The phenomenon of set-jetting: how Netflix and HBO series are influencing where Kiwis will fly this summer
Last night you finished the final episode of The White Lotus, and by morning you’re already googling a Thai spa paradise. Sound familiar? This phenomenon is called set-jetting: according to an Expedia study, over 60% of travellers admit that locations from TV shows and movies inspire their choice of destination. The challenge? Filming locations are often in remote areas where reliable connectivity is crucial for navigation, translating signs, and finding exact addresses of shooting sites.
Thailand: the White Lotus effect
After the premiere of the third season of HBO’s The White Lotus in February 2025, searches for “vacation in Thailand” skyrocketed by 412%. The five-star Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, where most of the season was filmed, became a must-visit destination – even at over $3700 per night.
But the real magic isn’t in luxury hotels. Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, featuring the lobby and pool scenes, offers rooms from $480 per night. Meanwhile, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park and Fisherman’s Village in Bophut represent the authentic heart of the island.
United Kingdom: from the Highlands to Regency-era estates
Outlander has turned the Scottish Highlands into a magnet for romantics: castles, heather-covered moors, and dramatic landscapes. Inverness has become the base camp for location tours, while Doune Castle hosts themed excursions.
Bridgerton has reshaped the tourist map of Regency England. Bath, where most scenes were filmed, is experiencing a renaissance – walking tours are fully booked months in advance.
Romania: Transylvanian castles after Wednesday
Netflix’s Wednesday introduced Kiwis to another destination. Cantacuzino Castle in Bușteni (the exterior of Nevermore Academy) has become one of the most photographed locations in Eastern Europe. A full trip visiting Transylvanian castles, including the legendary Bran Castle, is far more affordable than classic European routes.
How to turn inspiration into a real trip
Set-jetting requires careful planning, as locations are often far from tourist infrastructure. You need reliable internet for GPS navigation, booking tours, using translators, and sharing experiences.
Traditional roaming from New Zealand operators remains expensive. Spark offers 2GB for $30 over 14 days with additional charges if you exceed the limit. 2degrees charges $8 per day.
eSIM solutions like Yesim are changing the game. Plans are tailored to different travel styles: the Global Package covers over 80 countries, Global Plus covers more than 140, and Pay & Fly operates on pay-as-you-go. For comparison: unlimited data for 15 days in Thailand costs $55, and 10GB for a month in Japan is about $35. Users can test the network for just $1 (500MB).
In each country, Yesim automatically connects to the best network among its 800+ partner operators – especially valuable in remote locations like the Scottish Highlands or Romanian villages.
Setting up takes minutes: download the app while in New Zealand, choose a plan, and activate after arrival. New users can use the promo code GETYESIM15 for a 15% discount.
This summer, Kiwis aren’t just going on another holiday – they’re chasing cinematic experiences. But even the most cinematic trips need pragmatism: reliable connectivity, a realistic budget, and a well-planned itinerary. After all, the best stories happen when a dream is backed by a solid plan.