Travel documentaries can transport you to far-off lands from the comfort of your couch. It’s like getting a taste of adventure without the jet lag. But, with so many options out there, it’s tough to know which ones are actually worth watching. I’ve curated a list of five documentaries that not only offer stunning visuals but also provide genuine insights into different cultures and ways of life.
Here’s a quick look at the travel documentaries we’ll be exploring:
- Dark Tourist: Explores the world of unconventional and often dangerous tourism.
- Motorcycle Diaries: Chronicles Che Guevara’s transformative journey across South America.
- Long Way Round: Follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman’s motorcycle trip around the world.
- Expedition Happiness: A couple converts a school bus into a mobile home and travels from Alaska to Mexico.
- Tales by Light: Showcases the adventures and techniques of professional photographers around the globe.
Top 5 Best Documentaries About Travel
1. Dark Tourist
Dark Tourist is a Netflix series hosted by David Farrier, taking you to the world’s most unusual and sometimes dangerous tourist destinations. From nuclear tourism in Japan to voodoo in Benin, this series offers a unique perspective on travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Offers a unique and unconventional view of travel.
- ✅ David Farrier’s quirky personality makes it engaging.
- ✅ Exposes you to cultures and experiences you wouldn’t normally see.
Cons:
- ❌ Some may find the subject matter disturbing or insensitive.
- ❌ Relies heavily on shock value.
- ❌ Can feel exploitative at times.
Verdict: If you’re looking for something different and aren’t easily offended, Dark Tourist is a fascinating, albeit unsettling, watch.
2. Motorcycle Diaries
Motorcycle Diaries is a biographical film based on the journals of Ernesto “Che” Guevara and Alberto Granado. It tells the story of their motorcycle journey across South America, which ultimately shaped Guevara’s revolutionary ideals.
Pros:
- ✅ Beautifully shot, capturing the landscapes of South America.
- ✅ Offers a historical and cultural perspective.
- ✅ Inspiring story of self-discovery and social awareness.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slow-paced for some viewers.
- ❌ Focuses more on character development than pure travel.
- ❌ Requires some background knowledge of South American history to fully appreciate.
Verdict: A must-watch for anyone interested in history, culture, and the transformative power of travel. It’s a bit more serious but definitely worth the time.
3. Long Way Round
Long Way Round documents the epic motorcycle journey of actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they travel from London to New York City, via Europe and Asia. It’s a raw and honest look at the challenges and triumphs of long-distance travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Features stunning visuals and diverse landscapes.
- ✅ Provides a realistic portrayal of the challenges of long-distance motorcycle travel.
- ✅ The camaraderie between Ewan and Charley is entertaining and heartwarming.
Cons:
- ❌ Some may find the pace slow at times.
- ❌ Requires some interest in motorcycles to fully appreciate.
- ❌ Occasional mechanical issues can become repetitive.
Verdict: If you’re a fan of motorcycle adventures or just enjoy watching friends tackle a challenging journey, Long Way Round is a great choice. I’ve watched it twice!
4. Expedition Happiness
Expedition Happiness follows the journey of a German couple who convert a school bus into a mobile home and travel from Alaska to Mexico. The documentary explores their minimalist lifestyle and the challenges of living on the road.
Pros:
- ✅ Inspiring look at alternative living and minimalism.
- ✅ Beautifully filmed, showcasing the natural beauty of North America.
- ✅ Offers practical tips for converting a bus into a home.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a bit self-indulgent at times.
- ❌ Some may find their lifestyle unrealistic or unattainable.
- ❌ Focuses more on the couple’s personal journey than broader cultural experiences.
Verdict: If you’re dreaming of a simpler life on the road, Expedition Happiness will fuel your wanderlust. Just be prepared for some serious lifestyle envy!
5. Tales by Light
Tales by Light is a Netflix series that follows professional photographers as they travel the world, capturing stunning images and sharing their unique perspectives. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the art of photography and the challenges of capturing the perfect shot.
Pros:
- ✅ Visually stunning, showcasing incredible photography.
- ✅ Offers insights into different cultures and environments.
- ✅ Inspiring for aspiring photographers.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit technical for those not interested in photography.
- ❌ Focuses more on the photographers than the destinations themselves.
- ❌ Episodes can be uneven in quality.
Verdict: If you appreciate beautiful photography and want to learn about the art behind it, Tales by Light is a visually stunning and informative series.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right travel documentary can be tricky. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your Interests: Are you interested in adventure, culture, history, or nature? Choose documentaries that align with your passions.
- The Filmmaker’s Approach: Do you prefer a documentary that is objective and informative, or one that is more personal and subjective?
- Reviews and Ratings: Check out reviews and ratings on sites like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes to get an idea of the documentary’s quality.
- Availability: Consider where you can watch the documentary. Is it available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or another streaming service?
- Length: Do you prefer a short film or a multi-part series? Make sure the length fits your viewing habits.
FAQs
Q: What makes a good travel documentary?
A: A good travel documentary combines stunning visuals, insightful storytelling, and a genuine connection to the cultures and people it portrays.
Q: Are travel documentaries educational?
A: Yes, many travel documentaries offer valuable insights into different cultures, histories, and ways of life.
Q: Where can I find travel documentaries?
A: Travel documentaries are available on streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, as well as on DVD and Blu-ray.
Q: Which travel documentary is best for families?
A: Long Way Round and Expedition Happiness are generally family-friendly options, although parents should always preview content to ensure it’s appropriate for their children.
Q: Can travel documentaries inspire me to travel?
A: Absolutely! Travel documentaries can ignite your wanderlust and inspire you to explore new destinations and cultures.
Conclusion
Travel documentaries are a fantastic way to experience the world from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re interested in adventure, culture, or simply stunning visuals, there’s a travel documentary out there for you. I hope this list helps you discover your next favorite film. Happy watching!
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