Southeast Asia has long captivated Hollywood's imagination with its cultural richness and exotic settings. From emerald bays to ancient temples, the region's most captivating locations have become the backdrop for countless international productions. Ready to step into scenes from your favourite films and start your set-jetting experience?
Let's explore these cinematic destinations that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Thailand
The set-jetting experience begins in Bangkok, where 'The Hangover II' showcased the city's vibrant energy and unique character. From the nightlife to its people, Bangkok is diverse in what it offers. However, it's the southern shores that have truly captured international attention. From Leonardo DiCaprio's 'The Beach' that transformed Maya Bay into a global sensation, to James Bond's 'The Man with the Golden Gun' featuring Phang Nga Bay's dramatic limestone cliffs, these tropical gems continue to enchant both filmmakers and travellers alike.
Recently, the global spotlight has turned towards Thailand's luxury resorts and exclusive islands with Netflix’s Mother of the Bride and HBO's critically acclaimed The White Lotus choosing the Southern part of Thailand for their Season 3's fictional White Lotus resort after Hawaii and Italy.
For those seeking their own version of The White Lotus, Anantara's collection of luxury resorts spans the region's most beautiful locations. In Koh Samui, the official confirmed film location, Anantara Bophut Resort offers a perfect blend of traditional Thai architecture with Lotus ponds, while Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort provides a more secluded escape amongst swaying coconut palms.
In Phuket, Anantara Mai Khao Villas presents an exclusive retreat with private pool villas overlooking the Andaman Sea, with the hidden gem of Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas offers a secluded haven where jungle-clad hills meet powdery beaches.
Vietnam
The set-jetting continues to Vietnam, where Ha Long Bay cast its spell on Hollywood in Kong: Skull Island, its ancient limestone peaks and mist-wrapped waters creating nature's most dramatic stage. Inland, Ninh Binh weaves its own magic with meandering rivers disappearing into mysterious caves. Then there's Hoi An, where silk lanterns cast their glow over centuries-old streets, creating scenes that feel lifted from a period film.
Immerse yourself in these cinematic settings at Anantara Hoi An Resort, a riverside haven along the historic Thu Bon River. Venture further to find Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, where privacy meets coastal beauty. For something truly unique, Anantara Mui Ne Resort offers a different kind of drama - here, coastal breezes shape golden dunes that roll down to meet the sea.
Malaysia
Even in Malaysia, the set-jetting trail continues, from the iconic Petronas Towers where Catherine Zeta-Jones and Sean Connery brought their thrilling heists to life in 'Entrapment', to the dramatic landscapes that set the stage for Netflix's 'Marco Polo'. Along this storied coastline lies Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. Here on the southeastern shore, each day brings gentle waves and sunsets that no film could do justice.
Singapore
Singapore's meteoric rise to cinematic fame reached its pinnacle with 'Crazy Rich Asians', turning the city-state into a prime set-jetting destination with the perfect blend of old and new.
The film's iconic scenes brought global attention to landmarks like, Gardens by the Bay with its futuristic-looking Supertree Grove and misty Cloud Forest, while the historic CHIJMES steals the spotlight as an enchanting wedding venue adorned with a flower-lined water aisle, making it one of the movie’s most memorable scene. Snapshots on the city’s most famous landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands and its infinity pool are shown in many of the movie's montages symbolising Asia’s wealth and luxury.
Cambodia
The set-jetting adventure continues as you channel your inner Lara Croft at the temples of Angkor Wat, made famous by Tomb Raider. These ancient ruins offer endless opportunities for your own action-packed photoshoots amongst centuries-old stone carvings and mysterious doorways, where massive tree roots embrace ancient stones at the iconic Ta Prohm temple.
For an authentic experience worthy of the silver screen, Anantara Angkor Resort provides an ideal retreat after your temple adventures, offering a boutique sanctuary that captures the essence of Khmer culture while providing contemporary luxury just minutes from these legendary filming locations.
Indonesia
Bali's spiritual essence and natural beauty, immortalised in 'Eat, Pray, Love', continues to enchant set-jetting enthusiasts especially those seeking their own transformative journey. From the emerald rice terraces to cultural temples, these islands offer an iconic backdrop for countless stories of self-discovery, making them an essential destination on any Southeast Asian set jetting adventure.
Find your own slice of paradise at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort in the cultural heart of the island or embrace dramatic ocean views at Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort.
Now with all these Southeast Asia's film locations in mind, it's time to start planning your next trip with you as the main character. After all, every traveller deserves to be the star of their own story.
