Film tourism is a phenomenon in which tourists follow the trail of visiting places that have appeared in movies or TV shows. It has now become one of the most effective marketing tools because it helps  destinations become more known. It attracts the attention of tourists and also adds more market value. In the film industry, this strategy is called ‘Set-Jetting’  to help popularize the locations that are being filmed, with the expectation that tourists from all over the world will follow suit, which will significantly increase economic value.

According to Expedia’s 2024  Travel Trends Report, movies and TV shows streamed through internet platforms inspire tourists by 44 percent, outpacing the influence of social media at just 15 percent.

In 2022, the government issued a proactive policy by exempting foreign actors from personal income tax for 5 years to foreign actors filming in Thailand, which reinforces the film industry to attract more people to participate. in addition The government has also issued a policy to increase the refund rate for movie makers up to 30 percent, resulting in Phuket being the main filming location for many foreign films.

Phuket is famous for its beautiful beaches. It has been the backdrop of many movies in recent years. An example of the series ‘White Lotus‘ released on HBO, which is based on the island. As a result, many hotels have seen an increase in bookings before Season 3 will be released in 2025. Netflix’s top-rated romance series  ‘Mother of the Bride’, filmed at Anantara Layan Phuket and  Anantara Mai Khao Phuket, has also attracted audiences around the world. From offering a luxurious leisure experience and beautiful scenery in the resort.

William HEINEC Founder and Chairman of Minor International, who was a guest on the film, enthused, “Thailand is moving towards a ‘set-jetting’  phenomenon, where tourists travel to the filming locations of their favorite movies, series or TV shows, so we aim to promote Thailand as a hub for cinema, which will strengthen the local economy and tangible benefits for the production team in terms of cost and efficiency.

In addition to making Phuket Island a dream destination for every traveler. It also resulted in an increase in real estate sales. With investors seeing the charm of Phuket through the productions they produce, it’s no surprise that the island is cited as Southeast Asia’s top prime location for buying  a ‘second home’ vacation home, as well as investing in other types of real estate, making Phuket one of the world’s top luxury vacation destinations.

Mr. Micah Tamthai Mr. Micah Tamthai, Chief Operating Officer, Lifestyle & Real Estate, Minor International Public Company Limited, said, “Movie tourism is a key factor driving the value of investment in Phuket. Owning a vacation home in a location that is in the movie will add value to the property. Buyers believe that they are investing in an exclusive and unique property. Properties in reputable locations will be able to generate income from higher rents. In addition, the profit from the sale of the property is likely to be higher due to the increased demand from tourists. and potential buyers.”

For investors looking for real estate that will be part of the trend. ‘Traveling in the footsteps of the movie’ Minor still has many premium residential options to choose from. To strengthen the potential market with high returns and make Phuket a truly tropical paradise island.

One such project is the Kiara Reserve, an exclusive development located in Layan Bay, offering 3- and 4-bedroom villas and condominiums across 46 units, scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. Another notable development is Avadina Hills by Anantara, an ultra-luxury real estate project located on a beachfront plot in the area known as ‘Millionaire’s Mile,’ renowned for its collection of luxury properties highly sought after by millionaires worldwide.

For more information about the opportunity to own Kiara Reserve or to make an appointment for a private visit, please contact the www.kiara-reserve.com  or contact Minor International’s Real Estate Officer 085- 484–8752 or email [email protected].