Dreaming of a spring break adventure but stuck at home?
Trust me, we’ve all been there! Whether it’s a part-time job, or family stuff, or just too many plans, sometimes getting away just isn’t in the cards. Luckily, there’s nothing stopping you from experiencing a summer of epic adventure from the comfort of your own living room. Grab some snacks and settle in–this is going to be a staycation to remember!
The 10 Best Films to Feed Your Wanderlust
1. Wild (2014)
Based on a true story, this movie follows one woman as she treks the 2,645 miles of Pacific Crest Trail. Vast deserts, mountain landscapes, tranquil meadows, and perilous cliffs make for breathtaking scenery. It’s like hiking the entire PCT without all that pesky physical activity.
2. The Endless Summer (1966)
This classic follows some seriously dreamy surfers to Australia, Africa, Hawaii and everywhere inbetween on their quest to find the perfect wave. It’s a little dated, sure, but in the surfing world The Endless Summer still reigns supreme.
3. Craigslist Joe (2012)
This documentary follows one man as he attempts to spend a month living only off the goodness of Craigslist posters for his survival. It’s a unique, feel-good adventure that definitely restored my faith in humanity. Go Joe!
4. The First Grader (2010)
This film, which is based on a true story, follows Kimani Maruge as he enrolls in primary school for the first time at the age of 84. Not only does this film prove that it’s never too late to dream, but it also takes place smack dab in the middle of the Kenyan Serengeti. Let’s be honest- who doesn’t want to go to Africa for an afternoon?
5. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
Don’t watch this one on an empty stomach! This gripping documentary profiles the iconic and mysterious sushi chef Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old master whose 10-seat, $300-a-plate restaurant is legendary among Tokyo foodies. Eating my favorite $4.00 spicy tuna roll will never be the same.
6. 180° South (2010)
This is one “roadtrip” that I’d simultaneously love and hate to be a part of! Inspired by the legendary expedition of Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins, this movie follows Jeff Johnson on his quest to make it to Patagonia not by Ford Econoline Van, but by boat. The eye-candy of South America alone is worth the watch– but I guarantee you’ll get more out of this film than postcard views.
7. Waste Land (2010)
This documentary has a 100% on Rotten Tomatoes (which is fairly close to impossible), and for that reason alone is worth a watch! Filmed over nearly three years, Waste Land follows renowned artist Vik Muniz as he journeys from Brooklyn to his native Brazil and the world’s largest garbage dump, Jardim Gramacho, located on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro. His collaboration with the catadores, or garbage pickers, shows the transformative and therapeutic power of art.
8. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (2013)
I know, I know, this isn’t a film. But Anthony Bourdain’s show takes us across the world and back again, touching down in some of the most culturally diverse and interesting places on earth! Netflix has several of his specials available currently, and every one is a gem.
9. Lion (2016)
You’ll want the tissues nearby for this one–major tearjerker! Another true story, this one of a man who travels to India in search of his birth family guided only by childhood memories. The sights and sounds of India are so vivid, you’d swear you were there too.
10. Happy (2011)
Happy takes viewers on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy, and rounds out or list as a documentary that will please just about anyone. It’s stunning visuals, unique individuals, and overall message are the perfect end to a summer staycation.
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