Oscar Fever: destinations on film
I will happily admit to a minor obsession with visiting film locations – particularly the exotic beach ones. This year location was a central character in many of the Oscar-winning films so here is a round-up of the hottest destinations for your itinerary.
New Orleans: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
This vibrant artistic city is getting back on its feet after Hurricane Katrina. Even when I visited in mid-2006 the party had started again. You’ve just missed Mardi Gras but it will be back again on the 16th February 2010. Head to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter for jazz, bars and restaurants and if you’re travelling with the family get to Audubon Zoo, it’s one of the best in the US and even has white tigers.
Mumbai: Slumdog Millionaire
Start among the crowds at Gateway of India, appreciate your washing machine with a visit to Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat (the huge open air laundry) and then wander the streets taking in the sights and smells. When that gets too much head for the National Park which boasts ancient Buddhist caves. Of course before you leave you’ll need to take in a Bollywood film too.
San Francisco: Milk
I’ve seen San Francisco in winter and summer and enjoyed it every time. It has a fantastic art scene, great architecture and delicious seafood chowder. Head to Fisherman’s Wharf – everyone does, cycle across The Golden Gate Bridge, sip tea in the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park, join the throng in Chinatown and finish with a day at the infamous prison of Alcatraz.
Barcelona, Vicky Christina Barcelona
Aim to stay as close to Las Ramblas as possible which is part of the Barri Gòtic (Gothic quarter). This beautiful district is not only the largest medieval area in Europe, it’s also the centre for restaurants, bars and entertainment. If you can drag yourself away from the tapas head to The Picasso Museum, The Magic Fountain of Montjuic and stroll along the seafront promenade.
Gotham City, The Dark Knight
Gotham City doesn’t usually make the cut for top travel destinations due to its high crime rate. The safest way to see this thrilling city is to pick up a Batman comic.
I’ve been to San Francisco in summer and enjoyed it very much. I also enjoy the art scene, architecture and food. Not so much on the seafood chowder. I also visited the Fisherman’s Wharf, but during the night. Anyway, I also enjoy it very much.
I do not have the opportuity to cross The Golden Gate Bridge, but I did have a view from the plane. Anyway, the sight from above is good enough for me.
I have been to san francisco and enjoyed the oprea and the warf areas, our family did a group tour of the old prison alkatraz and it was possible one of the most depressing places i have ever been but i do feel like i know a little more about crime and punishment in the 1920′s overall we loved the city by the bay.