TV Tourism: The Key to Unlocking a Country’s Hidden Gems

In recent years, the world of tourism has seen a significant shift in the way people choose their travel destinations. Gone are the days of relying solely on travel brochures and recommendations from friends and family. Today, television shows and movies have become a major driving force behind the tourism industry, with many travelers seeking out the locations and landscapes that they have seen on screen. This phenomenon, known as TV tourism, has opened up new opportunities for countries to showcase their hidden gems and attract visitors from around the world.

The Power of TV Tourism

TV tourism is the practice of traveling to a destination because of its appearance in a television show or movie. This can include visiting filming locations, attending themed events, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine that is showcased on screen. The power of TV tourism lies in its ability to inspire people to visit places that they may not have considered before. A recent study found that 80% of tourists visit a destination because of its appearance in a TV show or movie, with 70% of those visitors citing the TV show or movie as the primary reason for their trip.

Game of Thrones: A Case Study in TV Tourism

One of the most notable examples of TV tourism is the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. The show, which was filmed in numerous locations around the world, including Croatia, Iceland, and Northern Ireland, has had a significant impact on the tourism industry. Since the show’s debut in 2011, the number of tourists visiting these locations has increased dramatically, with many fans flocking to see the real-life locations that brought the show’s fictional world to life. In Croatia, for example, the city of Dubrovnik, which was used as the filming location for King’s Landing, has seen a 50% increase in tourism since the show’s debut.

The Benefits of TV Tourism

TV tourism is not only beneficial for fans of the show, but also for the local economy and community. By attracting visitors from around the world, TV tourism can bring in significant revenue and create new job opportunities. Additionally, TV tourism can help to promote the local culture and heritage of a destination, by showcasing its unique traditions, cuisine, and landscapes. In Northern Ireland, for example, the local government has capitalized on the success of Game of Thrones by launching a series of themed tours and experiences, including a self-guided driving tour of filming locations and a behind-the-scenes look at the show’s production.

Unlocking Hidden Gems

TV tourism is also a key way to unlock a country’s hidden gems. By showcasing lesser-known locations and landscapes on screen, TV shows and movies can inspire people to visit places that they may not have considered before. In Iceland, for example, the TV show Vikings has helped to promote the country’s stunning natural landscapes, including the picturesque town of Akranes, which was used as a filming location for the show. Similarly, in the United States, the TV show Stranger Things has helped to put the small town of Jackson, Georgia, on the map, with many fans visiting the town to see the real-life locations that were used in the show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TV tourism is a powerful force in the tourism industry, with the ability to inspire people to visit new and exciting destinations. By showcasing a country’s hidden gems on screen, TV shows and movies can attract visitors from around the world, bringing in significant revenue and creating new job opportunities. Whether it’s the stunning landscapes of Iceland, the historic city of Dubrovnik, or the small town of Jackson, Georgia, TV tourism is a key way to unlock a country’s secrets and explore its unique culture and heritage. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, consider the TV shows and movies that have inspired you to travel, and get ready to experience the magic of TV tourism for yourself.

Recommendations for Travelers

• Research the filming locations of your favorite TV shows and movies to plan your next trip.
• Consider visiting lesser-known locations and landmarks that are off the beaten path.
• Look for local tours and experiences that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the filming process.
• Be respectful of local communities and environments, and always follow responsible tourism practices.
• Don’t be afraid to try new things and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.

Recommendations for Destinations

• Capitalize on the success of TV tourism by launching themed tours and experiences.
• Promote your location’s unique culture and heritage to attract visitors.
• Consider partnering with production companies to film on location and promote your destination to a global audience.
• Develop infrastructure and amenities to support the influx of tourists, including accommodations, restaurants, and transportation.
• Work with local communities to ensure that tourism development is sustainable and responsible.