Latest news with #Greeka
IOL News
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Wanderlust, but make it cinematic: the global rise of set-jetting
If you're a true 'Mamma Mia!' fan, the Agios Ioannis Chapel in Greece will evoke a cherished memory. Image: Greeka Ever found yourself so swept away by the picturesque landscapes of a film or TV series that you added it to your bucket list of destinations? Of course, not everyone can immediately hop on a plane and explore the place that has captured their heart and imagination; such trips require planning and fiscal flexibility. For me, two films stoked my wanderlust. The first was 'Eat Pray Love' with Julia Roberts as the protagonist, rediscovering herself in Italy (Rome and Naples), India (Pataudi and Delhi) and Bali (Ubud and Padang Padang Beach). Everything about her food to cultural experiences gave viewers serious FOMO. Since the movie's release in 2010, many have flocked to these destinations to either have their own 'Eat Pray Love' moment or simply to bask in the joy of exploring them. The other movie was 'Under the Tuscan Sun', released in 2003, with Diane Lane. It was filmed in an off-the-beaten-path village. It was rustic, beautiful and heart-warming. More recently, my obsession with K-dramas has left me fascinated with fascinating Seoul. Just the culture, food and place itself have stolen my heart. My musings do have a point. It is that knock-on effect that film and TV shows have on tourism, with the rise of set-jetting. It started getting some traction with the release of 'Braveheart' (Scotland, 1995) and 'Notting Hill' (London, 1999), which piqued international curiosity. Then, from 2001 to 2003, 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy saw a rise in tourism in New Zealand. And this wave of fandom is sparking a surge in location visits and continues to gain momentum like it did with 'Game of Thrones', which sent fans exploring Croatia, Northern Ireland, Spain and Iceland. And, more recently, season three of 'The White Lotus', which was filmed in Thailand, garnered a similar reaction. For filmgoers looking for a real-life "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" experience, the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour in New Zealand has become the top destination. Image: Pexels/ Donovan Kelly Below are a few countries that have witnessed a surge spurred on by screen tourism: New Zealand When we think of iconic offerings, this is the place where fantasies are lived out. If you are a die-hard fan of 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' franchise, you are going to have to brace yourself for some serious goosebump moments. Places that draw the attention of travellers include Matamata in Waikato. This is the home of the preserved movie set for the aforementioned movies. You can explore Bilbo's Bag End, Green Dragon Inn and The Party Tree and Hobbit Holes. It doesn't get any more immersive than this with guided tours, food and even themed festivals. Other captivating places include Tongariro National Park in the North Island, which has one of the best day hiking trails; Glenorchy (near Queenstown), which is the go-to filming spot for battle scenes; Mount Sunday, Canterbury Region, a desolate hilltop in a glacial valley, which offers panoramic mountain views; and, last but not least, Putangirua Pinnacles in Wairarapa, which is an Instagrammer's dream for capturing eerie and iconic weathered rock formations. Fans of 'The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian' will need to make their way to Cathedral Cove, which boasts a dreamy archway to a stunning beach surrounded by white sand. This screams postcard-perfect location. For James Bond aficionados, 'For Your Eyes Only' (1981) features prominent action scenes filmed on the monastery-top cliffs of Meteora. Image: On the Go Tours Greece Phew, where does one start? There are so many offerings that fuelled the desire to travel here. One of the obvious offerings is 'Mamma Mia!'(2008). It has become the sought-after destination for romantic escapes as well as - no surprises here - ABBA-themed island tours. These are your key stopovers if you want to relive scenes from the movie: Agios Ioannis Chapel (Skopelos): The dramatic hilltop church where the wedding scene was filmed. Kastani Beach (Skopelos): 'Lay All Your Love on Me' scene. Skiathos Port: Departure scenes and ferry shots. Other popular attractions include Athens, which charmed fans of 'Before Midnight' (2013), visiting the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Plaka district and the Temple of Poseidon, Sounion. And if you are a James Bond aficionado, some of the prominent action scenes in 'For Your Eyes Only' (1981) were filmed on the monastery-top cliffs of Meteora. Interestingly, it is one of Greece's most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Fans of 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3' (2023) and 'Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022) have also flocked here to get a taste of what the place has to offer, beyond the lens of the film-makers camera. Times Square, a must-experience destination, has been prominently featured in films such as 'Spider-Man', 'Vanilla Sky', and 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2'. Image: Pexels/ Vladealex9 New York City When you think of pop culture TV shows and films, this is their birthplace. Central Park has been such a key filming location for so many offerings, from 'Home Alone 2' and 'Enchanted' to 'When Harry Met Sally'. Also shot here were the 'King Kong (1933 and 2005), 'Sleepless in Seattle and 'An Affair to Remember' were shot. The bustling Times Square as seen in 'Spider-Man', 'Vanilla Sky' and 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2' is a must experience. I have been fortunate to visit this city twice, and the energy that you feel walking through it is something else. Also, I can't get over those Shake Shack burgers, fries and milkshakes. If you are ever in town, try them. The NYSE Building, Charging Bull and Fearless Girl bronze statues, as well as Federal Hall, are renowned in offerings like 'The Wolf of Wall Street', 'American Psycho' and 'Inside Man'. 'Sex and the City' and its spinoff 'And Just Like That…' as well as 'Gossip Girl', incentivised the hype around the Big Apple. The Sherlock Holmes Museum, located at 221B Baker Street, has consistently attracted a large number of detective fiction enthusiasts. Image: Pexels/ Anna Kozlova London 'Harry Potter' fans find themselves spellbound in the city. King's Cross Station is popular for that infamous platform departure to Hogwarts. Other landmark places include the Millennium Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral. Of course, you would be remiss if you didn't visit Buckingham Palace, which is a normal drawcard but, now more so, after 'The Crown', 'The King's Speech' and 'Paddington'. Fans of the whodunnit 'Sherlock Holmes' often stop by the Sherlock Holmes Museum, at 221B Baker Street, as well as the nearby Sherlock Holmes pub, which is bedecked with memorabilia. Hands up if you are a 'Bridget Jones Diary' fan. Well, the Borough Market is worth checking out. Open six days a week, it prides itself on its fresh produce and street food amid a very atmospheric space that tempts the taste buds to no end. Shakaland Zulu Cultural Village has been on the radar for fans of 'Shaka Zulu' and 'The Woman King', offering an authentic historical experience. Image: Tripadvisor South Africa Mzansi isn't without a few key spots that have attracted travellers, too. In the Mother City, places like Camps Bay, Clifton beaches, the University of Cape Town, as well as Cape Town High School, have sparked interest after the release of 'Blood & Water' and 'The Kissing Booth'. The Cape Winelands and Karoo towns have been attracting slow-travellers and foodies, especially after 'Recipes for Love and Murder'. Travellers are drawn to the scenic countryside, too. In Johannesburg, the Oscar-nominated 'District 9' got fans curious about the city's urban charm, which lent itself to the gritty sci-fi landscapes in the film. Thanks to offerings like 'Sarafina!' and 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom', which harked back to South Africa's resilient history during apartheid, Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Memorial and Constitution Hill have become popular spots. Not to be outdone, KwaZulu-Natal, where the bulk of 'The Women King' scenes were filmed, has helped put the city on the global map. That's not forgetting 'Shaka Zulu' and the various documentaries and series since the compelling historical series in 1986. Places like Shakaland Zulu Cultural Village, Ulundi and the Valley of a Thousand Hills have become popular tourist haunts.
Daily Mirror
23-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Quiet Greek island with secluded beaches 'perfect for tranquil summer holiday'
Some Greek islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, are brimming with tourists in summer and can get crowded so a travel fan has shared an alternative that is less busy but is just as beautiful Brits with a love for Mediterranean getaways often jet off to Greece, particularly during the summer months. Seeking sun without straying too far from home, UK holidaymakers typically opt for Greek destinations, as most flights are under four hours. Greece's allure lies in its iconic white-washed structures, idyllic beaches, and a history steeped in ancient ruins. While many British tourists gravitate towards famed Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini, these spots can become quite congested during peak season. However, there are lesser-known gems that offer equal charm without the crowds. Essex-based travel content creator Dorota Urbaniak shares advice, inspiration, and hotel reviews, with a particular fondness for European trips. In a recent TikTok video, she shone a spotlight on the island of Paros. Dorota emphasised that "not every Greek island is busy in summer" by showcasing the serene atmosphere of Paros from dawn till dusk on a day during her visit. Nestled in the Aegean Sea, Paros is celebrated for its golden beaches, lush mountainscapes, and villages perched atop cliffs. Centrally located within the Cyclades Islands, it boasts numerous sandy shores, verdant peaks, and cliff-side hamlets. The bustling hubs of Parikia and Naoussa are popular for nightlife, as noted by Greeka. These villages are full of "traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants and sophisticated bars." Holidaymakers who prefer tranquillity over loud music can explore the serene villages of Lefkes and Marpissa. Dorota's TikTok video, which features clips of Paros from 9am to 8pm, showcases the island's peacefulness as she strolls down the streets and relaxed on a quiet, sandy beach. She also highlights the white buildings, a seaside restaurant with outdoor tables, and vibrant flowers. In her TikTok post caption, she notes: "I'm only every Greek island is busy in summer." Her video portrays Paros as a relaxing and uncrowded destination. Greeka points out that the island is renowned for its "stunning" beaches, including Santa Maria, Golden Beach and Kolymbithres, which are among the most popular. However, the Greek tourism website also mentions numerous secluded beaches for those seeking privacy. The weather in Paros is hot and sunny in the summer but mild in the winter, and it "gets very humid at night", according to Greeka. Paros is a prime spot for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the ideal wind conditions provided by the Meltemi winds, strong, dry, northerly winds that blow across the Aegean Sea during the summer months. The island is easily accessible by plane from Athens International Airport and by ferry from the ports of Athens (Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio), Mykonos, Santorini Naxos, and many more Cycladic islands. In the comments of her TikTok post, Dorota emphasised "not every Greek island is busy" and advised followers to "choose wisely." A user said: "I need to go asap" while another labelled Paros as "amazing."
Daily Mail
16-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Greece's most walkable island revealed - with turquoise waters and unspoiled beauty
Dreaming of escaping to a Greek island? A gorgeous and little-known island has been described as one of the country's most walkable destinations and tourists definitely won't need a car to get around. Koufonisi island is one of three small islands in the Greek Cyclades and is sometimes known as Pano Koufonisi or Ano Koufonisi. It's the most developed of the three islands but has remained unspoiled despite its proximity to bustling Santorini. As Koufonisi is just 5.7 sq km wide, it's possible to explore the entire island on foot although tourists should avoid doing so during the heat of summer. The Greece experts at describe Koufounisi as a 'heavenly' spot with 'unspoiled beaches' that 'rank among the best in the entire Cyclades'. Amnos Beach is one of the island's best-rated on Tripadvisor with an incredible 4.6 out of 5 star rating. 'Babou' writes: 'This beach is the first thing you see when you arrive on the island by ferry. Huge, very clean [and] fine sand.' Kimberley says: 'One of our favourite beaches in Koufonisia and certainly the best beach we've been to in the centre of a town. I could've stared at the water forever.' Meanwhile, one reviewer describes Finikas Beach as a 'small piece of paradise' that 'seems almost unreal'. They say: 'When I arrived, I was struck by the simplicity and beauty of the place. The golden sand blends perfectly with the crystal clear waters, which seem to invite you to dive immediately.' As Koufonisi is a small island, there's not much to do beyond relaxing, so it's the perfect spot for those looking to unwind in peace and quiet. How to get to Koufonisi British tourists can take a direct flight to Athens before catching a ferry to Ano Koufonisi. The ferry from Athens generally takes just over five hours. Island hoppers can also reach Koufonisi on ferries from Naxos, Paros or Amorgos. What's the weather like in Koufonisi The island is hottest during July and August when temperatures regularly soar beyond 30 degrees Celsius. Average highs can also reach as high as 25 degrees Celsius in May, June and September. Where to stay in Koufonisi The majority of hotels on the island are located close to the port, making them easily accessible from the ferry. Tourists who stay in this part of the island will be just a short walk from pretty Amnos Beach.
Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Greece's stunning island that's 26C in June and has crystal-clear waters
The Greek island of Symi is filled with pretty houses, epic beaches, and crystal-clear waters, but it has not seen the same visitor numbers as the likes of Crete, Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu Greece is home to dozens of beautiful islands that attract millions of tourists annually. Among the most frequented are Santorini, Crete, Naxos, Mykonos and Corfu. However, while some enjoy immense popularity, there are others that despite their own charm, haven't seen the same vast numbers of visitors. Symi, located off the west coast of Greece and east of Tilos, is one of the most picturesque in the region. Part of the Dodecanese island group, it's best known for its charming houses, stunning beaches and close proximity to the popular and significantly larger Greek island of Rhodes located to its south east. According to Visit Greece, the main town shares its name with the island it resides on. Interestingly, the town of Symi is reportedly divided into two parts, Gialos and Chorio. Gialos is the section of the town nearest to the harbour and Chorio, meaning village, sprawls across the closest hillside, reports the Express. Despite its small size, there's a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to engage with. These include visiting the local clock tower known as the Roloi, the statue of fisher boy Michalaki, the town hall, and the Naval Museum. Moreover, thousands of visitors make the journey to the Agios Ioannis, which serves as the main church of the town. Access to Symi is only possible by boats and ferries after landing in mainland Greece. Travel website Greeka stated that it's possible to reach the island via Athens and its Piraeus port. Symi, like many other Greek islands, can get scorching hot during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 26C in June and 28C in July and August. These sweltering temperatures make it ideal weather for lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun's rays and cooling off in the sea. As a result, spots like Saint George Bay and Nanou Beach have garnered rave reviews on TripAdvisor. On Saint George Bay, Stavros L raved: "A must if you visit Symi. Amazing blue water and the surrounding cliffs create a unique atmosphere, quite crowded during July/August but worth it." Fellow user Hills A was equally impressed with Nanou Beach, saying: "Arrived at Nanou beach via our hired boat from Symi Coral Rent a Boat in Pedi favourite bay in Symi. "Crystal clear water, turquoise blue, perfect for snorkelling! The taverna there has delicious and fresh cuisine, plus friendly goats! Definitely going back soon!"
