Do you swear allegiance to the King in the North or are you a fighter for the Lion’s legacy? Here are the places you should visit in the non-Westeros world, based on your Game of Thrones House loyalty:
If your heart lies with the Starks, Scotland is your next ultimate destination. Adorned with rolling green hills, rugged mountains and unspoilt lochs, the jaw-dropping Scottish landscape reflects the harsh beauty of the North. In addition to the beautiful wilderness, Scotland is enriched with history and culture; old castles reign historical lands, the traditional Scots Gaelic tongue continues to thrive and elegant shrills of bagpipes fill the air. For those of you who deeply believe Winter is Coming, make sure Scotland is your next journey abroad.
Is your skin soaked by the Dornish sun? Then you’ll be determined to visit Seville. If you wish to feel like Dornish royalty, take a midday stroll through Plaza de España or the beautiful gardens of the Alcázar of Seville; this was the filming location of the Water Gardens – House Martell’s private estate. This picturesque city is notable for its gorgeous historic architecture, hot, sunny climate and Spanish charm. Any true Martell would add Seville to the top of their travel bucket-list.
As the current ruler of the Seven Kingdoms, your devotion to House Lannister shall send you to Dubrovnik, Croatia. This spectacular, seaport city is the political heart of Westeros, having been the major film set for King’s Landing. Dubrovnik is a vibrant Mediterranean getaway for anyone seeking warm sunshine, shimmering blue waters, an ancient atmosphere and dazzling Croatian scenery. If Queen Cersei allows it, perhaps you could sail along the Dalmatian coast or indulge in seafood cuisine? House Lannister may be under constant threat by its enemies, but there’s nothing wrong with pulling a Tyrion and treating yourself. In his wise, witty words, “everything’s better with some wine in the belly.”
Are you a sturdy, sea-bred Ironborn? It’s time you were sailing (or flying) off to Norway; known for its majestic fjords, cold weather and deep surrounding seas, this Scandinavian country is a natural spectacle. The occasional stormy waters and jagged mountains of Norway’s Lofoten Islands would steal the heart of any Greyjoy. Norwegian history is reigned by the legendary Vikings, warriors who once dominated Scandinavia and invaded foreign lands with brute force. There is no doubt that these fierce Norse seafarers were the real-life equivalents of Iron Islanders, so unleash your inner Ironborn and set off for Norway now!
If your heart resembles a golden rose, it shall take you to none other than France itself. The luxurious French countryside blooms with a beauty only House Tyrell could truly appreciate, and the abbey of Le Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy exhibits a grandeur worthy of Highgarden status. Indulge in some Beaujolais wine or explore Bordeaux in-depth; from rolling vineyards to majestic cities, France is undeniably the Reach in the eyes of those pledging loyalty to the Tyrells.
Do you pledge yourself whole-heartedly to the crowned, black stag? Then it’s time to visit Ireland; a land shaped by rocky sea cliffs and dominated by jagged, emerald terrain. This glorious landscape is host to castle ruins, grand mountains and stormy seas, all reminiscent of the Baratheon homeland – the Stormlands. Ireland is fuelled by a festive culture of cuisine, performing arts, literature and folklore worthy to be experienced first-hand; sip a pint of Guinness, hike the Wicklow Mountains or try your luck at traditional Irish dancing. If you proudly carry the Baratheon Sigil, make Ireland your next stop.
Those with fire coursing through their veins will know that whilst Old Valyria may be destroyed, Targaryens will feel right at home in New Zealand. A landscape fit for dragons, New Zealand is home to an array of mountain ranges, volcanoes, hot springs and lakes. You could touch the sky at Tongariro Alpine Crossing, cruise through Milford Sound or learn about indigenous Maori culture in Rotorua. Targaryens aren’t known to be thrill-seekers (except if you count riding dragons), however you may be tempted by the countless adventure activities on offer like bungee-jumping or giant canyon swings. Mix fire with adrenaline and fly Drogon to New Zealand for your next getaway.
Did you take an oath and renounce all allegiances to join your sworn brothers at the Night’s Watch? Then there’s no doubt that you’ll be soon wanting to head to Iceland. Various scenes from beyond the Wall were shot across the Icelandic landscape, including Svínafellsjökull Glacier, Grjótagjá and Stakkholtsgjá Canyon. This Nordic island country is also considered to be one of the best and safest countries in the world to live, so that means you probably won’t be finding any White Walkers around. It’s time to temporarily relieve yourself of Night’s Watch duty and plan your Icelandic escape.
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