Create a Cinematic Vacation

There are few things in life that make my soul as hopeful and happy as romance and travel. The two go hand and hand for me, even if I'm traveling solo. I haven't been on a plane in over a year, which may be the longest stretch of time without leaving my immediate surroundings in my adult life. I haven't been out of America since 2009.

To say that I am getting a nasty case of the travel bug is a giant understatement. I try to take an international trip at least every 5 years. If I had the means, I'd go as often as life permitted. In these uncertain times, there's no telling when my next travel opportunity might present itself, so I've found a creative way to scratch that itch by watching movies set in the locations I've been dying to visit.

If you find yourself home bound with a case of the travel blues, I'd encourage you to check out the fine recommendations at Decider.com. This site is a great tool to help you search for movies or shows that might help satiate your unrelenting urge to hop on a jet plane. If you're lacking the means or freedom to go on your dream vacation, try searching for a movie filmed on location in your desired destination.

My dream destination happens to be Ireland, and my favorite type of movie happens to be a love story. Allow me to take you on a cinematic tour of the Emerald Isle through a few of my favorite romantic movies filmed in Ireland. These films show the beautiful countryside, bustling towns as well as a glimpse into the easy going yet sarcastic nature of the Irish people.

If you enjoy a lighthearted romantic comedy and love a movie that takes you on a zany adventure through a foreign land, Leap Year is a perfect choice. It is the story of an American girl who desperately wants to be engaged to her boyfriend, who is dragging his feet in this endeavor. She sets off on a mission to go after her dream when she is informed of the Irish custom where women can propose to their beloved once every four year on Leap day. This film is a great laugh and has many beautiful scenes filmed throughout the Emerald Isle. The characters are so relatable, you nearly feel like you're there along side them.

If you're in need of movie that gives you ALL the feels from a good cry to a heartwarming ending, I would recommend, PS I Love you. This movie checks all my boxes, and the book is great as well. It is filmed in various locales, but there are many great scenes that show you Ireland's rolling green hills and unique pub culture. Again, the cast is just amazing and the film pulls you in almost as if you were there yourself. Grab a box of tissues and be prepared to let out a laugh at the most surprising moments. This movie is almost as good as boarding a plane to visit the land of the lucky Irish in the flesh. If you love Ireland and need to get in touch with the entire spectrum of human emotion, this movies is your pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

If musicals are your thing, which I digress aren't really my favorite genre of film, the movie Once might be right up your alley. The scenery alone is enough to keep my eyes glued to the screen, plus, it's also a love story. This modern day musical is set in Ireland's capital and gives you a picturesque peek into life in the bustling city of Dublin. Filmed in 2007 on a very low budget, this film does not disappoint even the harshest critics of musicals (such as myself). Once is a critically acclaimed film that won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Foreign Film. The street scenes are so vibrant and lively that they transport you right into the city center.

There are countless films I could recommend that showcase Ireland's majestic beauty, but Ireland may not be at the top of your travel bucket list. Wherever you might be dreaming about visiting, head over to Decider.com to search for movies or shows filmed in your dream location. I'm sure they will have plenty of amazing films to choose from that fit your style. I know Romance isn't everyone's favorite, but there are plenty of genres to explore that are sure to tickle your fancy as you create your perfect cinematic vacation.

Until next time, dear readers, I will say Slan (goodbye in the tongue of the Irish) and adh mor (good luck). If you enjoyed this article you can follow me on twitter @MissWendy1980 . If you know someone who is dying to hop across the pond, share this article with a friend and don't forget to share the love by clicking the little heart at the end. In the meantime, be kind to yourself and one another.