Film tourism is a relatively new concept that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It refers to the phenomenon of people traveling to locations that have been used in films or TV shows. This can be for a variety of reasons, including visiting places that they have seen on screen, experiencing the culture and lifestyle of the area depicted in the film, or simply because they are fans of the movie or TV show.
Examples of Film Tourism
There are many examples of film tourism around the world, some more famous than others. Here are just a few:
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy – New Zealand
One of the most famous examples of film tourism is The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, which was filmed in New Zealand. Fans from all over the world travel to New Zealand to visit locations such as Hobbiton and Mount Doom. In fact, New Zealand has capitalized on this trend by creating guided tours and experiences based around The Lord of the Rings.
Harry Potter – United Kingdom
The Harry Potter franchise has also sparked a huge amount of film tourism, particularly in the United Kingdom where much of it was filmed. Fans flock to locations such as King’s Cross Station (where they can take pictures at Platform 9 ¾), Edinburgh (which inspired much of J.K. Rowling’s writing), and Oxford (where several scenes were filmed).
Game of Thrones – Croatia
Game of Thrones is another example where fans travel to see filming locations. Croatia has become particularly popular among fans due to its use as a filming location for several parts of Westeros in seasons 2-5.
Why Film Tourism Is Important
Film tourism can be incredibly beneficial for both tourists and destinations alike. For tourists, it provides an opportunity to see places that they may not have considered otherwise, and provides a unique and exciting experience. For destinations, it can provide a significant boost to the local economy by increasing tourism and generating revenue.
Challenges of Film Tourism
While film tourism can be beneficial, it also comes with its own set of challenges. One issue is the potential for overcrowding – when too many tourists visit a location, it can lead to damage or destruction of the natural or cultural environment. Another challenge is that not all locations are equipped to handle large numbers of tourists, which can lead to strain on local resources and infrastructure.
Conclusion
Film tourism is a growing trend that shows no signs of slowing down. While there are challenges associated with it, there are also many benefits for both tourists and destinations alike. So whether you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones, or just looking for a unique travel experience, film tourism is definitely worth considering!