Turning TV Into Reality
Welcome to the Second Edition of Turning Into Reality.
I hope you enjoyed the first installment in the series where we talked about movies! In case you missed it, make sure to check it out here before or after this one.
Like last time, you’ll find a short synopsis and walk-through of how you can turn these TV shows into reality during your next trip, so let’s dive right in!
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This Netflix Original is a historical drama television series about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. From her early years on the throne to the later years that shaped the second half of the 20th century. One fun fact about this show is that they age the cast every few years.
Take a tour of Kensington Palace (currently the residence of Will & Kate) which unveils a palace of secret stories and public lives. A current exhibit features rare and exquisite dresses from HM Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, and Diana Princess of Wales. Afterward, head to Buckingham Palace to tour the staterooms and gardens.
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In every episode, we join Phillip Rosenthal as he embarks on a culinary journey through the city showcased in that particular episode. Along the way, he shines a spotlight on local charities and non-profit organizations making a positive impact in the area. Featured in Season One, Episode Four is Lisbon, the capital of Portugal (currently high on my must-see list!)
The city features a hilly landscape and a bridge that reminds you of the Golden Gate Bridge. Take a private tour of the city with spots including the Castle of São Jorge, Rossio Square, and Lisbon Cathedral. Alternatively, take a food tour as the city is known for its Mediterranean food to Indian favorites. For lunch, feast your eyes and heart at the Time Out Market. While Port wine is a signature, end your meal with another local specialty, the Ginjinha. Ginja is a liqueur made with sour cherries, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
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The show (and books- I highly recommend) that brought me to Scotland in the first place. An English combat nurse from 1945 is mysteriously swept back in time to 1743. It follows the story of Claire Randall, who is thrown into an unknown world in which her life is threatened.
Stay a few days in the lovely town of Inverness, the base of the Highlands. Here you can hunt for filming locations like Old High Church and Leakey’s Bookshop (a beauty!) From there, take a trip out to Clava Cairns, whose stones are said to be the inspiration for Craigh na Dun in the series. Afterward, a short distance away is Culloden Field, where you can tour the museum and grounds. Fans of the show will know the significance of visiting this location! I loved that one side of the museum features the British timeline of events while the other focuses on the Jacobites. Finish with an evening by Glen Affric and your favorite dram of whisky.
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Although the series has ended, I decided to include it with the release of Downtown Abbey: A New Era. The show follows the lives of the Crawleys, an English aristocratic family, and their domestic servants living in the post-Edwardian age. Events depict news of the time such as the sinking of the Titanic, the First World War, and the Spanish influenza pandemic.
Become part of a small group that leaves central London for the charming Oxfordshire Village better known as Downton Village. Here you will tour filming locations such as Downton Hospital, the village pub, the former home of Matthew Crawley, and the local church. Having toured the village, travel to Highclere Castle, which was used as the main set for Downton Abbey. Learn about the history of this 300+-year-old castle and life above and below the stairs.
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I’m not even sure I need to include this one, as everyone I personally know was obsessed with the show.
Synopsis: “Years after a rebellion spurred by a stolen bride-to-be and the blind ambitions of a mad King, Robert of the house Baratheon sits on the much desired Iron Throne. In the mythical land of Westeros, nine noble families fight for every inch of control and every drop of power.” - Gregory Tobin
While they filmed in various countries including Spain, Croatia, Morocco, Malta, and Scotland, we will focus on Northern Ireland. You may choose to visit Cushendun Cave, where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow assassin, and Ballintoy Harbor, where Theon Greyjoy returned to Pyke Harbor. You may also want to consider a visit to Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Larrybane where Renly swears to Lady Stark that he will avenge Ned's death but instead meets his death. If opting for the latter, take the short drive to The Dark Hedges, where Arya Stark made her escape down The Kings Road.
TV has been shaping our views of countries for decades, and these five series featured are just the start of stories to be told and places to go. Where do you want to head now?
I’m off to continue my research on Portugal- stay tuned for our last (planned) portion of the series where we will turn Disney Into Reality.
Happy Travels, Hannah
P.S. Did this inspire your Wanderlust? Head to the Book Now section for a 1:1 consultation about your next trip!
