We at Smiling House are writing to you from Gstaad, Switzerland, a charming alpine village that continues to captivate travelers more than 40 years after The Return of the Pink Panther was filmed here in 1975. Despite the passage of time, this movie remains a key influence in drawing visitors to this picturesque destination, demonstrating the enduring impact of cinema on tourism and bookings.
The Growing Influence of Film on Travel
Today, the influence of film and television on travel has only intensified, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix. A single scene—or even an entire series—can transform a lesser-known location into a must-visit destination. It’s remarkable how films from decades ago, like The Return of the Pink Panther, continue to fuel tourism to these spots.
Iconic Films That Have Shaped Tourism
Other films have shown us just how transformative the connection between movies and destinations can be. Take The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, filmed in New Zealand. These films turned the country’s stunning landscapes into a global attraction, drawing fans from around the world. Similarly, Game of Thrones, filmed in Dubrovnik, Croatia, saw the city’s tourism surge by thousands of percentage points after it was featured as King’s Landing. And last but not least Emily in Paris – the series that has made viewer fall in love with Paris all over again and excites visitors from all over the world.
Gstaad: A Cinematic Destination
Gstaad, meanwhile, remains an enduring draw. Beyond The Return of the Pink Panther, the village has been featured in numerous other films, showcasing its allure to a diverse audience. Bollywood’s Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), for example, features a charming wooden bridge in nearby Saanen, which has become a pilgrimage site for fans. Roman Polanski’s The Palace (2023) put the luxurious, eccentric side of Gstaad in the spotlight, while the 1958 black-and-white classic Thérèse Étienne also showcased the region’s beauty, adding to Gstaad’s cinematic reputation.
The Lasting Impact of Movies on Modern Travel
This leads to an important question: How does a movie from the past continue to affect bookings today? The answer lies in the lasting allure of these films. They transport viewers into new worlds, sparking a desire to visit the real-life locations behind the scenes. Even decades-old films continue to resonate with modern audiences, thanks to their timeless appeal and the rise of nostalgia-driven travel.
The Ripple Effect of Film Tourism
If you’re from a destination featured in a famous film, you’ve probably seen the effects firsthand. For example, Outlanderhas drawn a surge of visitors to Scotland, while films like The Lord of the Rings have boosted tourism in New Zealand. These films provide unparalleled visibility to destinations, driving bookings and sparking interest that often lasts far beyond the initial film release.
Cinema’s Enduring Magic
The relationship between movies and tourism is a powerful one, continuing to influence travel trends long after a film’s debut. It’s a reminder that even a movie from 1975 can continue to shape tourism and bookings today—proof that the magic of cinema is far from fleeting.
Smiling House SetJetter locations
Smiling House offers more than just a luxurious retreat – it also places iconic movie destinations at your fingertips. Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the glamorous streets of Gstaad, soaking in the romantic ambiance of Paris, or exploring the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, Smiling House makes it easy to immerse yourself in the magic of these cinematic locations. With its prime location and seamless access to world-famous filming spots, the house becomes the perfect base for fans and travelers seeking to experience the beauty of these movie destinations in person.
