By Fiona James
MSN NZ Travel writer
Sometimes a movie puts the destination on the map but often it's the destination that makes the movie.
Here are a few locations that'll get your imagination running.
1. Twilight: New Moon — Volterra, Italy
Volterra is the new Verona. Both set the scene for a famous love story, but in Volterra's case, the story has fangs. Once a relatively unknown destination, this ancient Etruscan town now plays host to hoards of the bloodthirsty.
The movie was actually filmed in nearby Montepulciano, but fans continue to flock to the town named in the story — perhaps in the hope Edward might be spotted walking the cobbled laneways by night.
Aside from chance vampire sightings, Volterra is an intriguing city with much to see, including a Roman theatre, a 12th-century cathedral, and the Palazzo dei Priori.
2. Scarface — Miami
Whether you've been to Miami or not, the neon lights, swaying palms, and art deco buildings of Ocean Drive are unmistakable, possibly because of Scarface.
While much of the movie was filmed outside Miami, Ocean Drive is definitely visible. Try visiting the Sun Ray apartments at 728 Ocean Drive (now a Johnny Rockets restaurant) where the famous chainsaw scene occurred.
Also hang poolside at the Fontainebleau hotel, where Tony and Manny traded "pick-up" tactics. It's a great place to practise your skills.
3. The Beach — Ko Phi Phi Leh, Thailand
The Beach drew serious attention to the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand. The movie was shot in the National Park of Phi Phi Lei, and could there be a better paradise? If you've seen The Beach you'll know the pristine beach and dramatic cliffs that make up the landscape.
Phi Phi Leh is uninhabited but you can stay on its sister island, Phi Phi Don. Take note — since the release of The Beach, this is probably a road more travelled.
5. The Lord of the Rings trilogy — New Zealand
Move over Australia! Ever since The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring was released, New Zealand has been the "it" destination of the Southern Hemisphere.
Try taking a tour out of Christchurch to the magical site of "Edoras" or perhaps visit "Hobbiton" on the North Island. These sites have been restored to their natural states but the landscape is certainly recognisable.
Thanks to the Lord of the Rings, everyone in the world wants to know about New Zealand.
6. Jurassic Park — Hawaii
Just looking at the Hawaiian jungle, you could swear there were dinosaurs in there. A helicopter ride over the Manawaiopuna Falls is a must. You can also visit the site of the Jurassic Park gate on Kauai.
Wherever you choose to tread, go carefully and keep your eyes peeled. You never know what you might encounter.
7. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade — Petra, Jordan
This mind-blowing destination makes for some impressive cinematography. Petra is an ancient city carved out of red sandstone by an ancient Arabic people called the Nabataeans. It's now one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.
Petra is the site of the "Canyon of the Crescent Moon." The movie features shots of the Siq which is the narrow passage leading into Petra, as well as the famous "Treasury."
Weather varies according to the months but be prepared for cold nights, whatever the season. If travelling in summer, cover up and keep it light, as the weather can be scorching. Anyone for a cup of water?
