Grab your coziest blanket, a bowl of popcorn (caramel is our favorite), and press play. Holiday movies have a way of transporting us, and winter is the perfect time to let that spark something bigger. What if those feel-good films inspired your next great escape?
12% of Millennial and Gen Z travelers admitted that they enjoy traveling to destinations shown in their favorite TV shows and movies. So, it’s time to let the big screen take the lead. We paired iconic holiday films with destinations that match their spirit to help you discover your perfect winter getaway.
Movie: The Holiday
The plot: Two women swap homes across the world to escape heartbreak. Along the way, they discover new connections and new beginnings.
Who you are: The romantic
Your escape: Treat yourself to some TLC
Where to go: Surrey, England, or Kyoto, Japan
In The Holiday, Amanda’s cozy cottage in Surrey captures the charm of England’s rolling hills and quaint villages. Spend your days exploring ivy-clad walls, historic pubs, and peaceful countryside walks.
Kyoto offers zen-like serenity with its tranquil gardens and awe-inspiring temples. Stroll through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or soak your worries away in one of Kyoto’s natural hot springs.
Movie: Elf
The plot: Buddy the Elf leaves the North Pole for New York City to reconnect with his long-lost father and share his contagious holiday cheer.
Who you are: The kid at heart
Your escape: Let loose at a theme park
Where to go: Legoland, Denmark, or Efteling, Netherlands
The original Legoland in Billund, Denmark, is a must-visit for Lego fans of all ages. With 11 themed areas, thrilling rides, and Lego-building workshops, it’s the ultimate playground for imagination. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to secure a tour at their factory next door–but hurry, registration is limited.
Efteling in the Netherlands turns winter into a fairytale with twinkling lights, ice skating, and roller coasters. Sip hot chocolate by the bonfire or explore its enchanting attractions until February 2.
Movie: Home Alone
The plot: Mischievous 8-year-old Kevin gets left behind while his family vacations in Europe, and he’s forced to defend his home from burglars.
Who you are: The thrill seeker
Your escape: Hit the mountains
Where: Banff, Canada, or the Dolomite Mountains, Italy
In Banff, adrenaline meets jaw-dropping views. Explore the Canadian Rockies by snowmobile and take in the alpine beauty of Banff National Park’s pristine snowy landscapes.
For something even more striking, the Dolomites offer rugged peaks, dramatic limestone formations, and icy climbs that challenge and reward. Whether you try ice climbing or simply soak in the views, this is winter on a whole new level.
Movie: Secret Life of Walter Mitty
The plot: Walter brings his action-packed daydreams to life when he embarks on a whirlwind journey to recover a lost photo.
Who you are: The trekker
Your escape: Go off the grid
Where: Mount Everest, Nepal, or Nuuk, Greenland
Walter’s ascent to Everest Base Camp is a pivotal moment in Secret Life of Walter Mitty and a bucket-list trek for a reason. This challenging journey rewards you with sweeping Himalayan views and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to match. It’s the kind of adventure that’s as transformative as it is scenic. For peace of mind, consider Faye’s adventure & extreme sports protection add-on, which offers up to $250k to cover injuries and unexpected events while exploring. *Coverage varies by plan, location, and policy terms.
Nuuk, Greenland, also plays a starring role in Walter’s travels and offers a remote, Arctic experience with mesmerizing landscapes. From whale watching and chasing the Northern Lights to exploring its colorful art scene, Nuuk is a hidden gem that invites you to step off the beaten path.
Movie: March of the Penguins
The plot: This heartwarming documentary follows penguins through their migration in the stunning icy scenery of Antarctica.
Who you are: The nature lover
Your escape: Embrace the wild
Where: Punta Arenas, Chile, or Brisbane, Australia
Start your adventure in the port city of Punta Arenas, gateway to Antarctica. Glide past snowcapped fjords and witness penguin colonies in their natural habitat. It’s a family-friendly adventure that delivers wonder at every turn.
If koalas and kangaroos are more your vibe, Brisbane’s Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit. The world’s oldest and largest sanctuary lets you hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and support conservation efforts, all while soaking up Australia’s sunny warmth.
So, which movie speaks to your wanderlust?
Holiday movies are filled with magic, hope, and adventure, which makes them the perfect inspiration for your next trip. Whether you want a romantic escape, a challenge that pushes your limits, or a getaway that brings the whole crew together, your favorite film might be the sign you’ve been waiting for.
Wherever you go, bring Faye travel protection along. With customizable coverage, you can explore the world worry-free, because every great escape deserves peace of mind.
*Losses due to, arising or resulting from Adventure or Extreme Activities are normally excluded from coverage. However, for an additional cost, you can purchase a plan that does not contain this exclusion, so that such losses due to, arising or resulting from Adventure or Extreme Activities are covered on the same basis as losses due to, arising or resulting from all other injuries. Coverage varies by plan, location, and policy terms.
The activities are suggestions, and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on where to travel for your winter escape.
