Beautiful Destinations
Lets Go - Venice
updated
This enchanting city has buzzing beaches with crystal-clear waters, music-filled streets, world-class restaurants, and beautiful spots where you can catch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer. 🌅
It's spectacular, it's Brasil! 💚
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Director and editor | Alexis Lefrene | instagram.com/alexislefrene
Second shooter and underwater | Brandon Verdura | instagram.com/brandonverdura
Producer | Hannia Zavala | instagram.com/hanniazavala
Marketing Director | Felipe Pires | instagram.com/felipe.apires
Head of Global Production | Michael Anderson | instagram.com/manderson_1616
Talent:
| Cecília Senhorinha | instagram.com/ceciliasenhorinha
| Lucas Nideck | instagram.com/lucasnideck
| Denner Cezar | instagram.com/dennerczr
| Paula Rodrigues | instagram.com/pl.rodrigues
| Izabelli Botelho | instagram.com/bellibotelho
The Embratur Team:
Marcelo Freixo
Jaqueline Gil
Icaro Nogueira
Special thanks to:
| Leandro Rygue | instagram.com/leandrorygue
| Jonathan Kromachine | instagram.com/kromachine |
| Ana Luiza Oliveira | instagram.com/analuizaoliveirra
| Rio 4 Fun | instagram.com/rio4fun
| Vertical Rio | instagram.com/vertical.rio
| Dandara Siqueira | instagram.com/dand.br
Musicbed syncID MB01OW622C7ADF1
Wondering why the water at Arroyo Salado is so clear? It’s because of the natural filtration by the limestone rocks, giving you a glimpse of paradise! 🪨
Best of all, this aquatic wonderland is easily accessible, making it the perfect spot for your next adventure! 🚙
Who’s ready to dive into this aqua paradise? 💦
📽 @razom_razom
📍 Arroyo Salado, Dominican Republic
🎶 Juan Luis Guerra - Vale la Pena
#beautifuldestinations #travelvideo
Our team wasn't just captivated by the country's crystal-clear waters and picturesque sunsets, but we were enchanted by the luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality that only Katikies can offer. Don't miss the chance to create your own extraordinary vacation—experience the magic of Greece and choose Katikies as your sanctuary for a journey of a lifetime.
Watch our incredible video and let your wanderlust take flight! ✈️
The Beautiful Destinations Team
Logan Armstrong | Director & Editor | instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Chris Shepherd | Filmmaker | instagram.com/cshep
Cas Sheridan | Filmmaker & FPV Drone Pilot | instagram.com/cassheridan
Discover the journey through these beautiful destinations: newzealand.com/int/feature/beautiful-destinations-itinerary
#beautifuldestinations #FIFAWWC #IfYouSeekNZ #beyondgreatness
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Director and editor | Clare Thurkett | instagram.com/clarethurkett?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Director of photography | Ben Mikha | instagram.com/benmikha?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
1st AC | Lara Gamill | instagram.com/lara_gamill?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
FPV/Drone Operator | Ron Hailes-Paku | instagram.com/ron.hp?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Producer | Hannia Zavala | instagram.com/hanniazavala?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
Talent | Amaia-Rose Clarke
Composer | Sebastian Fritze | instagram.com/sebastianfritze?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
Head of Global Production | Michael Anderson
The Tourism New Zealand Team:
Jill Chestnut
Declan Malone
Marcelo Cobra
Zoe Pert
Armaan Ali
Scott Marszalek
Special thanks to:
Huka Falls
Waimangu
Te Ara I Whiti - The Lightpath
Hamilton Gardens
Hobbiton™ Movie Set
Te Pā Tū
Te Puia
Interislander
Waka Abel Tasman
Kate Sheppard House
Lake Tekapo
Dart River
Lighthorse Adventures
Real NZ
How beautiful is this spot? ❤️
📽 @aqilavviv
📍 Danau Paisu Pok Luk Panenteng, Indonesia
📷 An original for Beautiful Destinations, shot by instagram.com/reme_martyr
📍Pearl Island, Panama
pearlisland.com
What do you think of its incredible palm-lined pool? 🏊♂️
📹 An original shot Logan Armstrong for Beautiful Destinations
📍1 Hotel South Beach, Miami
#beautifuldestinations #travel #miami
Follow our journey through the cities of the eight remaining quarter-final teams: Naples, Munich, Madrid, Lisbon, Manchester, London, and Milan.
As the airline that connects the most destinations in the world, Turkish Airlines connects fans all over the world that share the same passion to see their team play in the final of the UEFA Champions League in Istanbul.
The Turkish Airlines Team:
Fatih Daloğulları I Americas PR Expert
Ahmet Selim Okuyan I PR Supervisor
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Matias De Rada | Director | instagram.com/matiasderada
Gastón Luna | Filmmaker & Editor | instagram.com/gaston_luna
Adonias Fonseca | Freestyler | instagram.com/adonias
Christian Basher | VFX | instagram.com/cristianbasher
Jose Portillo I Sound assistant I instagram.com/joseportilloch
Donika Seferi | Producer | instagram.com/donikaseferi
Nick Evans | Producer | instagram.com/nickevansbd
Ahmed Osman | Sr. Account Manager & Producer | instagram.com/a7medrashad
Michael Anderson I Sr Producer I instagram.com/manderson_1616
Football Legends:
Ronaldinho I instagram.com/ronaldinho
Steven Gerrard | instagram.com/stevengerrard
Cafu I instagram.com/cafu2
#TurkishAirlines #ChampionsLeague #Ucl #beautifuldestinations
To some, it may be action, adventure, wellness, or romance… but this stay made us feel that a combination of all is possible. On this trip, we discovered the best of Singapore: The world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, the spectacular sights from SkyPark Observation Deck, the immersive experiences at ArtScience Museum, the gourmet delicacies at renowned restaurants, the luxurious curation of retail brands, the iconic nightlife destinations, and more.
Watch and discover moments to live for!
The Hotel:
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore | @marinabaysands / www.marinabaysands.com
Beautiful Destinations Team:
Matias De Rada | Director, Filmmaker, Editor | @matiasderada
Andrew James | Filmmaker | @Andrewjmes
Cristan Basher | VFX | @cristianbasher
Donika Seferi | Producer, Talent | @Donikaseferi
Victor Wan Yi | FPV Pilot | @victorwanyi
CK | Drone Pilot | @jugenstil
Joey Kukielka | Producer | @kookiejoey
Ding Jie Ng | Producer | @ding.n
Special thanks to:
Chantal Windley | @chantalwindley
Camira Asrori | @camira.asrori
Jen Kim | @jenergyyyy
Stephanie Gomes Tay | @xstephgt
Richard Englisch | @richardenglisch
Waga Mari Yacht Charters | @wagamari_yachtchaters
Our week filled up with unforgettable experiences: boating on the Vltava River, wandering through the regal Strahov Library, exploring Havlicek Gardens, watching the sunrise at the Prague Castle, dancing in the rain outside the National Theatre, watching the sunset over the Charles Bridge and so much more! Forever grateful to the amazing talents we worked with and to our host, Andaz Prague, a Concept by Hyatt.
The Hotel:
Andaz Prague | hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/czech/andaz-prague/prgaz
Music:
David A. Molina
Song: Monarch
Track: open.spotify.com/track/2aeLxCLFHTV1uC5gZ2vKRe?si=38b7f86705b94b2f
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Alexis Lefrene | Director, Filmmaker, & Editor | instagram.com/alexislefrene/?hl=en
Andrew James | Filmmaker | instagram.com/andrewjmes/?hl=en
Lizzy Cole | Art Director & Producer | instagram.com/lizzymcole
Nick Evans | Producer | instagram.com/nickevansbd
Special Thanks To:
Terezie Kovalova | @tereziekoval
Fraser Roach | @fraser_roach
Amanda Diaz | @amndadiaz
Emma Smetana | @emmasmetana_music
Jordan Haj | @jordanhaj
Do Thu Trang | @trangovat
Zuzana Straska | @zuzanastraska
All 7 Katikies properties became our revolving home-base for the shoot, not to mention central characters in the resulting film. From sunrise to sunset we’d shoot in the stunning rooms, pools, restaurants, and corridors before diving into the views and setting out to film at nearby locations like Red Beach, Black Beach, Ammoudi, Mykonos Town, or Earth and Water Pottery Studio. Katikies was more than a sanctuary, the hotel and its staff was an expert concierge to truly experiencing the islands, arranging everything from yacht excursions to authentic cavernous wine tastings for us.
We experienced the magic of Greece all throughout the shooting process and we hope you feel it while watching the video. Look for it in the painted canvas of the intro scene which a local artist painted for us in under 24 hours, and in the violinist at Red Beach who agreed to climb to a peak and play his songs on a more dramatic stage for us, and in the steady hands of potterist Andreas Makaris who never tired of our studio visits to capture one more angle. Thank you for all the magic, Greece!
The Hotels:
Katikies | katikies.com
Music:
Jai Wolf | instagram.com/jaiwolfx
Song: "Moon Rider"
Track: open.spotify.com/track/3PP9CXeE0PYaM5GIGQqBIV?si=416ae12319e849cf
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Matias De Rada | Director, Filmmaker, & Editor | instagram.com/matiasderada
Gaston Luna | Filmmaker & Assistant Editor | instagram.com/gaston_luna
Christian Basher | VFX | instagram.com/cristianbasher
Reme Morales | FPV Drone Pilot | instagram.com/reme_martyr
Lizzy Cole | Art Director & Producer | instagram.com/lizzymcole
Konstantinos Sigalas | Producer | instagram.com/k.sigalas
Nick Evans | Producer | instagram.com/nickevansbd
Special Thanks To:
Vassia Kostara | instagram.com/vassia_kostara
Elly Stark | instagram.com/starkellen
Dimitris Tzanetakos | instagram.com/dimitristzanetakos_
Joanne Mindrinou | instagram.com/ioanna_mindrinou
Santorini Horse Riding | instagram.com/santorini_horse_riding
#Katikies #Greece #Santorini #Mykonos #JaiWolf
Hey guys! Sham Ismail here and I’d like to thank you all for watching this travel film.
So many hours have been spent to bring you this short but energetic film. These past few months have been physically and mentally exhausting, but it’s been worth it. I spent time with some amazing people with who I had the pleasure of traveling around Pakistan with.
This film gives you a glimpse into the culture and the scenic landscapes Pakistan has to offer. This visual story takes you on a journey as narratives unfold through the winding mountain passes and chaotic city roads connecting us to the land and its people. Pakistan is a destination not many of us think about when we think adventure, but let this video be a testament to that.
Film Directed & Edited by: Sham Ismail
If you’d like to see more of my adventures, connect with me on Instagram and Subscribe to my YouTube channel:
youtube.com/channel/UCLvDIJ5jUZ2ZwBjwNAZjhSA
instagram.com/shamm_ismail
Music Produced by the talented: Ahmed Hussain instagram.com/hasu.mp3
Ain Dubai is the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel. It’s been 10 years in the making and stands at over 820 feet!
@BeautifulDestinations was tasked with the project and the brief was very clear. Make a high energy video that positions Ain Dubai as the new entertainment hub of Dubai and celebrates this attraction as so much more than just a view.
Tickets are currently on sale for the grand opening on October 21st (click the link below)
aindubai.com/en/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=ain_dubai_launch_2021&utm_content=bd
Director's Notes
(@tomjauncey)
The last few months has been head down focused on directing the launch commercial for Ain and I couldn’t be more proud to share it.
I’ve been wanting to do something with Slow Motion for a while and with the release of the @freeflysystems Wave camera I knew I could come up with something special.
My concept was “Bullet Time” - slowing down moments in time to showcase the vast number of experiences that could be had during a day at Ain and Bluewaters Island.
Now it was about building a team to execute and none of this would have been possible if it hadn’t been for the incredible work from each of these guys.
We had @43lens on the FPV drone. We upped our game in a big way using the @catalystmachine Money Shot Mini, which allowed us to put the Wave cinema camera on a custom built drone. Love Paras took this challenge on and delivered some exceptional aerial work executing a number of Dubai firsts.
@ferrufilms took on the cinematics and hero edit. His professionalism & attention to detail was exceptional. Shooting on the Wave & Canon C70, Jacob was able to nail the very different compositions and styles that each scene required.
@itsprestonchen took on the supporting cinematics and mastered the VFX. Preston created the underwater sequence, inspired by an Apple commercial, and I think he did it better!
@shravanraoo supported Preston on the VFX creating the @dubaiholding cloud transition which sets the tone for the video in a truly wow factor way.
So much more went into this with lots of sleepless nights getting this done but it was the #BDTeam spirit and energy that got us through it all. Couldn’t be more proud of the team!
Thank you Dubai Holding & Ain Dubai for trusting in us and letting us get creative 😉.
The Beautiful Destinations Team
Tom Jauncey | Director & Executive Producer | instagram.com/tomjauncey
Love Paras | FPV Pilot | instagram.com/43lens
Jacob Ferrufino | Cinematographer & Editor | instagram.com/ferrufilms
Preston Chen | Cinematographer & VFX | instagram.com/itsprestonchen
Shravan Rao | VFX | instagram.com/shravanraoo
Music
Custom Score by Fake Blood
instagram.com/iamfakeblood
open.spotify.com/artist/6NaTOhsj6iiUNONPrE980Z?si=jY7ztGcrSkSO1n8eH54h7Q&dl_branch=1
Special Thanks To
Ain Dubai
Dubai Holdings
Freefly Systems
Catalyst Machineworks
Despite encountering an attack by a great white shark in 1963, Rodney Fox didn't stop exploring the oceans. Instead of letting fear paralyze him, he let his fascination push him forward, going so far as to building the first-ever underwater shark observation cage and pioneering shark cage diving. Today, he has dedicated over 50 years of his life to shark conservation, continuing his mission of giving sharks a voice, redefining the public perception of sharks, and advocating for their protection.
Filmmaker Elliot Grafton had the honor of meeting Rodney Fox and his team, setting out on a 4-day expedition in South Australia's Neptune Islands to capture footage of great whites and gaining wisdom from the shark-attack-survivor-turned-conservationist himself.
Filmmaker: Elliot Grafton
Instagram: instagram.com/elliotgrafton
YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCeIn584P4Sn7Fxu9iqC2caw
So many videos have been made of the party side, but very few cinematic videos exist that we felt truly captured this other side. So we decided to partner up with 7Pines & Destination By Hyatt to try and create the definitive visual guide to #Ibiza.
The Hotel:
7Pines Resort Ibiza | 7pines.com/en/ibiza
The first European resort under the Destination By Hyatt brand | hyatt.com/brands/destination-by-hyatt
Music:
Kasbo | instagram.com/kasbomusic
Song: "Show You"
Album: open.spotify.com/album/4yrjPmonSHiJIHum5TrqEe?si=woAAgjCPQAmF1xbMon5WpQ&nd=1
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Matias De Rada | Filmmaker | instagram.com/matiasderada
Matthew Rumble | Editor
Lizzy Cole | Creative Director & Producer | instagram.com/lizzymcole
Special Thanks To:
Jamie Lou Walsh | instagram.com/jamielouwellness
Lorenzo Giublesi | instagram.com/lorenzyoga
Jessie May Young & her wonderful Bohemian Bond family | instagram.com/jessiemay_bohemianbond + instagram.com/bohemianbondibiza
Maisie Kate Young | instagram.com/maisiekateyoung
Lauren Sophie Messack | instagram.com/laurensophiemessack
Nic Schroth | instagram.com/nic.schroth
Karla Pires | instagram.com/karlapires
#DestinationByHyatt #7PinesIbiza #Ibiza #Kasbo #Spain
You know what is crazy? Exactly 15 months ago, I came across the Beautiful Destinations Turkey FPV video & fell in love with the way everything was captured using a FPV drone. I even remember showing the video to my colleagues at a 9-5 job that I was working at. This inspired me to quit my job (a year back) to pursue being a full-time creator. I always had a vision to travel to a country and capture the best spots only using a FPV drone.
An opportunity to travel to Georgia came up last month and I suddenly saw my vision coming to life. I am super grateful to Tom Jauncey for pushing me every single day & helping me put this video together in the best way possible.
Before visiting I didn't know much about the country but was blown away by it's rich culture, heritage and cuisine. Tbilisi is where I spent most of my time but then ventured out into the mountains by car.
For the budget conscious traveler Georgia is 100% the place for you.
Thank you so much for this opportunity & to many more! I hope you all like Georgia From Above - 43lens.
The Beautiful Destinations Team
Love Paras | FPV Pilot & Editor | instagram.com/43lens
Tom Jauncey | Creative Director | instagram.com/tomjauncey
Music
"Pick Your Battles" by Petit Biscuit & Diplo instagram.com/petitbiscuit
instagram.com/diplo
Special Thanks To
Reme Morales | instagram.com/sntreme
You’ve all seen the futuristic skylines of Dubai & Abu Dhabi but have you ever seen the great outdoors of the Emirates?
This was shot across Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai as the #BDTeam explored the mountains, deserts, beaches and waters of the country. There are so many hidden gems in the Emirates.There’s truly something for everyone, making the UAE the #WorldsCoolestWinter.
Music
"Corallo" by Pines
instagram.com/pines_music
open.spotify.com/artist/3SL3PIAghJvyjrCZkZQXhZ?si=-VDJ8yw9Qc2-TQjEYwZDHA
Special Thanks To
The Emirates | instagram.com/nationbranduae
New Media Academy | instagram.com/newmediaacdmy
Sharjah Tourism | instagram.com/shjtourism
Visit Ras Al Khaimah | instagram.com/visitrasalkhaimah
Visit Abu Dhabi | instagram.com/visitabudhabi
Visit Dubai | instagram.com/visit.dubai
Fujairah Tourism | instagram.com/fujairahtourism
Fatima Alhashmi | instagram.com/fatialhashmi
Ghaith Al Falasi | instagram.com/ghaith_79
Peyman Rashid Al Awadhi | instagram.com/peymanalawadhi
Shurouq Lashkri | instagram.com/shurouqlashkri /
Irthi Council | instagram.com/irthicouncil
Yas Marina Circuit | instagram.com/ymcofficial
Mysk Al Badayer | instagram.com/myskalbadayerretreat
Ski Dubai | instagram.com/skidxb
Visit Hatta | instagram.com/visit.hatta
Abdullah Ali | instagram.com/abdullahali.ara
Bluewaters | instagram.com/bluewatersdubai
Anantara Qasr Al Sarab | instagram.com/anantaraqasralsarab
Sultan Abdullah | instagram.com/sultan.abz
Fahima Falaknaz | instagram.com/fahimafalaknaz
Shangri-La Hotel Dubai | instagram.com/shangrila_dubai
The Flag Island | instagram.com/theflagisland
Chef Saud | instagram.com/chef_saud
Global Village| instagram.com/globalvillageuae
Kholoud Alhosani | instagram.com/kholoudik
Omar Chammaa | instagram.com/omar.chammaa
Ruthless Ryan| instagram.com/ruthlessryan94
Inspire Yoga | instagram.com/inspireyogadxb
Tanya Zag | instagram.com/tanyaazg
Real Boxing Only | instagram.com/realboxingonly
Meraas | instagram.com/meraasdubai
Address Sky View | instagram.com/addressskyview
Emaar | instagram.com/emaardubai
Downtown Dubai | instagram.com/downtowndubai
Eyad Jaouni | instagram.com/e.j.valhalla
TK MMA & Fitness | instagram.com/tkmmafit
#UAE #BeautifulDestinations #Emirates
On doing our research of the destination we felt there wasn't a go to cinematic video that truly represented the vibe of the place and showcased all of Tulum's natural beauty. So we decided to partner up with our friends at #DJI to try and create the definitive visual guide to #Tulum. We've included a behind the scenes "Getting The Shot" at the end of this video in an effort to show you our creative process, how our team executes on the ground and the suite of DJI products that we used.
Below is a link to all of the DJI products that were used:
store.dji.com/ae?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=kol&utm_campaign=bd
Product List:
- DJI OM4
- DJI RS2
- DJI RSC
- DJI Inspire 2
- DJI Mavic Air 2
- DJI Pocket 2
- DJI Osmo Action
- DJI Digital FPV System
Music:
Kasbo | instagram.com/kasbomusic
Song 1: "Play Pretend"
Song 2: "Talk Slow"
Kasbo's new album below:
open.spotify.com/album/4yrjPmonSHiJIHum5TrqEe?si=woAAgjCPQAmF1xbMon5WpQ
The Beautiful Destinations Team:
Logan Armstrong | Filmmaker & Editor | instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Tom Jauncey | Creative Director & Producer | instagram.com/tomjauncey
Reme Morales | FPV Pilot | instagram.com/reme_martyr
Chris Shepherd | Filmmaker | instagram.com/cshep
Jerome Poirier | BTS | instagram.com/jerometraveller
Greg Skriloff | Producer | instagram.com/gregskril
Special Thanks To
DJI | instagram.com/djiglobal
Azulik | instagram.com/azulik
Habitas | instagram.com/habitastulum
Papaya Playa Project | instagram.com/papayaplayaproject
Yoshi Zen Couture | instagram.com/yoshizencouture
Drone Racing Parts | instagram.com/droneracingparts
Adrien Anne | instagram.com/travelwithadrien
Rita Cardosa | instagram.com/reepetite
Zoe Jane Mitchell | instagram.com/zoejanemitchell
Hannah Paige | instagram.com/hannahhpaige
Rachel Tudor | instagram.com/racheltudoryoga
Julian Jung | instagram.com/julianmjung
Jamie Larson | instagram.com/wanderwithjamie
Lizzy Cole | | instagram.com/lizzymcole
Nick Evans | instagram.com/nickevansbd
Xaman-Ha Connections | instagram.com/xamanhaconnections
Tankah Tulum | instagram.com/tankahtulum
Burrito Amor | instagram.com/burritoamor
#TulumBeach #Kasbo #Mexico
The opportunities for exploration in the Philippines are endless—from the Hundred Island National Park in Pangasinan to exploring the Suba and Culili Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte.
Have you traveled to the Philippines before? If not, is it a destination on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
https://www.philippines.travel/safetrip
TEAM:
Kyrke Jaleco | Filmmaker and Editor
instagram.com/kyrkejaleco
David Justin Robles | Filmmaker and editor
instagram.com/deejrobles
Ren Sapitan | Producer
instagram.com/rensaps
Zabel Lamberth | Talent
instagram.com/zabelamberth
Rhyza Gayle Litaoen | Talent
instagram.com/rhyzagayle
Special thanks to the Department of Tourism in the Philippines!
instagram.com/tourism_phl
MUSIC:
Rite of Passage by Daniel Deaschle
Onward by Ryan Taubert
Lennart Pagel (@lennart) and Max Muench (@muenchmax) showed us some of their favorite spots around Germany- from castles to national parks!
Modern engineering gives old memories a new meaning in Germany. It is a place where the past and future come together. From exploring the stunning castles of Schloss Drachenburg and Schloss Moritzburg to discovering the astounding natural sites of Zugspitze and Eifel National Park, the German Roamers show us their favorite spots to capture amazing content in Germany.
Traveling across Germany doesn’t only show its landscapes and its people, it also inspires us to go beyond what meets the eye. Come explore Germany’s hidden gems with us.
TEAM:
Lennart Pagel | Photographer and German Roamer | instagram.com/lennart
Max Muench | Photographer and German Roamer | instagram.com/muenchmax
Nathalie Gunhild Andersson | Filmmaker | instagram.com/filmbygunhild
Ben Mikha | Filmmaker | instagram.com/benmikha
Dzana Asworth | Producer | instagram.com/peaceandflying
Special thanks to Germany Tourism! instagram.com/germanytourism
Diwali is India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year, observed by more than a billion people across faiths. Known as the Festival of Lights, it is a 5-day celebration bringing prayer, feasts, fireworks, family gatherings and, for some, a new year. Derived from the Sanskrit "dipavali", which means “row of lights,” Diwali is known for the brightly burning clay lamps that celebrants line up outside their homes to cherish the victory of good over evil.
With this year’s coronavirus pandemic affecting the celebration, may we be able to derive comfort from the spirit of the holiday—the belief that, eventually, light will triumph over darkness.
A Beautiful Destinations Original
Filmed, Directed and Edited by Sam Kolder
instagram.com/samkolder
Second Shooters:
Jacob Riglin
instagram.com/jacob
Jordan Wright
instagram.com/taylorcutfilms
Aerial Video by Tom Jauncey
instagram.com/tomjauncey
DIRECTOR'S NOTES:
"Hey guys! Diogo Bras here. I am a Portuguese Creative Producer/Filmmaker and I'm blown away to have this incredible opportunity that seemed like a dream to me.
I started my journey as a filmmaker over a year ago and until now I'm just filming with my phone. Everyday I work on improving my skills and I had a lot of failures. Failures to myself and not being able to create what I wanted. But I had some wins and the best win of all was this one.
What's In Your Backyard was a challenge from Beautiful Destinations and when I saw it, I didn't think twice. I called some friends and we explored our own backyard with just a phone a drone.
Praia da Ursa is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It really surprised me to see a place like it in Portugal. I didn't have to catch an airplane to see the most beautiful beach I ever saw. If you explore your own backyards, with your family or your friends, you will without doubt discover a paradise in a place that's always been close to you." - Diogo Bras
Instagram:
instagram.com/brasdio
Youtube:
youtube.com/channel/UC77W6WauCwMSqNXUPEJRyBw
Music was from Artlist io.
Hey Guys - Clé Hunnigan and Barnabas Kelemen here - a Director/DP duo based in London.
The Ghana story was very important and timely for us to tell when we did. Though originally from Jamaica/Cayman Islands, I did a DNA test to find out that my roots were from Ghana. The sentiment of 'home' and 'being comfortable in your skin' became especially symbolic for me and coincided with "The Year of The Return" in 2019 - Ghana's own national initiative which commemorated 400 years since the first African slaves touched down in the US and an invitation for people from the African Diaspora to return and connect with their cultural heritage. I took my first trip to Ghana in Dec 2019 to celebrate The Year of The Return with The Wind Collective Community and felt instantly at one with the culture there. There was something special about being in a place where you could truly be yourself. I ended up staying for 5 weeks to document, shoot and bring this story to life with one of my best friends and creative partners - Barni, and so the film - "The Golden Return" was born.
From highlighting the first Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence - to showcasing the youth and a rich history, this film is about celebrating blackness, getting intimate and up close with Ghanaian culture and reclaiming the narrative of what the mainstream media claims Africa is. We hope you enjoy the vibrancy, energy and perspective of how we experienced Ghana. I hope it reminds you - that people are what make a place and invites you to travel “deeper” in order to find what makes us all truly human. As one of the lines in the film says - “Home isn’t just where you are. It is who you are - and here, you can be yourself.”
Written, Directed and Produced by: Clé Hunnigan
instagram.com/alivelikethewind/
Shot and Edited by: Barnabas Kelemen
instagram.com/beyondthebeat/
Production Company: Wind Collective
youtube.com/channel/UCXp-XtXmolj9rt-l88d7bKg
Production Assistants: Angelo Prempeh and Daniel Attoh
instagram.com/angeloprempeh/
instagram.com/danielattoh_/
Voiceover: Daniel Attoh
instagram.com/danielattoh_/
Special thanks to JayNii Foundation for allowing us to film the drumming circle. JayNii Streetwise is an initiative dedicated to providing health, education and safety to the youth of Accra.
jaynii.com/
Special thanks to E Flex and All Stars Dance Group for the dancing circle in Jamestown
instagram.com/eflexgh
Hey guys! My name is Jaxon Roberts and for the past few years I have been pursuing my dream of becoming a filmmaker and photographer. Since the beginning of my career, I always dreamt of capturing mind blowing locations that people haven’t yet seen before. The Cocos (Keeling) Islands, fits this description perfectly. Haven’t heard of it? Neither have I until a couple of years ago! And it’s part of Australia (where I’ve lived my whole life!).
Located off the coast of Western Australia, this once coconut palm plantation is now just a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and deep jungles that you have to see to believe. Cocos consists of 27 islands, only 2 of which are inhabited.
Back in December of 2019, I was lucky enough to travel here with a bunch of other creative minded people . Lucky for us, we have friends that grew up on these islands and could show us all they have to offer. From camping on our own island under the stars and amongst hundreds of hermit crabs to swimming in the clearest water you’ve ever seen, eating freshly caught and cooked fish and drinking fresh coconuts, this experience was something I once only ever dreamt of. Whilst filming this paradise I had 2 goals: to take in and embrace the simplistic island life and to portray the true essence of our experience. I came home with some of my favorite footage I’ve ever captured and I'm so happy I can share it all! Thanks for watching, your support means the world to me!
Jaxon Roberts | Filmmaker
Instagram - instagram.com/jaxon_roberts
Youtube - youtube.com/channel/UCrWanZKkaF9ow3orIPurRpg
Also a big thanks to Nush and Dre for letting me use some extra footage from the stunning underwater world of Cocos! Make sure you check these legends out, their work is insane!
Nush - instagram.com/nushfreedman
Dre - instagram.com/andrererekuracreative
Music
Song: “Bambro Koyo Ganda” by Bonobo
Bonobo's Instagram: instagram.com/si_bonobo
September 12th, 2020: four days before the launch of the GoPro Hero 9 and thanks to my friends at Adorama I get my hands on the highly anticipated new camera. The adrenaline is pumping as I know the next few days are going to be intense but that’s what I live for, a passion for creating.
In 2 days of shooting and 1 day of editing the goal is to turn around something that captures the attention of the world as GoPro releases their new camera. I love setting stretch goals and pushing the boundaries but this is going to be a challenge!
As I write this out it makes me laugh, that during quarantine I became Spider-Man. What started as a fun and quirky video during lockdown developed into something so much more. My Spider-Man videos have now generated over 25 Million views across Social Media and helped drive $125,000 for charity. So when Adorama approached me about the GoPro Hero 9, it was an obvious choice to bring Spider-Man back to life.
I liked the positioning of taking GoPro’s slogan quite literally, #BeAHero, and coming up with something original that would suit the style of the camera and show others what they could do with the product. In this case I wanted to create a high energy, in your face video that would merge first person POV with FPV, two things that GoPro have become synonymous with.
Despite my work and life revolving around Social Media, through Beautiful Destinations, I actually look elsewhere for my inspiration. Movies are what get me excited and I always love the concept of taking something that was done in film and translating that to the smaller screen. In this case I had Guy Ritchies’ quick cut editing style in mind and Matthew Vaughn’s Kickass/Kingsmen action scenes as the inspiration.
For me, new equipment is always an opportunity to try something different. I love challenging myself to push a product to it’s breaking point, that’s when you really know if the product is going to be a regular in your camera bag. The GoPro Hero 9 certainly will be!
Special Thanks
Team Spidey:
Tom Jauncey | Creator, Director, Filmmaker | instagram.com/tomjauncey
Reme Morales | FPV Pilot | instagram.com/reme_martyr
Andras Raczenböck | Editor | instagram.com/andras.ra
Noah Deitch | Parkour Athlete | instagram.com/noah_deitch
Maxwell Gorman | Parkour Athlete | instagram.com/tshirt
Greg Skriloff| Photographer | instagram.com/gregskril
Jerome Poirier | Photographer | instagram.com/jerometraveller
Andrews James | BTS | instagram.com/andrewjmes
Dave Scott | BTS | instagram.com/davescott_
Logan Armstrong | Getting The Shot Editor | instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Adorama - Thank you so much for making this all possible!
instagram.com/adorama
youtube.com/user/adoramaTV
More in-depth product review here:
youtube.com/watch?v=4ARk7hm6Ie0&feature=youtu.be
Music
Song: “Parliament Funk” by Knife Party
Knife Party Instagram: instagram.com/knifepartyinc
Parliament Funk Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/69B0nDESepCnUP39jLCPx0?si=wGJ_nYLzQJyfg8B_96dEkA
#GoPro #Hero9 #FPV #BeAHero #GoProHero #GoProHero9
In the last three decades, half of the world’s coral reefs have died and if we don’t act now, those ocean treasures will be completely gone by 2050. It would be the destruction of an entire ecosystem, and with it, ourselves.
Coral reef extinction profoundly impacts all species from marine life to human kind. We must be the generation to solve issues our oceans are facing. If we save our reefs we are one step closer to sustaining life on earth.
_________________________
A Film by Ben Ono
www.benjaminono.com
instagram.com/silkymerman
Created with Coral Gardeners
instagram.com/coralgardeners/?hl=en
Featuring Chelsea Yamase & Titouan Bernicot
instagram.com/chelseakauai
instagram.com/toutiess
Song: "The Planets Op 32 II Venus the Bringer of Peace"
__________________________
Adopt a coral and support Coral Gardener's mission to save the reef:
coralgardeners.org/adopt-corals
Hey everyone. Elliot Grafton here.
I am a filmmaker/photographer from Australia.
I spent some time exploring my own backyard the past few weeks, and it has blown me away. I think sometimes people forget to appreciate the areas they call home. Itʼs easy to do, we get so caught up in daily life, the idea of escaping to somewhere far away becomes so romantic. But really I think the root of our dissatisfaction with staying local comes down to inattention.
If you take even a second to really look at how beautiful your own backyard is, the native flora & fauna... where else will you ever find that? To showcase the beauty in local travel, all you really need to do is be present.
FILMMAKER: Elliot Grafton
instagram.com/elliotgrafton
Youtube
youtube.com/channel/UCeIn584P4Sn7Fxu9iqC2caw?view_as=subscriber
Hey everyone. Matias De Rada here.
This was such a unique story that I was able to tell during my time in Egypt. For many years, the artistic culture has not been able to get much recognition resulting in most artists working in silence. This story is a look into how a group of musicians are innovating within a genre of music called "Mahraganat" which originated in underprivileged neighborhoods of Cairo, but is now getting the attention of the entire country.
This film is dedicated to any creative out there who intends on carving out their own path no matter the circumstances and who at the same time looks to utilize their skills to push out positivity and optimism. I hope this film inspires you all to see any challenge in the field you are interested in as an opportunity to grow fond of the process knowing that as long as we don’t attach ourselves to the outcome, we will end up enduring much of the hardships that cause many people to give up.
Credits:
Directed & Edited by : Matias De Rada
instagram.com/matiasderada
Filmed By: Sage Stephens & Matias De Rada
instagram.com matiasderada/
instagram.com/storyofsage
Producer: Lauren Weber
instagram.com/webslauren
Creative Director: Emmie Noswitz
Sound Mix: Ben Hale & Matthew Smith
Local Producer: Nader Makram & Syliva Amin
instagram.com/nadermakram
instagram.com/sylviaamin
Wezza Montaser (Mahraganat Artist)
instagram.com wezzamontaser/
3enaabb (Mahraganat Artist)
instagram.com/3enaabb
Said.Fatla ( Mahraganat Artist)
instagram.com/saeid.fatla
Abdala_Sadam (Dancer)
instagram.com/abdala_sadam
Click on the link below to enter:
http://bit.ly/YourBackyard
What’s In Your Backyard is a celebration of the beautiful local spots that are within driving distance of your home. For many of us, Travel is associated with hopping on a flight and going somewhere completely foreign. However, there is local beauty in every corner of the world that currently can be captured safely and responsibly. Given 2020 has been a year of change for Travel, Beautiful Destinations wants to put a local spotlight on our community, their homes and show that Travel is as much about exploring the hidden gems around you as it is venturing somewhere foreign.
Our community is built up of creative talent from all over the world. In an effort to feature more of you across our channels we’d love to see you make a 2-3 minute video in the same style as this “What’s In Your Backyard?”.
Your video submission should be solely using a phone and a drone. The goal here is for anyone to be able to make it with the device that’s in their pocket. If you don’t have a drone then a fully mobile video is absolutely fine. This mobile focus will give the video a POV (point of view) style. We’d recommend you mix in multiple perspectives and angles of each location and experience, focusing on quicker cut editing.
The mobile style and voiceover is meant to make the piece more relatable and achievable for the everyday traveler. Drone content adds further wow factor and helps establish the destination but again, this is not essential.
Your video should be brought to life through a voice over narration. Think of it as a reflective “storytime” piece of content that focuses on a wow factor local destination or experience that is close to your home. One way of looking at this is to imagine you were explaining that “must do or must visit” location or experience to a friend, that’s never heard of or been there.
How would you get them excited about visiting and experiencing that place? Think about keeping the content engaging, fun and adding value or insight.
Let’s see what you’ve got!
The Beautiful Destinations Team
Tom Jauncey | Creator, Filmmaker, Narrator & Director | instagram.com/tomjauncey
Logan Armstrong | Editor | instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Greg Skriloff | Website Design | instagram.com/gregskril
Jeremy Jauncey | Character | | Editor | instagram.com/jeremyjauncey
Special Thanks To
Mohonk Mountain House | instagram.com/mohonkmountainhouse
Hey everyone, Sam Newton here.
This was a pretty special film for me to put together. Not only is it a collection of some of my favorite shots from my all around the world, it also showcases some of my favorite memories with other creatives who I am lucky enough to call my friends. This piece is an ode to all photographers and videographers that don’t just sit around and wait to be inspired, but actually get up and go. Being a travel photographer/videographer is a job that takes a very specific type of person, someone who is borderline obsessive and dedicated to his or her craft, but it is a truly rewarding profession that has given me a true reason to live, and I believe with the right amount of crazy its a life anyone can have. I hope this connects with a few of you, and hopefully is the spark you need to grab your camera, get outside, and go chase your not so perfect shot.
CREATOR:
youtube.com/samnewton
instagram.com/samnewtonmedia
However right now we can’t fully experience either of them as we used to. Now more than ever people are looking for moments of happiness.
We believe that Music & Travel can come together as a way to bring about more moments of happiness. Beautiful Destinations has always focused on making a positive impact. We transform destinations, change perceptions and spread feel good content that people actively search out. By combining music with a beautiful backdrop we believe we can spark some joy back into the world.
Let’s make those travel moments and music experiences virtual, as music transports you.
Live from Toulouse, France with CloZee
Clozee on Instagram: instagram.com/clozeeofficial
Beautiful Destinations on Instagram: instagram.com/beautifuldestinations
All of this is under threat if the Pebble Mine moves forward. The recent approval of the environmental impact statement has made it clear that our voices need to be heard.
Nature and people can’t live without fresh water, and Bristol Bay is the lifeblood that sustains every species calling the region home. On a recent trip to Alaska, the #BDTeam and WWF Ambassador, Jeremy Jauncey, learned firsthand about the conservation community’s fight against Pebble Mine.
Team
Jeremy Jauncey | Host | instagram.com/jeremyjauncey/?hl=en
Logan Lambert | Filmmaker & Editor | instagram.com/loganlambert/?hl=en
Tommaso Fontanella | Creative Director | instagram.com/tomfonta/?hl=en
TAKE ACTION:
Tell EPA to VETO the Pebble Mine.
Despite the threat of a mining disaster in Bristol Bay, Pebble Mine permitting has been rushed through at record speed. The final environmental review for Pebble Mine was released on July 23 2020 and the US Army Corps can issue a record of decision and permit the mine after 30 days. Now is the time to make our opposition to Pebble Mine heard.
Call the EPA Regional Director Chris Hladick and Alaskan Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and tell them to do everything in their power to push the EPA to veto the Pebble Mine.
The EPA has a responsibility to protect Bristol Bay communities and must veto the Pebble Mine.
Lisa Murkowski 907-271-3735
Dan Sullivan 907-271-5915
Chris Hladick 206-553-1234
Learn more about Pebble Mine’s impact on Bristol Bay: worldwildlife.org/stories/why-we-must-help-bristol-bay-now
Music: Origin - David A. Molina
Also known as the Hindu celebration of colors, Holi festival is celebrated every year by millions of people who throw pigments of color at each other's faces.
Originally Holi festival celebrated the fertility of the land, today the participants rejoice for the abundant crops and the defeat of evil.
Holika was a demoness in Hindu Vedic scriptures, who was burnt to death with the help of God Vishnu. The story of Holika Dahan (Holika's death) signifies the triumph of good over evil. Holika is associated with an annual bonfire on the night before Holi.
"I hope this film can take you there, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Let me know what you think in the comments below!" - Kevin Clerc
Check out Kevin's work:
http://instagram.com/facedumonde
http://facedumonde.fr/
http://vimeo.com/facedumonde
Oaxaca City is the capital of mezcal, and you could say that this drink is one of the world’s most complex and misunderstood liquors. Most people know that it’s made from the agave plant, just like Tequila, but did you know that Tequila is just one type of mezcal? Tequila is produced in only approved regions and only from a specific species of plant. In contrast to that, mezcal can be made from several other agave species which allows flavors to vary widely, from smoky and honeyed to grassy and peppery! The history of the drink is incredibly interesting and we hope this video encourages you to travel here someday and learn more.
The state of Oaxaca sponsors the International Mezcal Festival which is usually held every year here in Oaxaca City. During the festival, locals and tourists can sample and buy a large variety of mezcals.
TEAM:
Arman Mitchell | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/armanmitchell
Cory Martin | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/cory.s.martin
Looking to push our FPV skills to the next level we spontaneously took a trip up the coast. Mapping out some of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic locations. Keane Luong, Tucker Doss, and I were met with some of the most incredible conditions for flying. Over the course of 2 weeks we flew almost everyday, “PACIFIC” is a collection of my best clips from the trip. To simpler times and for the love of flying.
Mitchell Mullins | FPV Pilot / Director
youtube.com/mitchellmullins
instagram.com/mitchell_mullins/?hl=en
contact@mitchellmullins.com
The Music
Diplo - Win Win (feat. Tove Lo) [Yotto Remix]
soundcloud.com/diplo/diplo-win-win-feat-tove-lo-1
instagram.com/yottomusic/?hl=en
Matt Fax - To The Ground
soundcloud.com/colorize-enhanced/matt-fax-to-the-ground-out-now-on-colorscapes
instagram.com/mattfaxmusic/?hl=en
Filmmaker: Benn TK
Youtube - youtube.com/channel/UCDRqoPBHJ7oFcxqvyPBAg6A
Instagram - instagram.com/benn_tk
If you're interested in booking this trip you can check it out here
https://www.welcometo.travel/tour/the-east-coast-mid-semester/
Head to Jackson if you want to explore the iconic Grand Teton National Park or the world-class skiing offered in Jackson Hole. Plus there is also the nearby National Elk Refuge if you’d like to see some wildlife! The #BDTeam really loved Yellowstone National Park. While it is famous for Old Faithful Geyser, it also offers stunning canyons, lush forests, racing rivers, and hot springs!
We usually talk about warm destinations when we think of vacations but what do you think of Wyoming in the winter? No matter what activities you participate in here, it is sure to be an adventure!
TEAM:
Andrew James | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/andrewjmes
Chris Sheperd | Filmmaker instagram.com/cshep
Yelena Jeune | Producer instagram.com/lenalovelyj
Catarina Mello | Travel + Lifestyle Creator instagram.com/professionaltraveler
Special thanks to Visit The USA! instagram.com/visittheusa
Piazza Santa Croce, located directly in front of the church Santa Croce, has always been the home to this game. The square is covered in dirt to commemorate a time long ago when the square was just dirt rather than stone as it is today. Bleachers are set up so that spectators can better enjoy the game and have a view of the action.
The whole city turns out to enjoy the spectacle for Calcio Storico is not just a sporting event but a celebration of Florence!
Last year several members of the #BDTeam traveled to Florence for Calcio Storico. Even though the games are not being held this June we want to pay tribute to the history and tradition of this unique sporting event. Is there something special to your home or area that differentiates it or is significant to you? Let us know in the comments!
TEAM:
Logan Armstrong | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Chris Sheperd | Filmmaker instagram.com/cshep
Tommaso Fontanella | Director & Writer instagram.com/tomfonta
Oliver Gallini | Producer instagram.com/treeolives
Special thanks to the city of Florence!
instagram.com/cittadifirenzeufficiale
I spent a couple of days in the beautiful capital city of the United Kingdom this March! It was just right before the global lockdown. During my stay a local taxi driver told me that the city is usually filled with more life & pleasure. Even though you could feel the "strangeness“ in the air, I made the best out of my time there. I hope you can “flow” through London with me!
Andras Ra
instagram.com/andras.ra
http://www.youtube.com/user/Avandyvy
Music
Forever Broken - Swif7
Vietnam is a traveler’s dream. Ride a scooter along the busy streets of Hanoi, try paragliding in Hoành Bồ, sleep on a traditional boat on Hạ Long Bay, and experience the beautiful culture that this country offers.
The #BDTeam recommends taking an overnight journey to one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights - Ban Gioc Waterfall. The falls occur on the Quay Son River, a beautiful jade-blue body of water flowing from China through a pastoral landscape of rice fields and bamboo groves surrounded by limestone pinnacles.
Another very unique experience was cruising along Ha Long Bay. With 3,000 limestone and dolomite islets sprinkled over an area of 1,500 square kilometers, Ha Long Bay offers a wonderland of karst topography. In recognition of this, in 1994, Ha Long Bay was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you travel to the northernmost region of Vietnam, you will find Ha Giang. A remote destination that has been open to tourism for only a few years. The region boasts nature as you’ve never seen it. Massive limestone walls, granite outcrops everywhere, hanging valleys, rice terraces climbing to the clouds, and winding roads carved into the mountainsides. This alone sounds like a great adventure, but combined with the ubiquitous presence of the local hill tribes—mostly proud Black Hmong—this experience is a "must-do" on any Vietnam itinerary.
From the capital city to the most remote part of Vietnam, this is a beautiful destination that will create lasting memories for any travelers. Have you visited Vietnam yet? Let us know what you think in the comments!
THE TEAM:
Alex Adrian Lopez Rios | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/alexdronepilot
Chris Shepherd | Filmmaker instagram.com/cshep
Logan Armstrong | Filmmaker instagram.com/loganstrongarms
Tom Jauncey | Filmmaker & Producer instagram.com/tomjauncey
The deepest gorge in France, Gorges du Verdon, is one of the must-see natural wonders of central Provence. It is an easy day trip from the French Riviera, however, we recommend staying in the area for a couple of days because it has so much to offer.
The opportunities for adventure are endless. There are over 1500 incredible routes for rock climbers. For the very experienced, like Mich Kemeter, you may choose to go base jumping from the high altitudes of the mountain tops. For a more relaxed time, kayaking or boating into the lower part of the gorge is a very popular activity. Or hike to explore Gorges du Verdon and take photos. No matter how you spend your time, you can guarantee that it will be the trip of a lifetime. Had you heard of the Gorges du Verdon before? Let us know what you think in the comments!
TEAM:
Sage Stephens | Filmmaker instagram.com/storyofsage
Oliver Gallini | Producer instagram.com/treeolives
Mich Kemeter | instagram.com/michthek
Hey everyone. Kyle Vollaers here.
Last year I had the pleasure of traveling around Sri Lanka for two months and got to fully immerse myself in the natural beauty and culture of this incredible country. From the monumental views of Sigiriya Rock to the rolling tee fields of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka left me speechless every day.
After Sri Lanka went through such a huge tragedy last year, it was truly inspiring to experience so much positivity and hospitality from the local people. I am very much looking forward to returning to Sri Lanka once we can all travel again, and I really hope you make the trip out to this spectacular place yourself. I hope that this film can take you there, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Let me know what you think in the comments below!
CREATOR
youtube.com/channel/UCasKpgSWEO5nD5PMqgCUmBg
instagram.com/kylevollaers
MUSIC
Secret place – Chad Lawson
Lil Fish – Mantra
What’s up everyone!
My name is Ben Mikha, a filmmaker and photographer from New Zealand who has been working for Beautiful Destinations over the last year. A lot of you will be heading into summer in the coming months but down here in New Zealand we are about to enter winter. A season I once struggled with until I took a trip around my home which changed everything. I fell in love with everything winter has to offer, the snow, the mountains, the frozen lakes, and my personal favorite, the night sky!
I wanted to share these moments with you at a time when our planet is faced with a global crisis to remind you of how beautiful our home is. Even though times may be tough as we’re presented with a lot of uncertainty, I believe cultivating a positive mindset is what will help us all bounce back better than ever. With travel being out for a little while, I wanted to take you on a virtual tour across my home, a place where I find peace and solitude amongst nature. Most of all though, I hope this inspires you to see more of your backyard, whether a city or a national park, there’s always beauty to be found. Step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and invite new experiences. For me this was journeying into the mountains during the peak of winter which lead me to a newfound love for summers cooler sibling.
Thanks for hanging out!
Ben Mikha | Director, Videographer, Editor | instagram.com/benmikha
bit.ly/BenMikhaYouTube
Ron Hailes-Paku | 2nd Camera | instagram.com/ron.hp
Robert Nairn | 3rd Camera | instagram.com/robert_nairn
Music
"To The Ground" | Matt Fax
"Distance" | Vesky
Hey everyone! Clare Thurkett here.
I filmed and edited this video late last year at a time where everyone was traveling and making memories with their friends. Being in today's climate and looking back now, I’m so happy and grateful with how I was able to spend my time in Iceland.
I wasn’t as focused on capturing the destination, rather I was trying to capture the raw moments with my friends. I knew this trip wasn't exactly going to be smooth sailing with all the craziness that comes with putting 6 people into a small RV. But the adventures of getting lost multiple times, running out of gas, and not knowing how to drive manual, all led us to be closer as friends. We are all pretty nostalgic right now but I am also so excited for the future when we can travel again. Tell us about a crazy travel experience you’ve had in the comments.
Clare Thurkett | Filmaker instagram.com/clarethurkett
Robin Rivera | Filmaker instagram.com/rrobin_hood
Nikki Herrick | instagram.com/nikkiherrick
Hannah Porrata-Doria | instagram.com/hannahporrata
Alex Michael Green | instagram.com/alexfromiceland
Ryan Smith | instagram.com/chadmango93
MUSIC:
Midnight Kids - Those Were The Days ft. Jared Lee
Midnight Kids | instagram.com/midnightkids
Jared Lee | instagram.com/jaredleemusic
Last year in 2019 the Beautiful Destinations team traveled around Egypt for three weeks capturing the entire country. BD team member Jake Irish and I (Chris Shepherd) traveled through the eastern part of the country while our teammates Ben Mikha and Cory Martin split off to explore the western part of the country.
Jake and I started in Aswan and sailed up the Nile River to Luxor where we saw ancient temples and artifacts that I had only read about growing up. We then traveled east to the Red Sea where the water was turquoise blue and crystal clear; it was not surprising that it has some of the best scuba diving in the world. We finished our journey in the Sinai Peninsula where the hospitality of the local Bedouins greeted us at every turn and the rugged mountains and vast desert landscapes took our breath away. At the same time Ben and Cory traveled where we could not in Alexandria, Siwa, Fayoum, the Black Desert, and the White Desert. We could not have done any of this without our local guide Ahmed Wahba who may or may not have slept the entire trip to get us the shots we needed.
Although Egypt is known for the Pyramids, the country was much more diverse and the eclectic landscapes we encountered made it my favorite travel destination. I hope this video captures how incredible Egypt truly is!
THE BEAUTIFUL DESTINATIONS TEAM:
Chris Shepherd | Filmmaker & Editor instagram.com/cshep
Jake Irish | Filmmaker instagram.com/jakeirish_
Ben Mikha | Filmmaker instagram.com/benmikha
Cory Martin | Filmmaker instagram.com/cory.s.martin
Matias De Rada | Filmmaker instagram.com/matiasderada
Ahmed Wahba | Guide instagram.com/projectwahba
MUSIC:
Hamza Namira ft. Eftekasat - Dar Ya Dar
Egzod - Talisman @egzodmusic
Hey! Antoine Janssens here. Since I was a kid I’ve been fascinated by the wildlife around us. I watch a lot of wildlife documentaries and the beauty that they display still shocks me all the time.
The vision that I have about this sensitive topic is quite simple:
« Look at the beauty of this animal evolving in the wild. We must protect it if we want our children to see it the way we do. »
People protect what they love.
The goal of this movie is to show the beauty of the Okavango Delta and the magnificence of these species living their best life in the wild. And honestly, it's also good to see a place where humans don't have control over it.
I hope this movie will touch you deep in your heart (or just a little bit it’s quite ok 🙂). Let me know what you think in the comments, I’ll be there!
And finally THANK YOU VERY MUCH @Beautifuldestinations for making this possible!
CREATOR
Antoine Janssens | Director, Filmmaker, Editor & Sound design
youtube.com/c/antoinejanssensofficial
instagram.com/antoinejans
CAST
Okwa | Master Guide
Batani | Assistant Guide
MUSIC
You will find your happiness on: http://share.mscbd.fm/antoinejans
A whisper in the wind, a silence in the stars. Western Mongolia contained a humble beauty, a powerful vastness that’s lure only strengthened as time went on. Nainoa and I (I being Sam Potter) spent two weeks in the province of Bayan-Olgii getting to know the Kazakh eagle hunters who call these lands home. Every day started with the soft blue glow of dawn on our window, the rattle of a bitter wind trying to force its way in, and the fleeting moment of courage it took to remove oneself from the warm bundle of animal skins that made up our beds on the floor. Of course, that was nothing compared to the walk to the outhouse, or for that matter, being in the outhouse, which was four almost waist-high walls surrounding a hole in the ground. Here you’d walk out onto a plank of wood, pop a squat, and decide whether to stick your head up into the icy wind and away from the stench, or hunker down in the sweet sweet smell of warmth. I usually chose warmth, however, Nainoa said he preferred to brave the cold. After that, we’d saddle up and head off into the snow-capped countryside, from this point there are 100 stories I could tell you. Stories of snowstorms and wolves, adventures and eagle hunts, and of deliriousness and hysterical behavior. But the one I’d like to share, although a bit meek in comparison, holds great importance for both myself and the film. After a very long and very cold day, the sun was just starting to set as we returned home. Nainoa and I dismounted our horses and stumbled into the house after our host Esker. The fire was warm, the milk tea was hot, and the house was alive with the hustle and bustle of a mother's work. The young eagle huntresses, Igerim and Igerkh, had been with us shooting all day but were quick to shed their fur coats and help their mother. Nainoa and I were commanded to sit and drink our tea, but soon Nainoa Snuck off to upload footage, and I quietly started peeling potatoes. Tonight Aklut (Esker the eagle hunter’s wife) along with their 4 daughters were preparing a very important and delicious traditional dish, dumplings, and they were freaking amazing, but the reason this night was so special wasn’t because of the dumplings, but because of the friendships that were born. Barriers Were broken and true personalities came out. We laughed, played silly games and had staring contests. We cracked jokes, shared music, and ended up turning this quiet little brick house tucked far away amongst the Altai mountains into a full-blown dance party. These kinds of nights are the heart of everything to me, they’re why I do what I do, and they’re also the moments I’ll never be able to adequately share... no amount of words or cameras can capture them, and distracting myself with trying would be a shame. They’re little rays of pure light that shine through and remind me that we’re all connected, that we can communicate without ever speaking the same language and we can love someone we don't even know. I like to think that these moments are at the heart of our films, that although they can never be captured, they can be felt, that they guide, shape, and direct the stories we tell. Esker said to us at the end of the night that “we are good tourists, and that he knows we traveled far, but he hopes we come back one day, in the summer, and when we have families of our own”.
CREATORS:
Sam Potter | Writer, Director & Host | instagram.com/captainpotter
Nainoa Langer | Director of Photography, Editor & Sound Design instagram.com/nainoalanger
CAST OF EAGLE HUNTERS:
Boushkhan
Esker
Igerim & Igerkh
TEAM
Tom Jauncey | Beautiful Destinations | Executive Producer instagram.com/tomjauncey
Alan Potter | Copy Editor instagram.com/mr_uncle_al…
Eternal Landscapes | Fixer eternal-landscapes.co.uk
SPECIAL THANKS
We would like to give a special thank you to our friends at Eternal Landscapes for creating such a unique experience that lifts up, preserves, and respects the people and lands of Mongolia. If You ever plan on visiting, they’ll make sure you can do so responsibly and sustainably.
eternal-landscapes.co.uk
MUSIC
NAI does all the sound design, makes his own music, and remixes tracks to fit our film | open.spotify.com/artist/3xEGTvg3bZg8nf1yzOeobW?si=JFAJ_QjPTtW9aEuZz6vV0Q
NIck Caves & Warren Ellis (NAI REMIX) | “The proposition #2& Happy Lands”
The Brian Jonestown Massacre | “Anemone”
Tony Anderson | “Dwell”
The HU (NAI REMIX) | “The Great Chinggis Khaan”
The Grand National Orchestra of Mongolia | “Mongolian Steppe Melody”
Lumineers (NAI REMIX) | “Sleep On The Floor”
Palm Oil WWF Scorecard for Brands: palmoilscorecard.panda.org/check-the-scores/all
To help choose RSPO Products: rspo.org/members/trademark/trademark-products-gallery
Video by: JR Alli
youtube.com/c/jralli
instagram.com/jralli23
Shot in Collaboration with: Jake Irish
youtube.com/user/jakeirish8641
instagram.com/jakeirish_/?hl=en
Executive Producer: Tom Jauncey
instagram.com/tomjauncey
Producer: Conny Lechner
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Consider donating to the Organizations that we worked closely with:
OIC (Orangutan Information Centre):
orangutancentre.org/donate
instagram.com/orangutaninformationcentre
Haka Sumatra NGO & FKL Rangers:
haka.or.id/?page_id=1049
instagram.com/haka_sumatra
haka.or.id/?page_id=1022
Farwiza Farhan:
instagram.com/wiiiiza


