Set-jetting (traveling through films) in Russian: how movies and TV series set the tourist trend

What is set-jetting (movie travel): How movies and TV series set the travel trend

Set-jetting is a trend in which people purposefully visit places where their favorite movies and TV series were filmed. This is a way to turn the viewing experience into a real journey, following the characters of the films through the streets, squares and natural landscapes.

The term came into use in the late 2000s. But the phenomenon itself existed long before the buzzword appeared: crowds of "Lord of the Rings" fans traveled to New Zealand after the film was released.

Today, set-jetting (traveling through films) is experiencing a real boom. According to statistics, about half of travelers choose a destination inspired by what they saw in a movie or TV series. This is facilitated by the availability of visually appealing content on online platforms and the desire not just to visit a point on the map, but to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a famous story, feeling like a part of it.

Who is suitable for this format

First of all, to real moviegoers and fans of specific franchises, for whom the trip becomes a pilgrimage. Set-jetting (traveling through films) is also interesting for anyone who is looking for a new perspective on a familiar city or wants to discover non-obvious routes suggested by the talent of directors, cameramen and actors.

Russian cities for set-jetting (traveling through films): interesting places where films were shot

We are talking about several ideal destinations in Russia, where you can combine the search for famous movie locations with accommodation in Accor hotels.

Moscow: from mysticism to Futurism

The capital of our country is a real cinematic treasure trove. Here, history and modernity create an endless field for set-jetting (traveling through films). You can walk from the Patriarch's Ponds, which became one of the key locations in the acclaimed film adaptation of The Master and Margarita, to the futuristic towers of Moscow City, against which the events of the disaster series Epidemic unfolded. The contrast between the mystical past and the ultramodern present is the main feature of any Moscow film route.

The ideal base for research will be Novotel Moscow City. The main advantage of this hotel is its location in the heart of the business center. You will literally live inside one of the most popular modern movie sets. After a day spent looking for filming locations for your favorite scenes, you can discuss your impressions over dinner at the MC Traders restaurant.

Saint Petersburg: a film set for the ages

"Petersburg is the most deliberate and abstract city in the world," Dostoevsky wrote, and this quality makes St. Petersburg an eternal film set. An adept of set-jetting (traveling through films) is here to immerse himself in cinematic worlds of different eras.

You will be able to follow the routes of cult heroes: from the gloomy courtyards-wells, where the action of the dilogy "Brother" unfolded, to the grand palace halls, in which scenes of the popular historical series "Catherine" and "Elizabeth" were filmed. The city also serves as a backdrop for blockbuster franchises. In the movie "Major Thunder," Peter transforms into the superhero capital of Russia.

Staying at the SO/St. Petersburg hotel will help you immerse yourself in such a unique atmosphere with comfort. This is not just a place to stay overnight, but an independent art object. The location a stone's throw from St. Isaac's Cathedral and the Hermitage Museum makes the hotel an ideal starting point for exploring the cinematic city. You can end the day with dinner on the summer terrace of the HI-SO TERRACE restaurant, which is open from May to September. Or relax with a drink at the 24-hour MIXO lobby bar, while enjoying the views of the historic center.

Sochi: southern scenery for films of all eras

Recreation in the set-jetting format (traveling through films)— this is not only a walk through the historical centers, but also an opportunity to see the places where your favorite resort and adventure stories unfolded. Sochi has served as an ideal filming location for films and TV series of various genres for decades, from popular classics to modern comedies and detective stories.

Here you can follow the footsteps of the heroes of the cult paintings. The marine station from which Semyon Gorbunkov from the Diamond Hand set off on a cruise. The Arboretum Park, which turned into a workplace for Gena from Cheburashka, Primorsky Embankment and Kurortny Prospekt — these locations became part of the country's cinematic code.

The Swissotel Resort Sochi Camellia hotel is perfect for diving into the atmosphere of southern set-jetting. It is a complex on the Black Sea coast, surrounded by a park with thousands of plants. After a day spent looking for movie locations, you can recuperate in any of the three restaurants. Relax in the spa or in the heated outdoor pool, available to guests all year round. Swissotel Resort Sochi Camellia is a place where the impressions of movie walks are naturally complemented by all the advantages of a seaside resort.

Practical Guide: how to plan a set-jetting tour (movie trips)

Getting inspired by the movie is just the beginning. In order for a movie-style trip to go smoothly and leave vivid impressions, it needs to be properly organized. Follow a simple plan to turn a movie night into not only an exciting, but also a comfortable route.

Step 1: Find the points of attraction

First of all, decide which places you want to see. Where to look for information:

• Websites and applications. Use specialized resources like "Cinema-Theater." or MovieMaps. Don't forget about "Kinopoisk" either: the "Filming locations" section often lists specific locations.
• Social networks and blogs. Search for posts using hashtags like #movie placemark or movie title. Many enthusiasts share detailed reports and precise coordinates.

Distinguish between the concepts of "where the action takes place" and "where it was filmed." The scene can be edited from footage shot in different cities.

Step 2: Build a logical route

Put all the selected locations on the map and group them by geographical proximity. Select the key points. Be prepared for the fact that some objects are located in a closed area: for example, private houses. Also, in reality, the picture may differ from the movie frame.

For each point, set aside time for the road and photos, reserve for a leisurely study and immersion in the atmosphere. Find out what is nearby: interesting cafes, observation decks, parks. This will save the day if access to the desired location is blocked.

Step 3: Think through the little things

What you need to remember to make a full-fledged set-jetting trip:

• Gadgets. Take a portable battery for your smartphone (navigation and photos consume charge), a portable charger for headphones.
• The content. Save screenshots of key scenes or the trailer to your phone in advance. This will help you find the angle more accurately and make the "cinema or reality" photos especially spectacular.

The main thing is to tune in. In set-jetting (traveling through films), it is very important not to mechanically follow the list of locations, but to get emotions and make discoveries.

Step 4: Choose a comfortable hotel

A well—chosen hotel is half the success of any trip, including set-jetting. What to consider when choosing:

• Location. Ideally, the hotel is located in an area with good transport accessibility or in close proximity to several locations. This will save time and effort.
• Atmosphere. A hotel with a design and concept that match the theme of your trip will enhance the overall impression and help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of your favorite movie.
• Infrastructure. Having a convenient lobby, restaurant, or bar where you can discuss what you saw in the evening, plan the next day, or just relax is an important bonus.

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Cinematic Route with Accor

Vacations can be spent not only by the sea, but also in animated movie sets. Set-jetting (traveling through films) is a journey where your cinematic preferences become a guide.

You can discover interesting filming locations all over Russia. From historical centers to modern neighborhoods and picturesque nature, many locations are waiting for you to see them in a new light.

Accor hotels are located in the main movie cities of the country. We offer comfort and an ideal starting point for your routes. Choose a movie, find locations and book a room on our website.