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Home » News » The Rise of Set Jetting: How Iconic Shows Are Shaping Travel for Gen Z and Millennials

The Rise of Set Jetting: How Iconic Shows Are Shaping Travel for Gen Z and Millennials

May 28, 2026
The Rise of Set Jetting: How Iconic Shows Are Shaping Travel for Gen Z and Millennials

The United States has joined a growing list of countries—including South Korea, the United Kingdom, Japan, and France—in capitalizing on the emerging trend of set jetting tourism. This phenomenon is particularly resonating with Gen Z and Millennials, who are increasingly seeking travel experiences influenced by their favorite Netflix, Amazon, and HBO series, as well as popular anime hits.

In this digital age, governments and tourism boards are proactively targeting this screen-inspired generation through innovative marketing campaigns and entertainment-driven strategies. From the vibrant streets of Seoul to the iconic landmarks of New York and Paris, these cinematic locations are rapidly becoming must-visit destinations on the global travel map. This shift highlights a fresh trend where the culture of streaming is profoundly influencing travel choices and bolstering tourism revenues.

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Downtown city skyline

Why America Leads in Set-Jetting Tourism

The United States maintains its status as a leader in the set-jetting craze due to Hollywood’s undeniable influence, alongside the vast array of streaming platforms that are increasingly shaping Gen Z and Millennial travel aspirations. Research from Expedia Group indicates that young travelers are more likely to pick destinations tied to beloved shows, with locations featured in series like The White Lotus, Stranger Things, and various Marvel franchises seeing a significant uptick in visitors.

Tailored travel experiences in hot spots such as Hawaii (from The White Lotus), New York (known for Gossip Girl and Sex and the City), New Mexico (from Breaking Bad), and Georgia (where Stranger Things unfolds) have become increasingly popular as younger adventurers yearn to recreate their favorite scenes and immerse themselves in the narrative tapestry these shows offer.

Iconic Tower Bridge in London

The United Kingdom: Capitalizing on Streaming Success

The United Kingdom has emerged as a prime set-jetting destination in Europe, thanks to a blend of influential Netflix productions and historical dramas that capture the imagination of young travelers. As the European Travel Commission reports, digital entertainment strongly influences younger tourists’ travel choices.

Famous filming locations in London (such as those from Harry Potter and Bridgerton), Scotland (which showcased Outlander), Birmingham (home of Peaky Blinders), and Yorkshire (featuring Downton Abbey) continue to attract visitors eager to delve into the stories behind their favorite shows. This has also spurred tourism operators to craft unique filming-location tours to cater to the experiential preferences of younger audiences.

Tourists at a traditional Japanese temple

South Korea: The K-Drama Tourism Powerhouse

South Korea has ascended as a set-jetting juggernaut, primarily driven by its K-dramas, K-pop, and a rich cultural narrative that captivates global audiences. Government initiatives are actively promoting famous filming locales like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island, making them key attractions for young travelers enamored with popular series such as Squid Game and Crash Landing on You.

The Korea Tourism Organization harnesses social media platforms to generate buzz around these locations, allowing fans to transcend cultural barriers and experience life as portrayed in their favorite dramas. The influence of platforms like TikTok and Instagram further enhances the visibility of Korean cafés and vibrant street fashion, creating a robust ecosystem of fandom-driven tourism.

Seoul Skyline

Japan: The Anime Trailblazer in Set-Jetting Culture

Japan’s embrace of anime culture is turning into a significant tourism driver, as travelers flock to locations tied to beloved anime series and films. Government campaigns promote these sites as part of a broader strategy to attract the youth demographic fascinated by stories from productions like Your Name and Demon Slayer.

Regions tied to anime lore, backed by the Japan National Tourism Organization, showcase immersive experiences ranging from anime-themed cafes to popular merchandise districts, enhancing visitor engagement and contributing positively to local economies.

Italy and France: New Tourism Trends in Europe

Italy and France are witnessing a resurgence in tourism fueled by the visual storytelling that luxury streaming dramas provide. HBO’s The White Lotus resparked interest in Sicily, while Netflix’s Emily in Paris reshaped perceptions of Parisian allure among younger travelers. According to Real Simple, the appeal of cinematic beauty in destinations propels younger visitors intent on capturing aesthetically pleasing experiences.

Addressing Challenges in the Evolving Set-Jetting Landscape

While set jetting opens exciting avenues for tourism growth, it also raises concerns about sustainability and community impact. Popular destinations like Dubrovnik and Hawaii are grappling with overtourism issues, prompting authorities to seek a balance between economic benefits and preserving local cultures and environments. Innovative solutions are being explored to ensure that the burgeoning set-jetting trend can flourish responsibly.

As this trend shapes the face of global tourism, destinations that align with the cultural touchstones of Gen Z and Millennials will likely continue to thrive. With an unshakeable bond to streaming narratives, the impact of set jetting is poised to grow, inviting millions of travelers to turn fantasy into reality.

Source: The post United States Joins South Korea, United Kingdom, Japan, France and More Nations are Right Now on Right Track Boosting Set Jetting Tourism Economy, Targeting Gen Z and Millennials with Iconic Netflix, Amazon, HBO Web Series and Anime Cult: Here is Another New Trend first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.

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