Every  travel blogger has a top travel movie list. Because like travel narratives, films inspire and motivate. They bring to life travel in a way many other mediums can’t. This list is entirely my opinion obviously but if you disagree YOU’RE WRONG!!!!! Now sit back and enjoy the awesomeness.

·         Eurotrip

This movie is so underrated. One of my favorite comedies ever. What makes it so great is they play up the stereotypes of European backpacking in a way that’s fun. Although largely inaccurate, it holds some truths although over exaggerated.  Cameos from Matt Damon as a girlfriend stealing rocker, Lucy Lawless as a Dutch Dominatrix, and Vinnie Jones as a soccer hooligan (fun fact: Vinnie played pro for Chelsea and several other clubs) really send this movie over the top for me.

·         Darjeeling Limited

The symbolism in this movie is masterful. Using India as a backdrop, three estranged brothers travel India by rail. Hilarity and drama ensues. As a watcher, you cringe at some of the heart wrenching scenes. Look out for “The Funeral” scene. Great direction and performances.

·        Sisterhood of the traveling pants

I’ll admit it. In my eyes, America Ferrera (except get married. HEARTBROKEN) can do NO WRONG. This movie is my guilty pleasure. Although it’s a bit “middle-classy” for me I find it kind of relatable. Some things tie us together as people. In an ever connected world you sometimes need something tangible. This film shows the power of travel and friendship.

·         Lost in Translation

Oh Tokyo. How I yearn for thee. Seeing one of my favorite cities used as a backdrop to the comedy genius that is Bill Murray made this film. And this was Scarlett Johansson before she was Scarlett Johansson. Watching not only the cultural differences (Japanese vs American) but the generational ones make for a really fun movie. I actually found the representation of Tokyo to be quite accurate and respectful. This really is one of Murrays better performances.

·         The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Hands down, the most BEAUTIFUL film I’ve seen in a long time. The story is so well written and acted that you can’t help being drawn in. Ben Stiller absorbs the fears, expectations, and regrets of most 9-5ers in the U.S. This film is not only a commentary on the benefit of travel to personal growth, but to the destructive nature of our workaholic culture. I also have to give a shout out to Sean Penn who plays a small but memorable part in this film. MUST SEE in HD.

·         Hidalgo

A lot of people may have missed this one. It’s the semi trueish story of Frank Hopkins. An American horse distance rider and participant in a 3,000 mile race across the Gulf of Syria. Regardless if the story is true or not, the film is spectacular. It’s depiction of the Arabs in the late 1800’s is well done. Not necessarily accurate from my understanding but not  disrespectful. The movie combines a decent narrative with lots of cool action scenes and gorgeous horses.

·         Anything Bollywood 

As a child I would always wake up very early on Sunday mornings. The only thing on were televangelist and Bollywood films in black and white. I was fascinated by the different language, dancing, and places. This was my first real introduction to the world outside of the U.S. It’s also produced my first celebrity crush.

 So what are your favorite travel films?

In Bruges, Life of Pi, Pricilla Queen of the Desert, Amelie,