnwick Castle doubling as Hogwarts in the early Harry Potter films. Fans of Peaky Blinders can explore the gritty industrial landscapes of Birmingham, while lovers of The Crown can visit stately homes like Wilton House and Lancaster House, which replicate Buckingham Palace on screen. Another series, House of the Dragon showcased the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, and in particular St. Michael’s Mount that embodies the dramatic, medieval style of the series. If you are interested in exploring England, let’s plan your dream trip. London has some great luxury properties that I’m happy to share with you!
🎬 Show Spotlight– One hidden gem for set-jetting in England is Castle Howard, a breathtaking estate in North Yorkshire that served as the iconic backdrop for multiple TV series, most notably Bridgerton and Brideshead Revisited. One can explore the grand halls, sip afternoon tea in the café, and wander through the vast grounds that have set the scene for many romantic and dramatic moments on screen.
Paris, France
Take a guess on what show is filmed in Paris? Of course, Emily in Paris is the ultimate set-jetting experience! Many of the show’s most dazzling moments take place at real-life locations across Paris, from the charming Place de l’Estrapade, where Emily’s apartment and Gabriel’s restaurant are located, to the iconic Pont Alexandre III, where high-fashion drama unfolds. Stroll through the picturesque Palais Royal Gardens, where Emily often meets Mindy, or sip coffee at Café de Flore, one of the city’s most famous literary cafés and a frequent filming spot.
🎬 Show Spotlight– For a hidden gem, venture to Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre. This fairytale-like street, often called the “prettiest street in Paris,” is where Emily takes in the magic of the city away from the usual tourist crowds. With its cobblestone charm, ivy-covered buildings, and the iconic pink façade of La Maison Rose café, it’s the perfect spot to soak in a little Emily in Paris magic!
Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum, Jordan, famously served as the stunning desert backdrop for Dune, transforming into the vast and otherworldly landscapes of Arrakis. Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum’s towering sandstone cliffs, sweeping dunes, and dramatic rock formations provided the perfect setting for the sci-fi epic. Stay overnight to take in the breathtaking views of Burrah Canyon, where several desert trek scenes were shot, and the towering Jebel Umm Fruth rock arch, a striking natural wonder seen in the film. Visitors can also venture to the Khazali Canyon, with its ancient petroglyphs, and take a 4×4 tour across the endless golden sands to experience the same awe-inspiring scenery that brought Dune to life. With its surreal beauty, Wadi Rum is a must-visit destination for film buffs and adventure
🎬 Show Spotlights – Jebel Khazali is a narrow canyon, tucked away in the desert that features stunning rock formations and ancient petroglyphs etched into its walls, some dating back thousands of years. Though not as widely recognized as other filming spots, its unique, otherworldly atmosphere makes it a perfect match for the alien landscapes depicted in the film.
If traveling outside of the United States is not in the cards for a set jetting getaway, then here are a few USA destinations and fairly easy to get, too!
Covington, Georgia
The Netflix series Sweet Magnolias is set in the fictional town of Serenity, South Carolina, but is primarily filmed in Covington, Georgia. Fair warning—this show is irresistibly charming, especially for the gals, with all the heartwarming small-town vibes you could ask for! With over 250 productions filmed in this charming Georgia town, often dubbed the “Hollywood of the South,” the key locations include the picturesque downtown area, where visitors can wander past the iconic Newton County Courthouse, a landmark seen in numerous films and TV shows. The Corner Spa, where Maddie, Helen, and Dana Sue gather for heart-to-heart conversations, is portrayed by a real building in Covington, adding to the town’s authenticity. Other notable spots include Sullivan’s Restaurant, which is filmed at Mystic Grill, a popular eatery that also gained fame from The Vampire Diaries. Fans can also explore Serenity’s church, filmed at the historic Oakhurst Presbyterian Church, and various scenic neighborhoods that bring the show’s small-town charm to life.
🎬 Show Spotlights – A hidden gem in Covington for Sweet Magnolias fans is Lee-Porter Mansion, a stunning historic home that serves as the exterior of Dana Sue’s house in the series.
Bitterroot Valley, Montana
The Dutton family’s ranch in Yellowstone is set in the breathtaking Bitterroot Valley of Montana, with the Chief Joseph Ranch in Darby serving as the iconic Yellowstone Ranch. Fans can book a stay in the ranch’s cabins, immersing themselves in the stunning landscapes seen throughout the series. While much of the show is filmed in Montana, additional hidden gems can be found across the state. The historic Missoula County Courthouse in Missoula, Montana, has been featured in several episodes, providing a backdrop for various legal proceedings in the show. Visitors can appreciate its architectural significance and explore the surrounding downtown area, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, the Missoula Farmers Market, and other local establishments that have appeared in the series.
Razor Creek Ranch near Darby serves as another key filming location. For those seeking even more scenic backdrops, Montana’s Paradise Valley, located between Livingston and Yellowstone National Park, offers breathtaking views of the rugged peaks and vast open plains often featured in the show. These locations highlight the untamed beauty of Montana, bringing the world of Yellowstone to life for visitors and fans alike.
🎬 Show Spotlight – Beyond the ranch, explore Lake Como, a breathtaking alpine lake featured in the show, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and soaking in Montana’s rugged beauty. For a true Wild West experience, stop by Rogers’ Meat Market, a local spot where the cast and crew have been known to grab a bite.
San Antonio, Texas
The Yellowstone prequel series 1923, filmed scenes in various locations across Texas, including my home airport city, San Antonio. The downtown area was transformed to depict 1920s New York City. East Pecan, East Houston, East Travis, Peacock Alley, Jefferson, and North Alamo streets were utilized, with period-appropriate clothing and vehicles enhancing the historical ambiance. The production was also filmed in Galveston, utilizing historic locations like the Grand Galvez Hotel, Ashton Villa, Galveston Railroad Museum, Scottish Rite Temple, and Depot on Market Street. An interesting point on filming in Texas, the cast faced challenges during filming, due to the extreme Texas heat. Take this as a suggestion: the Texas summers are brutal! If you need to plan your trip to SA, I’m here to help.
🎬 Show Spotlight – a hidden gem worth visiting is the Menger Hotel, one of the city’s most historic landmarks that opened in 1859 and was transformed to fit the 1920s aesthetic for the show. Known for its grand Victorian architecture and storied past, the Menger has hosted historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt and was a gathering place for cattle barons and railroad tycoons which fit perfectly with the 1923 era.
Fort Worth, Texas
Taylor Sheridan’s newest show Landman is set in the oil-rich landscapes of Midland-Odessa, Texas, however the series was primarily filmed in Fort Worth and surrounding areas. Fort Worth was chosen for its rich history in the Texas oil boom and its versatile urban backdrop, which effectively stands in for West Texas locales. Key filming sites include Texas Christian University, the American Association of Professional Landmen Headquarters, and the Fort Worth Petroleum Club. Although the show wasn’t filmed in Midland, the city offers visitors a deep dive into the real-world settings that inspired the series. Explore the early life of the 43rd U.S. President in this restored George W. Bush Childhood Home in Midland, Texas. Delve into the history of the oil industry and its profound impact on the region at the
Permian Basin Petroleum Museum.
🎬 Show Spotlight – Notably, the Fort Worth Petroleum Club, located at 777 Main Street in Fort Worth, was the primary filming location for the show’s country club scenes. This private club, established in 1953, a hub for professionals in the oil and gas sector, made it an ideal setting to depict the series’ elite gatherings.
The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks has captivated audiences with its thrilling treasure hunts and stunning coastal scenery. While the show is set in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, most of the filming actually takes place in and around Charleston, South Carolina. Iconic locations include Shem Creek, which doubles as the Kildare Island waterfront, and the historic Lowndes Grove Estate, used as one of the family homes. Fans can explore other recognizable spots like the Morris Island Lighthouse and Hunting Island State Park, which provide the show’s dramatic coastal backdrops. Washout Beach on Folly Island, a lesser-known surf spot, provides the perfect Outer Banks vibe and has been used for beach scenes in the show. The Old Village District in Mount Pleasant is a picturesque, quiet area with historic homes and oak-lined streets, capturing the Southern charm often seen in Kildare Island. For a more adventurous experience, visit Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, a secluded coastal paradise with driftwood-strewn beaches that resemble the untouched landscapes in the Outer Banks.
🎬 Show Spotlight – If you stop in Charleston, you can book the Outer Banks Film tour to see and hear all the stories about the cast and crew of Outer Banks. Learn about the history, culture, and architecture of Charleston during the tour as well.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania + Dallas Texas
Netflix is set to launch “Netflix House,” an immersive fan experience, at the King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania in 2025. This 100,000-square-foot venue will offer interactive attractions based on popular Netflix series, including themed dining, retail shops, and immersive experiences tied to shows like Stranger Things and Bridgerton. Visitors can engage with show-inspired food and drinks, purchase exclusive merchandise, and enjoy dynamic spaces reflecting their favorite series. The King of Prussia location is expected to open in 2025, with another venue planned for Galleria Mall in Dallas. Additionally, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, plans to introduce her American Riviera Orchard line of food and home goods at these pop-up shops, offering products ranging from jams to body lotions and wallpaper. These developments aim to provide fans with a unique, immersive experience, blending entertainment, shopping, and dining in a single location.
Set jetting allows fans to step beyond the screen and into the worlds of their favorite shows, bringing iconic locations to life in a way no studio set ever could. Whether it’s tracing the footsteps of the Dutton family in Montana, wandering the transformed streets of 1923’s San Antonio, soaking in the coastal charm of Outer Banks, or escaping to the luxurious shores of Thailand, where The White Lotus Season 3 unfolds, these destinations offer immersive experiences that blend storytelling with real-world adventure. Fans can also step back in time at grand English estates like Castle Howard, featured in Bridgerton and Brideshead Revisited, where history and drama collide. With so many series capturing the essence of their settings, every journey becomes a chance to relive the drama, romance, and action firsthand, one filming location at a time. Contact me, and let’s get started!