We’ve all done it. We see a place on our TV screens and we simply have to go there! In fact, sometimes it’s the location used in a film that sticks with us longer than the actual movie itself! In the last couple of years holidays inspired by the silver screen have become more popular than ever. So here ‘s my pick of some of the best film-inspired holidays.

Dubai – Mission: Impossible

Once you see the Burj Khalifa with your own eyes, you realise just how impressive Tom Cruise’s Ghost Protocol stunt really is. At a staggering 830m, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, and it’s truly one of the most spectacular sights you’re ever likely to see. Add to this the sandy beaches, fabulous waterparks, international cuisine, shopping and non-stop entertainment, and it’s little wonder why Dubai is known as one of the world’s top luxury destinations.

At 830m the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world

Phi Phi Island, Thailand – The Beach

Thanks to The Beach, the island of Phi Phi is easily one of the most visited places in all of Thailand. The film is about a backpacker who sets out in search of an idyllic beach and with its turquoise blue, crystal waters, the finest white sand imaginable and palm trees galore, Hat Maya ticks all the boxes for the perfect paradise beach.

Hat Maya: the ultimate beach paradiseThe island is so small you can’t stay there, so your best bet is to stay in Phuket and get a ferry out to Phi Phi, which takes roughly 90 minutes (if you’re more adventurous you’ll get there in half that time on a speedboat). Be warned though: far from the deserted beach you see in the movie, Phi Phi’s popularity guarantees it will be packed with tourists and snorkelers, but the jaw dropping beauty of the place still makes it all worth it

Las Vegas – The Hangover

If ever there was a film that epitomised what Vegas is all about, this is it! The Hangover inspired a whole generation of young people to travel to Sin City and embark on the ultimate stag or hen party to remember (or not remember). A trip to Vegas guarantees craziness. Staying up all night; drinking like college students, gambling, flirting, partying round the clock – Vegas is all about excess. It’s the perfect destination to let loose and go wild – after all, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!

Las Vegas: just as crazy as you'd imagine!

Monte Carlo – Never Say Never Again/Goldeneye

The playground of choice for the rich and famous, Monte Carlo is the epitome of luxury: fabulous architecture, exquisite gardens, yachts as big as mansions, and champagne is their national drink (like we said – luxury!) Thanks to James Bond, Monte Carlo also boasts the most famous casino in the world – Casino de Monte-Carlo. Just step foot in the place and you’ll fully agree it deserves its rep.

The world's most famous casino!If you truly want to experience Monte Carlo in all its glory, it’s best to add a few zeros to your typical holiday budget, but it’s not a necessity. Anyone can savour the sensational views and fine gardens and there are numerous cheap cafes and shopping streets for the budget conscious. Even the name Monte Carlo conjures visions of glamour and  grandeur. It’s on everyone’s bucket list for good reason.

New York – Sex and the City, Friends, Seinfield, Gossip Girl, The Sopranos etc.

Ok, so we couldn’t really make this list without including the great NYC. The backdrop to many of our favourite shows (not to mention countless movies), the Big Apple has become so famous that many of its buildings and locations are now iconic: Times Square; Central Park; the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building… I could go on. Growing up, we’ve become so familiar with its streets, its skyline and just the general buzz of the city, that everything from the pretzel cart to the yellow cabs feels cinematic.If you’re a  fan of a particular show there are numerous tours to avail of so whether you want to experience life as a SATC girl or one of the Friends crew, there’s something for people of every taste.

The most iconic skyline in the world!