As you know by now, we LOVE travelling the world, but obviously we can’t always be jet setting. When we’re not jumping on a plane, we love travelling vicariously through people in films and on television. Films have also inspired us so many times to visit a certain country or location, so we thought we’d give you our favourite films that have inspired us! If you’re heading off on your next Gals Who Travel adventure or you are looking for some inspiration, here are five perfect watches to get you in the mood!

 

 

 

1. The White Lotus (Series 3)

 

This sharp, satirical series is always set in gorgeous resorts around the world. Season 3 takes place in Thailand (Koh Samui), and it really shows off Thailand’s stunning beaches, rich local culture, delicious food and laid-back vibes. If you haven’t watched The White Lotus, you are missing out - it’s a must-watch! It’s a feast for the eyes, and it has so many familiar faces in it, too. You’ll be desperate to book a trip to Thailand after seeing it in all its glory on this incredible TV show!

 

Thailand Paradise (9 Days)

 

Where to watch in the UK:
In the UK The White Lotus (including S3) is available on Sky Atlantic and NOW.

 

2. Outer Banks (Series 4)


Season 4 of Outer Banks takes the ‘Pogues’ on a thrilling treasure hunt to the fictional region of Agapenta. In reality, these scenes were filmed in Ouarzazate, known as the “door of the desert” near the Sahara. Although the show is fictional, the deserts, old villages, and medinas are distinctly Moroccan! If you have ever wanted to visit Morocco, this show will convince you to finally book the trip! If you do book, add Outer Banks to your must-watch list for sure. On the Gals Who Morocco tour, we’ll visit Ait Ben Haddou, which is where lots of the show was filmed (and Gladiator 2 too for you Paul Mescal fans.

 

Gals Who Morocco (9 Days)

 

Where to watch in the UK:
Streaming on Netflix UK.

 

The teachers of a local cooking class in Morocco
Two young female travellers in Morocco pose in front of Kutubiyya Mosque in Marrakech

 

 3. Mamma Mia! (1 or 2!)

 

This one explains itself! Mamma Mia is the perfect warm-up for sun, sea, dancing and Greek summer vibes. We’re sure you will all have watched it by now, but if somehow you haven’t, the film is filled with endless ABBA sing-alongs, it’ll get you dreaming of seaside tavernas, blue waters and dancing under the stars. Our Gals Who Greece trip dropped last year, and it has been super popular for those of you wanting to live your best Euro summer lives! We LOVE Greece, and Mamma Mia will always have us dreaming of eating gyros, soaking up the vitamin D on a stunning beach!

 

Gals Who Greece Trip (7 Days)

 

Where to watch in the UK:
Streaming on Sky Go / NOW, and at times they're available for free on ITVX, with options to rent or buy on Amazon Video / Sky Store / Apple TV Store.

 

4. Eat Pray Love


Based on a bestselling book, this globe-spanning journey follows Julia Roberts’ character as she travels through Italy, India and Bali in search of happiness and meaning. It’s the ideal watch to inspire you, especially before a Bali or Italian adventure. With spiritual moments and stunning landscapes, this film will show you the magic of travelling, connecting with others and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone - basically everything we LOVE doing here at Gals Who Travel!

 

Gals Who Bali Bliss (10 Days) and Bali Paradise (11 Days)

 

Where to watch in the UK:
Eat Pray Love is streaming on Netflix UK.

 

Local asians holding large colourful head ornaments
group of girls at rice terraces in ubud bali with blue sky and green palm trees in background

 

5. Spirited Away (or any Studio Ghibli film)

 

Watching Studio Ghibli before visiting Japan is the perfect way to step into the country’s spirit before you land. Spirited Away is inspired by Japanese folklore, Shinto beliefs, and the country’s connection to nature. It also captures that magical, slightly surreal feeling Japan does so well, where neon cities meet ancient rituals, preparing you for the sense of wonder that comes with exploring somewhere completely new.

 

From the beautifully animated food scenes that will make you crave ramen and street snacks, to the quiet appreciation of small everyday moments, Studio Ghibli trains you to slow down and notice the small details, which is exactly how Japan is best experienced. So if you have your eye on the Gals Who Japan trip, we’d really recommend watching Spirited Away before you go, you’ll see Japan in a new way if you do!

 

Gals Who Japan Trip (13 Days)

 

Where to watch in the UK:
Spirited Away is available to stream on Netflix UK

 

So there you go, whether you have a trip coming up or you want some inspiration for your next adventure, all of these are 10/10 watches!