July 05, 2018 3 min read

Hey there, OTBT wanderers!

After a long day of exploring in the hot summer sun, there’s no better way to unwind then to sit back, relax, and indulge in a must-see movie. Thankfully, this summer season is filled with hot new blockbusters – from Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom to Mamma Mia 2. Films like these are special, because they give us movie-goers the freedom to explore from different worlds and bring adventures to life. But you know what’s even better than watching movies? Seeing those places for yourself! So for all you wanderers and movie fans alike, here are five must-see movie sites for all your viewing and adventuring delights!

Leadenhall Market, London

For those of you who long to explore all the hidden passageways of Hogwarts and try Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans, then Leadenhall Market in London is the place for you! Not only is this the location of Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter films, but it also has a variety of local shops, must-try Thai food, and historical beauty that can’t be beat. While in London you may also wish to explore Borough Market, another filming location used for Diagon Alley and one of the largest and oldest markets in London. All you need to do is catch the Hogwarts Express at King Cross Station - so jump on your magic broom stick, and you’ll be there before you know it!

Matamata, New Zealand

If you are looking for a destination inspired by epic adventure, then Matamata, New Zealand is the place for you. Matamata is where the famous Hobbiton is located and is an absolute essential for any true Lord of the Rings fan. While there, you can also explore, hike, and feast on local favorites, maybe even eat some po-tat-toes. After a long day on set, you can sleep in a cozy hobbit themed hotel and wake to take a helicopter ride over the misty mountains, something that is sure to make any traveler’s heart soar! So now it’s up to you to decide what to do with the time that is given, and remember - not all who wander are lost.

Grand Central Market, California

For all of those who la-la-love musicals, then this next place is sure to make your heart sing!  Grand Central Market in Los Angeles, California is a splendid open-air market filled with life and color. Besides being the place where Mia and Sebastian had their first date in the 2016 hit musical La La Land, it is also known for its out-of-this-world cuisine. While in California, you might also want to check out Griffith Observatoryanother lovely place used in the film and great for those who wish to roam among the stars. If you are jazzed about the future, then Cali might just be calling you.

Limahuli Garden & Preserve, Hawaii

For those of you who are feeling a bit more tropical, then Limahuli Garden & Preserve in Hanalei, Hawaii is meant for you. Besides providing the background for several scenes in Jurassic Park, this landscape is truly breathtaking in every way. And with the release of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdomnow is the perfect time to go. While Limahuli isn’t quite as prehistoric as the dinosaurs, it has been around for over a thousand years. This area is home to a wide diversity of plant and animal life. From the mountain tops to the valleys, you might see several unexpected things here, though nothing as terrifying as a T-Rex. And if botany and fossils are not your thing, you can also relax at the nearby Ke'e State Beach Park.  And remember, life will find a way, so go ahead and immerse yourself in all nature has to offer.

Damouchari, Greece

If you want to take a chance or lay all your love down, then you should visit Damouchrai, Greece. Damouchari was the location used to film several of the seaside scenes in the 2008 movie Mamma Mia. This is a true treat for all you wanderers who wish to have the sea in your hair and the wind to your back. After relaxing on the beach, you can explore Damouchari Castle and feel what it’s like to be a dancing queen. With the upcoming release of Mamma Mia 2, how can you resist such a trip? You know the name of the game, so send an SOS to all your friends because you deserve a vacation!

No matter what your favorite movie is or where you travel this summer, make sure you always explore in style with your favorite OTBT Travel Lite shoes, great for wherever your heart may wander.

What do you think? Any famous filming sites we missed? Let us know in the comments below.


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