by Shannon Lintott
With spring in the air, I don’t think I’m alone in feeling the itch for travel. What better way to prepare for an adventure, or become inspired to take that one trip you’ve been wanting to go on, than a good travel film. They may not all be about going on a trip per se, but all of them are filled with adventure, beautiful scenery and a hint of inspiration.
So, without further ado, here is my list of my Top 10 Best Travel Movies:
Into the Wild
This is one of my favourite travel films to date. Not only is Emile Hirsh beyond fantastic in this role but the fact that it’s based on a true story makes the inspiration and excitement even stronger. The people he meets, the things he sees and the fulfillment he gets from finally living his dream of roaming America should nag at your need to travel probably more than you’ll be able to bear…as long as you don’t mind sad endings.
The Goonies
I had to put this one in here. I know that they don’t really “travel” but this movie is easily one of the best adventure films to date. I think it is especially relevant with March break coming up and kids starting to look in the garage at their dusty bikes just waiting for the snow to melt. Everyone dreams a big, fun adventure with pirate ships and sword play – this one will make you smile but also help kindle the travel fire.
The Beach
A little but more intense but you really cannot deny the beauty that is the landscape in this movie. That alone is why I decided to include this in my favourite travel movies: its’ stunning. Just looking at the beach and that water makes me ready to break out the swim suit and buy sunscreen.
Eat Pray Love
Adding a little love into the mix! I think this is one of my new favourite romance/travel movies. I mean, how much more straight forward can a travel movie be when it’s about a woman who spends an entire year living in three very different places: Italy, India and Bali? Who doesn’t daydream about a little spring fling when the birds start to chirp in the morning? No? Well, if not, maybe the beautiful scenery and the different cultures will keep you busy while this lady tries to find the love that’s right for her while wandering the globe. You have to respect and maybe even envy her get-up-and-go mentality.
The Motorcycle Diaries
Getting on a motorcycle with your best friend and heading on the open road…’nough said! This is beyond a solid piece of cinema. It doesn’t really need all the travel in it to be watchable but it’s a lovely bonus, plus this is definitely a trip of a life time type of movie. Not only is their journey inspirational enough as it is but then on they go to help head a revolution. Now that’s what I call a successful trip!
The Darjeeling Limited
A little bit off the beaten path, this travel film is full of laughs while taking you on a tour of a different culture and beautiful country. It’s the adventure of a life time and definitely perfect for all types of travelers as each character has their own little personal quirks. This is probably one of the best movies that really shows you how travel can change you if you let it. All travel talk aside, this film is fantastic and doesn’t even need the location to make it worth the watch…but it doesn’t hurt.