Whether it’s filming Lord of the Rings among the vast green open spaces of New Zealand or Jurassic Park on a tiny Hawaiian Island, it’s often the scenery that steals the show.
But probably few more so than these:
Savoca and its now legendary Bar Vitelli and Michael Corleone’s wedding church remain today pretty much as they were when the scenes were shot in the early seventies. There’s a table outside the bar where Al Pacino’s Michael sat with Mafioso minders, Fabrizio and Calo and you can still stroll the nearby countryside just as he did while courting his bride, Appollina. It’s an offer you can’t refuse.
Read also: Road Trip to the Deep South of Sicily
2The Beach – Thailand
The most recognisable is the spectacular Maya Bay which is surrounded by 100-metre high cliffs on three sides. Some of its beaches are completely hidden and only reveal themselves when a low tide reveals soft white sand and water so clear you can see the vividly-coloured corals and the most exotic fish. But if, like DiCaprio’s character, it’s escapism you’re looking for, be sure to get there early. When the sun is at its highest, you may find more tourists than extras on a film set.
Read also our 2 minute travel guide to Thailand and the article on Alternative Bangkok and spiritual Chiang Mai
3Out of Africa – Kenya
Kenya itself is a place of dramatic extremes with its Alpine snows and blazing deserts that make it the epitome of wild Africa and the place where safaris were born. The ultimate destination is, of course, the Maasai Mara, particularly in the July-October migration season. You don’t need a Streep or Redford to fall in love with. The country alone will seduce you.
Read also: Top 5 African safari destinations
4To catch a thief – French Riviera
It was one of those films where the location was the star. Kelly fell in love with much if it, including majestic buildings such as the Castle of la Croix des Gardes where scenes of the spectacular masquerade ball were shot. In fact, not long afterwards, aged only 26, she gave up Hollywood and moved there to marry her prince. That may not be an option for the rest of us, but it’s worth a visit if only to catch a glimpse.
Browse through our French Riviera articles
5Before Sunrise – Vienna
They visit a few cafes, play pinball in one and play out one of the most memorable scenes in which they play a game of bogus phone conversations with each other in another, the Café Sperl, one of the most famous of the city’s period and stylish turn of the century eateries.
Hawke even manages some poetry of his own, reciting WH Auden on the balcony of the Albertina Palais Museum.
