Our Favorite Travel Films
Staff Picks: Our Favorite Travel Films
Most of our world travelers have films that have inspired them, either to visit a destination or just to set out on an adventure. Movies can spark our imaginations and transport us to faraway places like nothing else can. So we asked our staff to tell us some of their favorite films, here is our list. What are some of yours?
Out of Africa (1985)
The true story of Karen Blixen (Meryl Streep) who in 1913 moved to Kenya to start a cattle ranch, this film has planted the seed of Safari in many hearts.
“Micato Safaris sent me this movie before my first safari, and I fell in love with it and with Africa too!” ~ Karen Barton
Eat, Pray Love (2010)
A Biographical Drama starring Julia Roberts as Elizabeth Gilbert as she sets off on a year long quest of self-discovery. On this journey she learns to eat in Italy, to pray in India, and finally to love in Indonesia
“There’s nothing quite like embracing new cultures. Be open to growing through new experiences, it will change you forever.” ~ Mary Anne Lucas
Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987
From the great John Hughes it’s the classic odd couple buddy road trip movie that spawned countless copies. Steve Martin & John Candy are in rare form as stranded travelers trying to get home for Thanksgiving despite endless mishaps & adventures. It would have received a PG13 rating were it not for Steve Martin’s hilarious (and allegedly ad-libbed) scene where he uses the “F-word” a record 18 times in a row.
“An hilarious adventure of two men trying to get home for Thanksgiving while dealing with rerouted flights, snow storms & other calamities.” ~ Teresa Wilds
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Walter, played by Ben Stiller, lives a boring life daydreaming of great adventures, until an unexpected event sets him off around the world on an adventure beyond his wildest dreams.
“If there was ever a movie to inspire you to travel, this is it! Live life with no regrets!” ~ Mary Anne Lucas
Catch Me if You Can (2002)
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio & Tom Hanks, it’s the true-life tale of Frank Abagnale Jr., an extraordinary con man who managed to impersonate a Pa Am Pilot, a doctor and a prosecutor among other things.
“Leonardo DiCaprio as a teenage con artist who manages to avoid the feds while pulling off elaborate schemes. Impersonating a Pan Am Pilot, the movie plays this up with plenty of vintage air travel eye candy.” ~ Kristy Copeland
Forrest Gump (1994)
Tom Hanks stars in perhaps his best known role as the lovable and courageous, if a bit slow, Forrest Gump, who stumbles his way into prominent historical moments around the world
Sideways (2004)
An hilarious comedy that follows the misadventures of a down on his luck wine snob, and his wreckless buddy on a bachelor party weekend romp through the Napa Valley Wine Country. Starring Paul Giamati & Thomas Hayden Church
“Wine, Napa, marriage. Aside from telling a great story with greta characters, the movie showcases some of the most beautiful vineyards & tasting rooms in Santa Barbara. Have a glass while you watch, just not *bleeping* merlot!” ~ Kristy Copeland
European Vacation (1985)
An instant classic in the National Lampoons catalogue, this one finds the Griswalds off on another catastrophe-prone attempt at a family vacation. Chevy Chase has never been funnier
“This is a favorite travel comedy that for me, epitomizes a parent’s passion for showing their kids the world, and all the unexpected adventures that go along with that.” ~ Mary Anne Lucas
AIRPLANE! (1980)
Another classic slapstick comedy featuring Leslie Nielson in rare form, that takes shots at the slew of disaster movies.
“After the passengers and crew of a flight are incapacitated due to food poisoning, a rogue pilot with a drinking problem must cooperate with his ex-girlfriend turned stewardess to bring the plane in for a safe landing.” ~ Kristy Copeland
The Holiday (2006)
A romantic comedy starring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law & Jack Black. Two women with guy troubles swap homes in their countries, meet a local guy & fall in love.
“I love this movie!” ~ Robert Scoles