The ultimate travel guide for film and TV lovers: 2024 to 2025 edition

With the latest series of the BBC's Race Across the World set to wow viewers with scenes from China, the mountainous landcapes of Nepal and India, we thought we'd have a look at some of the other stunning destinations that have featured in TV and film recently.

From the lush Peruvian jungles in the latest Paddington film to the gothic Irish landscapes in Wednesday, these destinations offer the perfect mix of cinematic magic and real-world adventure. Here's where to go to relive the best on-screen moments of the year in real life.

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Paddington in Peru | Peru

The loveable bear returned in 2024 for Paddington in Peru, the third instalment of the Paddington film series. This time, Paddington embarks on an adventure back to his homeland, leading to heartwarming moments and breathtaking South American scenery.

Much of the film was shot in Peru, the birthplace of the beloved bear. Visitors can explore the vibrant capital, Lima, with its colonial architecture and bustling markets, or head into the Andes to experience the mystical beauty of Machu Picchu. The Amazon rainforest also offers a glimpse into the natural wonders that inspired Paddington's original home.

Wednesday | County Wicklow

Wednesday returns this year for a second season after the first instalment's massive success on Netflix. With Jenna Ortega reprising her role as the gothic teen detective, the new season promises more dark mysteries, sharp wit, and eerie visuals.

Filming took place in County Wicklow, Ireland, known for its lush landscapes and historic estates. The county is home to locations like Powerscourt Estate and Wicklow Mountains National Park, providing a suitably gothic backdrop for Wednesday's adventures. We recommend you fly into Dublin, take in the sights and world-beating Guinness, then head south to explore Wicklow.

Virgin River | Vancouver & British Columbia

Netflix's Virgin River continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt drama, picturesque small-town setting, and romantic twists. The new season deepens the relationships and challenges of the characters while showcasing breathtaking Pacific Northwest scenery.

Though set in California, Virgin River is filmed in British Columbia, with Vancouver and the surrounding wilderness standing in for the fictional town. Fans can visit locations like Squamish or Port Coquitlam to see the real-life spots that bring the series to life.

The White Lotus | Thailand

HBO's The White Lotus moves to Thailand for its third season, continuing its satirical take on the ultra-rich vacationing at luxury resorts. The new season promises another darkly comedic mystery set in an exotic paradise.

Filming took place across Thailand, including Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui. Fans can experience the same opulence by visiting the country's high-end resorts, exploring its bustling cities, or relaxing on the pristine beaches that serve as a backdrop for the drama.

Andor | Dorset

The second season of Andor, the critically acclaimed Star Wars prequel, continues the story of Cassian Andor as he becomes further entangled in the Rebellion. With gritty storytelling and immersive world-building, this season is set to be just as thrilling as the first.

Winspit Quarry in Dorset returns as a filming location, having previously served as an alien planet in the Star Wars universe. The dramatic limestone cliffs and abandoned quarry provide a rugged, otherworldly landscape that visitors can explore along the Jurassic Coast.

The Acolyte | Madeira and South Wales

The second Star Wars series on our list, The Acolyte is set in the final days of the High Republic. With a focus on the dark side, it offers a new perspective on the galaxy far, far away.

Filming took place in Madeira and South Wales. Madeira's volcanic landscapes and lush forests create an exotic and mysterious backdrop, while the wild coastline of Wales adds an atmospheric, medieval setting. Fans can visit these stunning locations to experience the cinematic magic in real life.

Gladiator 2 | Malta

The long-awaited sequel to Gladiator brought back the epic historical drama, with Ridley Scott once again directing. Set years after the events of the original film, it follows a new protagonist caught in the political intrigue of ancient Rome.

Malta, which played a major role in the first film, returns as a filming location. Fans can visit Fort Ricasoli, which was used to recreate the Colosseum, or explore the ancient streets of Mdina and Valletta, which provide a perfect setting for Roman-era drama.

The Last of Us | Vancouver & Alberta

HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us continues with its second season, following Joel and Ellie's emotional and harrowing journey in a post-apocalyptic world. Based on the critically acclaimed video game, the series combines gripping storytelling with stunning visuals.

Season 2 shifts its primary filming to Vancouver and Alberta, where Canada's vast forests and snowy mountains provide the perfect backdrop. Fans can explore the same landscapes by visiting locations like Kamloops or the streets of Vancouver, which double as the devastated world of the game.

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28 Years Later | Northumberland

Danny Boyle's 28 Years Later, the long-awaited third film in the 28 Days Later series, continues the story of the rage virus that devastated Britain. Expect intense horror, social commentary, and breathtaking cinematography.

Filming is set in atmospheric locations like Lindisfarne, an island off the northeast coast of England, known for its hauntingly beautiful ruins and tidal causeway. Kielder Forest in Northumberland, with its dense woodlands and remote setting, adds to the eerie, apocalyptic feel of the film.

Yellowstone | Montana & Utah

Yellowstone, the hit Western drama, continues its saga of family conflict, land battles, and stunning cinematography. The future of the Dutton family remains uncertain, but the show's breathtaking landscapes remain a constant draw.

Montana and Utah provide the sweeping vistas that define Yellowstone. Fans can visit the stunning Bitterroot Valley in Montana, where much of the series is filmed, or take in the rugged beauty of Ogden or Spanish Fork in Utah, which have also served as backdrops for key scenes.