Experience Disney-Inspired Adventures with iBestTravel
Disney has been captivating the imaginations of children and adults alike for almost 100 years with its tales of brave characters on epic journeys through awe-inspiring landscapes. The iconic favorites have been revived with numerous live-action remakes and sequels, inviting fans to revisit beloved settings like Agrabah, Arendelle, and Atlantica. Make your travel dreams come true with these real-world adventures inspired by classic Disney movies.
See a Modern-Day Circus in the USA – Dumbo
Caged animals are a relic of the past. Experience a different kind of spectacle at a Cirque du Soleil performance. The USA’s most circus-like city, Las Vegas, boasts six different shows; while you won’t see an elephant fly, the aerial stunts and acrobatics are as dazzling as Dumbo himself.
Set-jetter? Tim Burton’s reboot of this heart-wrenching story, starring Danny DeVito and Colin Farrell, is set to premiere in March 2019 – be prepared with tissues.
Experience Arabian Nights in Oman – Aladdin
No magic carpet ride is necessary in Oman – the shimmering stars are a sight to behold from the ground. Stay overnight in a Bedouin camp in Sharqiya Sands or participate in an overnight tour of the Empty Quarter, a vast desert that stretches across Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the UAE; hiring a guide is essential. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at one of the country’s many opulent hotels.
Set-jetter? Will Smith takes on the role of Genie (originally voiced by Robin Williams) – catch the film in cinemas from May 2019.
Witness the Circle of Life in Kenya – The Lion King
From the famous Giraffe Manor to the Masai Mara, spotting Pumba and friends is easy in Kenya. For a luxurious Pride Lands-inspired experience, consider family-friendly tours led by experts, such as Robert Carr-Hartley from The Safari Collection who guided the original film’s animators during their research.
Set-jetter? With Donald Glover, John Oliver, and Beyoncé cast in this live-action remake coming in July 2019, The Lion King lovers are in for a treat.
Have a Trip Worth Fighting For in China – Mulan
Start your adventure in China at the Great Wall, evoking Mulan’s opening scene—minus the invading Huns. Search for dragons in the Forbidden City, which resembles the animation’s colorful Imperial City, before hopping on a high-speed train to Xi’an to see the Terracotta Army, where the likes of Captain Li and Ping (Mulan in disguise) come to life.
Set-jetter? Mulan fans will have to wait until 2020 for the new movie featuring Chinese stars Liu Yifei and Jet Li.
Do You Wanna Build a Snowman? Visit Norway – Frozen 2
Norway is known for its high costs, but if you seek the true Frozen experience, it’s essential to embrace the winter chill. Begin your snowy adventure at the annual Ice Music Festival in Finse, where everything is crafted from glacial ice. For another wintry thrill, head to Tromsø, where you can meet reindeer and witness the Northern Lights. A final stop includes exploring Oslo’s Akershus Fortress, said to have inspired Elsa and Anna’s castle.
Set-jetter? After the first film’s huge success, the Frozen sequel was inevitable – see it on the big screen from November 2019.
Venture Under the Sea in Australia – The Little Mermaid
Although dugongs may lack Ariel’s signature look, they are graceful and beautiful creatures. Dive into Ningaloo Marine Park on Australia’s west coast to spot these gentle sea cows, alongside manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, and turtles. Once you’ve had your fill of underwater adventure, enjoy Exmouth and Coral Bay beaches.
Set-jetter? Ariel and friends will soon be back in the spotlight, with a release date yet to be announced. However, this upcoming film is sure to make a splash.
Enjoy a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Day in the UK – Mary Poppins
Looking for a jolly holiday? While chimney sweeps may be rare in London, you can still explore iconic sites like St Paul’s Cathedral (we recommend against feeding the birds) or take in panoramic views from the Sky Garden, where Mr Banks held his job. Conclude your day with classic sweets from Hardy’s Sweet Shop on Ludgate Hill, known for its nostalgic charm.
Set-jetter? Mary Poppins Returns, featuring Emily Blunt and Lin Manuel Miranda (of Hamilton fame), premiered in late 2018.
Forget About Your Worries and Strife in India – The Jungle Book
Channel your inner Mowgli and explore the wilds of India. Wildlife enthusiasts should visit Madhya Pradesh, home to tiger reserves like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench, which protect the nation’s endangered tiger population. If you wish to spot Baloo, King Louie, and Kaa, the region is also home to sloth bears, pythons, grey langurs, and macaques, alongside the elusive leopard; for a higher chance of finding a black panther, check India’s southern parks.
Set-jetter? The Jungle Book (2016) was among the first classic Disney films recreated with live action and CGI and is available for fans to revisit.
Ponder a Tale as Old as Time in France – Beauty and the Beast
Say bonjour to Belle’s enchanting town in Alsace, a region in France bordering Switzerland and Germany. Towns like Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé inspired animators with their narrow, cobbled streets and medieval charm. Stroll through exquisite alleys while enjoying baguettes and browsing for unique finds—or visit nearby châteaux that resemble the Beast’s grand residence.
Set-jetter? Emma Watson’s Disney debut was released in 2017. Many Disney titles will be available to view via new streaming services launching in late 2019.
