Aloha there in front of the screens, how are ya? Ready again to revel in some soothing and inspiring travel-dreams after our travel movie inspiration post part 1? Well, allrighty then, your wish is my command! Read on for part two of the best ever travel movies 🙂
Vicky Cristina Barcelona – Spain
First things first, this is a Woody Allen movie. But – it´s nothing like Annie Hall or some of his other works. Well, it might have some similarities with his enchanting cinematic creation “Midnight in Paris” in which the glorious Paris of the “années folles” (“crazy years”) the 1920´s, comes alive. Anyways, back to bountiful Barcelona, the location of Allen´s playful tale “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” about, that´s right, Vicky and Christina (played by Scarlett Johansson) in Barcelona.
Theatrical release image, Copyrights by Mediapro and Wildbunch 
Meandering through Barcelona´s charming cityscape 
Exploring Catalonia´s capital – are you coming? 
Relaxing at Parc Guell, one of Barcelona´s major sights, a while ago 
La Pedrera, one of Gaudi´s architectural masterpieces 
Dreamy Park Guell, created by genius Gaudi, at sunset in Barcelona
The protagonists are American girls in their twenties who spend a wild, inspirational, kinda loco (crazy) summer in Catalonia´s capital. This includes but is not limited to plenty of creative endeavors, a dalliance with a somber yet sexy Spanish artist (played by Javier Bardem), AND his eccentric ex-wife (stunning Penelope Cruz), and delightful explorations of the Barcelona-cityscape.
Australia – Antarctica (lol, got ya). Down Under.
Australia – this is the continent of incomparable natural beauty and power, of endless red outback deserts and countless pristine beaches, of a paradisiacal variety of animals, as well as of the world´s oldest Spiritual wisdom tradition. The epic movie bearing the same name does this treasure chest of a continent justice – Baz Luhrmann´s cinematic masterpiece was filmed in the wild and rugged Kimberley- region of Western Australia. It tells the story of a woman (played by divine Nicole Kidman) who travels to Australia to save the cattle ranch she inherited. In the process of doing so, she befriends a local called Drover (Hugh Jackmann hottie-alert) who then helps her accomplish her mission.
Australia by Baz Luhrmann, theatrical release poster. Copyrights by 20th Century Fox/ Bazmark Films Australia. 
One of Australia´s countless roo-inhabitants taking a well-deserved nap 
Western Australian landscape in all its glorious hues of red, brown, and yellow 
Australian Outback adventures
When you think of Australia the movie, think mind-boggling cinematography that captures the passionately intense colors of the Australian landscapes- Think fascinating time-travel to the chaotic times of the Second World War. And think adventure, drama, passion, romance, and epic rivalries. You will also learn more about Indigenous Australians, the world´s oldest living people, and about true resilience that defies all the odds. What´s not to love?
The beach – Thailand
Sawadee khaaa! My trip to Phuket in Southern Thailand is almost a decade ago now, and yet the images of its soul-soothing beaches remain as fresh as when I first set foot on the blessed soil of this gorgeous island jewel.
“The Beach” storyline plays out not far from there – the movie was filmed at Maya bay on Ko Phi Phi. I might write a post on my crazy speedboat-ride-experience from Phuket to Ko Phi Phi in the future, would you be interested to read about it? Let me know in the comments– Kop khun kha – thank you!).
The Beach tells the story of Richard, a young American played by Leonardo di Caprio, who is very keen on his very own treasure hunt. Aka he suddenly finds himself in possession of an odd map that is supposedly gonna lead him to a secret island paradise!
Ko Phi Phi island, where the Beach was filmed in 2000. Image by Juan Luis via Pixabay 
The Beach theatrical release poster. Copyrights by 20th Century Studio.
Richard convinces a French couple to join him in his quest for more happiness and adventure, and so the story of stunning images out of Thailand in the year 2000 begins. “The Beach” lures viewers in thanks to its youthful fervor, beautiful tropical settings, and a deeply felt sense of adventure that oscillates between invigorating and unsettling throughout the movie.
Kon-Tiki – South Pacific
If you are in the mood for the real deal in ADVENTURE movies (in capital letters!!), then look no further than Kon-Tiki. An epic tale inspired by real events, Kon-Tiki tells the story of Norwegian adventurer´s Thor Heyerdahl´s incredible bravery and pioneering spirit. In the 1940s, Heyerdahl (played by Pål Sverre Hagen) suspected that the South Sea islands were originally colonized by South Americans, which contradicted the widely accepted paradigm of the time.
Pacific Ocean impressions, image via Pixabay 
Kon-Tiki Theatrical Release Poster. Copyrights by Nordisk film.
Imagine this: In 1947 Heyerdahl decided to prove his theory, and, accompanied by five brave friends, set sail from Peru. Heyerdahl did this despite his strong fear of water (!!) as well as his inability to swim (!!!)
Can you believe that?! Told ya, ADVENTURE in capital letters!:P The courageous men embarked on a balsa-wooden raft (!!!) which was, you know, pretty basic – the only modern equipment aboard was a radio. Probably because the importance of great music can never be underestimated, right?
The crew, therefore, needed to navigate just like they used to in the very, very olden days – using the stars as well as ocean currents. It took them three incredibly tedious and exciting months at sea before reaching their destination. And boy, were those three months packed to the brim with exciting encounters and moments! But, see and watch for yourself. It´s truly gripping stuff!
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – India
“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” is a charming tale of a bunch of open-minded British retirees who decide to explore new horizons by “outsourcing” their retirement to more affordable and exotic India. The hotel that gives the movie its name looks fabulously enticing on paper. However, when the retirees, played by the creme de la creme of British actors such as Dame Judi Dench and Maggie Smith arrive at their destination in Jaipur, the hotel turns out to be a mere shell of its advertised self. Despite their initial disappointment, the protagonists wholeheartedly embrace their new life adventure and their charming host, played by gorgeous Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire).
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movie 
Snakecharmers doing their thing. Image via Pixabay 
Jaipur impressions,. Image via Pixabay
While exploring their new hood, the protagonists learn lots of valuable lessons about themselves and life – and there might even be a sizzling love story or two on the cards! The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a real feel-good movie that celebrates India´s warmth, soulfulness, and colorfulness, as well as joyously affirms that a brand new promising start is always possible with the right attitude.
Under the Tuscan Sun – Italy
What can a girl do after a draining divorce? As we have already learned from Liz in” Eat, Pray, Love” , the answer is (or can be): The girl can leave town and embark on a travel adventure to the country of Beauty incarnated, Bella Italia! Or in this case, she even starts a whole new life in the homeland of exquisite food, awe-inspiring architecture, and dreamy landscapes.
Theatrical release poster starring a cheeky Diane Lane. Copyrights by Touchstone Pictures. 
Duomo di Firenze/ Florence cathedral 
Florence, Tuscany 
Il cibo divino – Divine food! Once you eat pasta and pizza in Italy, you will never forget its spectacular taste…Promesso/ promised! 
Florence from above 
Italian fountain moments 
Viva L´Italia
The memoir adaptation movie stars Diane Lane as Frances Mayes, who starts her love-affair with Italy via a tour of Tuscany. Enchanted by the sight of an old, run-down house, Frances takes the spur-of-the-moment decision to buy it and make a new life in the Tuscan countryside, where she encounters fascinating people and becomes a major fixer-upper-boss-lady.
Lost in Translation – Japan
Which countries and cultures are on the top of your dream places to explore? In my case, Japan is a culture that I find incredibly intriguing. From its rich and multi-layered culture and wisdom traditions, to its incredibly futuristic seeming big cities or its mouthwatering food – Japan is certainly a location that must expand one´s horizons by leaps and bounds. Or so I was told by Bob Harris. Bob who, you might ask? Bob Harris, who happens to be the protagonist of the iconic movie “Lost in Translation”!
Japanese Kimono street style impressions,. Image via Pixabay 
Japanese night explorations. Image via Pixabay 
Theatrical Release Poster, Copyrights by American Zoetrope
Harris, played in a charmingly disgruntled way by Bill Murray, is an older American film actor who visits Tokyo to star in some commercials. There, he encounters Charlotte (Scarlett Johannson), the young spouse of a visiting photographer. Both are feeling kinda stuck in their current life situations, and so they share some meaningful and culture-shock-informed experiences in the Japanese metropolis. And they might even get too pretty darn close to each other…or are they? You better watch to find out 🙂
Back to you dear reader: Which are ways in which you love to travel while our usual ways of traveling are still restricted? And which are some of your favorite ways to relax, to dream yourself away from everything for a little while? As always, I would love to hear from you:)
Do you need some assistance in order to learn to relax more in these intense times? I am currently creating a relaxation-and-wellbeing-package, based on my 20 years experience studying relaxation methods and Healing Arts. My qualifications include a 270hrs – Yoga-teacher-training, a 200 hours plus Wellness-and-Health-coach training, as well as in-depth studies in further areas such as Qi Gong and Astrology with teachers and healers from around the globe. You can register your interest in this offering here.
Thank you for the fun list of great travel movies Maria. It’s a great list, most of which I’ve seen, but you inspire me to revisit some of them (Australia and Kon-Tiki). I love the idea of travel, but have done very little international travel compared to you and many others I know. I hope I find the courage to make some adventures again. Meanwhile, I continue to love spending time in nature, my number one way to nourish, center, and ground myself. I hope your relaxation and well-being workshops (maybe playshops?) help many others find their path to joy, relaxation, and well-being. Big Hugs!
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Thanks so much Brad, I am stoked to hear that you enjoyed the post and that you feel inspired to (re-) watch some of these inspiring movies! I am sure you will be able to find the courage again, its surely there and just needs to be reactivated 🙂 Thank you for sharing your favorite way to relax and nourish yourself with us! I agree with you, nature is an amazing wellspring of soothing and invigorating energy. I LOVE the idea of playshops! At this stage, the relax package will consist of an e-book, a guided meditation, a Yoga and movement-video and a surprise bonus…. but you just really inspired me to think about this “playshop” idea! Thanks so much Brad:) Have a wonderful day, big hugs back to ya!
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You’re most welcome Maria. Your package sounds wonderful. I hope you help many people. Hugs….
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Thank you so much Brad, that is very kind of you!!:) Hugs and write soon 🙂
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What a fun post! Thanks for including my favorite, Under the Tuscan Sun. I had no idea (or maybe I forgot) that Heyerdahl had a strong fear of water and couldn’t swim!!! I can’t imagine. I want to see this movie, now.
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Thanks dear! My pleasure to include your favorite – thank you for your lovely suggestion on my last travel movie post:) Yes, isn´t it astonishing to think that such a brave adventurer as Heyerdahl was scared of water? It comes to show how much is possible once one is determined and acts on facing one’s fears! So encouraging:) Enjoy the movie!
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Most beautiful post,yaar!! I will see all movies as you described.most enthusiastic and inspirational post.all photos are most beautiful but at south pacific’s photo is heart attracting.you know John Hugman and Leonardo d’ Capri are my favourite heroes .you are so much lucky to have so much beautiful memories of your all trips.Mary Gold’s movie is most lovely to me.so much thanks to share your travel’s memories which have made my mind as fresh and feel-i have reached there.a lot(bahut sara) of love(pyaar),meri jaan.Big hugs and Muchas love,Querida amiga.nobody can never forget you if he/she read and meet to you.sending love💕💕💕💕💝💕💕💕💕💝💖xoxoxo
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Mere dost, bahut bahut dhanywaad, thanks so much for your super kind and enthusiastic comment dear:) Thanks also for sharing your favorite actors with us – I agree, Leonardo Di Caprio is an outstanding actor! I am so happy to hear you enjoyed this my friend, it makes my day:) You are so sweet dear! Pure hearted 🙂 So much love, big hugs, and a beautiful start to your week in gorgeous Rajasthan 💕💕💕💕💝💕
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A great list which was thoroughly enjoyable. Nowadays with the lockdown, I go for a walk with my family in the night. Can’t really think of travelling though I have a list that I desperately want to explore.
Anyways, thanks and much appreciated for sharing
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Hello BillboardVagabond, thank you so much for taking the time to read and leave such a lovely comment,! I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the read:) I feel you on the restrictions – night walks have been a daily thing for me too… Fingers crossed for further travel opportunities for you asap!:) Thanks again for visiting and traveling with!
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Aloha Maria. Oh, I do love escaping with you! What a wonderful joyful post and such a fabulous list of movies, most of which I think I’ve seen. Amongst my favourites would have to be the epic Australia (of course!) and Kon Tiki, though Under the Tuscan Sun is up there too, partly because of my ancestry and how much I love the Italian culture. Thank you for transporting me once again cara. Love your photos, your writing and your pure class. You simply ooze positivity and radiance which is exactly what we need today my friend.
Oh, and by the way, I want to know more about your crazy speed boat ride. Sounds right up my alley!!! Big hugs, tanti baci and much love always. xxxxx 💐💕🥰
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Aloha cara Miriam, oh and I absolutely adore having you along with me every single time!! Thank you for your beautiful words of light and kindness here, you are such a treasure chest of care and magic:) Ah yes, the Italian culture is something else my friend!! I am so grateful for our amicizia. Looking forward to reading more about your latest camping trip soon!! Speed boat ride WAS crazy btw – you would have loved it!! Wild, a tad dangerous, and very fun 🙂 Tanti baci and mucho amor across land masses and oceans to you xoxo💖💖
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Gypsy!
Of course you are still travelling, in any way you can.
I love it. Thanks for the fun post!
xoxoxoxo
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Amiga artista, sure am 🙂 Thanks for your visit lovely! Always so awesome to have you here. xoxoxoxo
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xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
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Wow amazing and awesome presentation of such a beautiful and lovely place. Thank you for the virtual tour.
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Thank you for your sweet words and visit, Kamal! Much appreciated, glad you enjoyed 🙂
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Yes lovely post. You are welcome dear.
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What an amazing and thrilling post, Maria. Thanks for always taking us on a panoramic travel and I have seen many of the movies. They are all so beautiful. Would love travelling with you lovely friend. Stay safe. Thanks for your valuable post
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Thanks so much, dear Kamal, for your beautiful and heartfelt words! So happy you enjoyed this, and how lovely that you have seen most of these movies already! They are really fun:) You ARE traveling with me, virtually:) 💖💖💖 Thank you for your wonderful kindness!! 🙂 Means so much! Stay well 🙂 Blessings
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You are always welcome dear Maria and your post was fantastic, enjoyed thoroughly. Blessings to you too dear 🙏🙏🙏🙏
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I loved hearing the little boy sing in the movie “Australia.” Thanks for sharing this list.
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Hello Frugal Fish, thank you for your lovely comment, happy to hear you enjoyed this. Thanks for reminding us of that magnificent song – it´s truly magical, isn´t it? I sure loved it, just like yourself. Enjoy your day:)
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