From screen to suitcase: How TV shows like Bridgerton and The White Lotus are inspiring travel trends

In the age of streaming, pop culture has become a powerful force in shaping travel trends. Viewers are no longer just passive consumers of television and film; they are inspired to visit the breathtaking locations showcased on screen. From the grand estates of Bridgerton and Downton Abbey in the UK to the luxurious resorts of The White Lotus in Thailand, pop culture-driven tourism is booming. Travelers are seeking out real-life locations from their favourite shows, hoping to immerse themselves in the glamour, history, and drama of these cinematic destinations.

Bridgerton and Downton Abbey: A regency and Edwardian fairytale in the UK

Netflix’s Bridgerton has captivated audiences with its lavish settings, stunning costumes, and high-society intrigue. The show, set in Regency-era England, has led to a surge of interest in grand British estates and historic cities. Fans are flocking to locations like Bath, where the show’s cobbled streets and Georgian architecture serve as the perfect backdrop for high society romance. Other key filming sites include Ranger’s House in Greenwich (the exterior of the Bridgerton family home) and Castle Howard in Yorkshire, which doubled as the Duke of Hastings’ estate.

Similarly, Downton Abbey continues to fuel tourism more than a decade after its debut. Highclere Castle, the iconic estate where the Crawley family resides, remains a bucket-list destination for fans of the series. Tourists can explore the grand rooms, gardens, and even book afternoon tea experiences inspired by the show’s elegant Edwardian setting.

For Canadian travellers, getting to the UK has never been easier, with direct flights from Toronto and Vancouver to London on airlines such as Air Canada and British Airways. From there, it's a quick train journey to many of these historic filming locations.

The White Lotus effect: From Sicily to Thailand

HBO’s The White Lotus has made luxury travel aspirational in a whole new way. Each season showcases a different opulent destination, sparking interest in high-end, immersive experiences. After the second season, set in Sicily, travel to the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Taormina skyrocketed, with fans eager to sip an Aperol Spritz while taking in the breathtaking Mediterranean views.

The upcoming third season, set in Thailand, is expected to do the same for Southeast Asian travel. Filming has taken place in Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok, highlighting Thailand’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious resorts. With the show’s reputation for stunning cinematography and dramatic storytelling, Thailand is set to become a top travel destination for those looking to indulge in an exotic getaway.

Canadians looking to experience their own White Lotus moment can now fly direct to Bangkok on Thai Airways from Vancouver, with easy connections from other major cities. Phuket and Koh Samui are also accessible via short domestic flights or scenic ferry rides.

Emily in Paris: The Instagram effect on Parisian tourism

Netflix’s Emily in Paris has put a spotlight on the City of Light, driving a new wave of interest in Parisian culture, fashion, and dining. The series, which follows the adventures of an American marketing executive in Paris, has transformed locations like Place de l’Estrapade (Emily’s apartment) and Café de Flore (a favourite hangout) into must-visit spots for fans.

Beyond the picturesque streets and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine, the show has also boosted interest in Parisian fashion tours, macaron-making classes, and stylish stays in boutique hotels. The Emily in Paris effect proves that even well-loved destinations can experience a resurgence when seen through a fresh, cinematic lens.

With multiple daily direct flights from Canada to Paris, including on Air Canada and Air France, fans can easily book a stylish Parisian getaway with minimal travel time.

The Game of Thrones legacy in Croatia and beyond

While Game of Thrones may have ended in 2019, its impact on travel remains strong. Dubrovnik, Croatia, which served as King’s Landing, continues to draw fans eager to walk the medieval walls and visit sites like Fort Lovrijenac. The show also popularized travel to Northern Ireland, where The Dark Hedges and Castle Ward (Winterfell) remain top tourist spots.

Other series, such as House of the Dragon, are keeping the momentum alive, ensuring that fantasy travel remains a key trend for those looking to experience the world of Westeros in real life.

Reaching Croatia from Canada is easier than ever, with short connections through major European hubs like London, Frankfurt, and Paris. Sicily, thanks to its White Lotus fame, is also accessible with a quick flight from Rome.

Final thoughts: Travel, fantasy, and the power of storytelling

Pop culture has the unique ability to transport us to different worlds, and now, travellers are using these on-screen experiences to inspire their real-life adventures. Whether it’s indulging in Bridgerton-style luxury in the English countryside, stepping into Emily’s Parisian world, or lounging in White Lotus-worthy tropical resorts, TV and film continue to shape how and where we travel.

As more shows spotlight unique and breathtaking destinations, this trend is only expected to grow—because for many travellers, the best adventures begin with the stories they watch on screen.