Spectacular Hollywood blockbuster locations

To celebrate some of the most highly-acclaimed films of recent times, we have put together a list of spectacular locations closely linked to Hollywood blockbusters.

By Bob Atkinson

Paris

The setting for Les Miserables. The successful stage musical has been adapted to film and now the city is seen as part of the 1832 June Rebellion on screen. Paris has been featured in many films over the years, such as Hugo and Midnight in Paris as well as classics such as The Day of the Jackal and Moulin Rouges.

Easy to reach for short breaks from all over the UK, it’s an excellent destination for art, food, architecture and café culture. Plus, of course, some shopping in the fashionable streets of couture and ready-to-wear fashion houses.
Washington DC

The setting for smash hit Lincoln. The city has been the setting for many films over the years and the locations of the White House, Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument are very familiar to us from both TV and film.

As an alternative to New York, Washington scores high with its landmark locations and museums. Arlington Cemetery, with the John F Kennedy eternal flame and its pristine lawns and drives, is a sobering place to visit, as are the many memorials to the dead from war and conflict across the city centre. Or pop into the Smithsonian, FBI Museum or National Mint for excellent displays and lots to see and do.
Hawaii

The Life of Pi was shot extensively in the Pacific Islands. While you are unlikely to see any tigers on a visit to the islands, those who love their natural history and locations will love the volcanic landscapes and dramatic scenery.

You can find tropical deserted beaches, forests for hiking and biking as well as surf to ride those big waves. It’s easy to get away from everyone in a quiet hidden part of one of Lanai, or to the glitz and glam of Waikiki on Oahu. Alternatively, take a helicopter trip to view the scenery from on high or a boat on the ocean for whale and bird watching around the coast. Diving is also spectacular in this region.
Istanbul

Istanbul was the setting for the incredible opening scenes of the 23rd Bond movie, Skyfall.

While we don’t recommend racing across the rooftops of the bazaars on a motorcycle like Daniel Craig, the shopping down below in the many avenues of shops and stalls is an exciting experience on a city break.

When you have spent up, head to the famous Blue Mosque and the nearby Topkapi palace for culture and history, followed by a trip up the Galata Tower for views from European Istanbul to the Asian side, across the mighty Bosphorous.
Los Angeles

The hub of the American film industry is located in the west coast city.

It’s a great place to indulge in star-spotting on a bus tour around the homes of the famous. Tick off your favourites on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and have your photo taken next to your idol’s star. Catch a glimpse of the Hollywood sign towering over the city and tour the Film Studios such as Universal. Take a trip down Hollywood Boulevard to see Graumans Chinese Theatre and the current location of the Oscars ceremony, the Dolby theatre.

Add in pacific beaches, theme parks galore and art and shopping venues and you can easily fill a week without the need to leave the city. All of which can be enjoyed in the warm west coast sun year round.

About Bob Atkinson
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