From The Straits Times    |

By Chua Hui Wan, CEO, ZUJI Singapore

Whether you prefer a relaxing beach getaway or an action-packed holiday weekend, the silver screen is a fantastic place to look for travel inspiration. Films often capture the soul of a bustling city or the scenic beauty of a natural paradise. 

Leading online travel agent, ZUJI, has handpicked five iconic destinations from favourite Hollywood hits that will take you on your next great escape.

BEIJING, CHINATHE LAST EMPEROR

Be transported through time as you enter the gates of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Showcased most elegantly in the Oscar-winning film, The Last Emperor, the vast imperial palace cannot be missed on any tour to China. Reigned by 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it lived up to its name for five and a half centuries, as no one could enter or leave without the emperors’ permission.

Now known as the Palace Museum, it is the world’s largest palace complex, covering 74 hectares of land. Today, fans of the film can easily explore the former residence of Chinese emperors with the help of a private guide. Be in awe of the intricacies and the majestic way of life for the emperors.

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALANDLORD OF THE RINGS

You only need to walk through the countryside of New Zealand to get a taste of J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision of Middle Earth. With its dramatic and diverse scenery, the vast countryside is full of trails that take you past silver lakes, fiery sunsets, verdant hills and smashing waterfalls. Picturing Frodo and Sam on an adventure would not be a stretch of the imagination.

The film has inspired many to visit New Zealand, and to some, the trip can be considered a pilgrimage. Visit Matamata, the home of Hobbiton and The Shire, hike through Tongariro Crossing to immerse yourself in the isolation and atmosphere in Mordor, or go “behind-the-scenes” at the Weta Workshop and their Cave Museum in Miramar. This is one adventure that’s not to be missed!

KYOTO, JAPANMEMOIRS OF A GEISHA

Home to quiet temples, sublime gardens, beautiful shrines and dainty geishas, Kyoto is a must-see for those making a trip to Japan. Walking along the popular district of Gion in Kyoto, movie buffs will surely remember the gorgeous scenes in the award winning Memoirs of a Geisha. Lined with ochaya (tea houses), guests will be entertained by kimono-clad geishas while indulging in a traditional Japanese cultural experience.

Another memorable location from the film is the Fushimi Inari shrine, which a young Sayuri is seen running through to wish for a better life. Visitors can walk through the trail framed by thousands of red gates, otherwise known as tori, to make a wish or pray for help to overcome challenges. 

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIALARA CROFT: TOMB RAIDER

Thanks to the 2001 Hollywood hit, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm is also known to tourists as the “Tomb Raider Temple”. In the action-packed film, Angelina Jolie is seen dodging booby traps through the temple while racing against the Illuminati to find the severed Triangle of Light. However, the temple is usually filled with peace and quiet – it’s especially serene and beautiful in the early mornings.

Located southwest of the East Mebon and east of Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm is accessible by tuk tuk or car. With massive roots and huge trees hugging its untouched structure, the temple is shrouded in dense foliage, and conjures a mystical yet romantic aura. If you’re looking for an adventure in Asia, this might just be your ideal getaway.

BALI, INDONESIAEAT, PRAY, LOVE

Whether you’re aiming for self-discovery or a revitalizing vacation, one will always find Bali to be an ideal holiday destination, with its lush rice paddies, spiritual temples and long golden beaches.

Like Elizabeth Gilbert, played by Julia Roberts in the film, travellers can set up base in Ubud, the centre of the island. As the cultural heart of Bali, it has plenty of enriching activities to offer, from yoga classes and philosophy discussions, to cooking classes. If you’re looking for your future to be told, pay a visit to Ketut Liyer, the medicine man and self-proclaimed psychic made famous by the hit book and movie. Bali offers a holistic holiday experience where everyone gets to live, laugh and love.

For more information on travel sales and long weekend deals, travellers can log on to the ZUJI website, Facebook page, or ZUJI Exclusives. Short on getaway inspiration? Browse for interesting travel stories at the ZUJI Passport blog.