Checkmate Destinations Fit For a Queen
Capturing the imagination of viewers from around the world, who would have thought that one of the top viewed series of the last few months would be a coming of age period drama about chess? Starting in the mid-1950s and working its way into the 60s, the series follows the triumphs and tribulations of an orphaned chess prodigy on her quest to become the best chess player in the world, taking her to incredible destinations in every corner of the globe.
According to our research, two-fifths (40%)* of global travelers are inspired to travel to a destination because of what they saw in a movie or TV show. With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, we share five checkmate destinations fit for a Queen's Gambit, whenever it’s safe to travel again.
Paris
The series kicks off in the charming French capital. Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Notre-Dame cathedral, Paris has always been on many travelers’ bucket lists. With so many incredible sights on offer, it’s not surprising that Paris is highly endorsed by Booking.com travelers for sightseeing, architecture and city walks.
Where to stay: Located in central Paris, The Chess Hotel is a design hotel offering guests a glam glimpse into the world of chess. The black and white squares from the board can be found throughout the property - from the hotel lobby to the bathrooms, and guests are even invited to play a game of chess by the cozy fire in the lobby. Its central location offers great opportunities for guests to explore the city by foot and visit some of the city’s highlights. The hotel is just a short walk away from Opéra Metro Station, which provides direct access to the Louvre Museum.
Las Vegas
In episode three, the lead character heads to Sin City to play in her first U.S. Chess Championship. Surrounded by desert and decadence, this lively city is a one-of-a-kind experience. The Las Vegas Strip is not to miss, with many luxury (casino) hotels and music performance venues located along its iconic neon-lit streets. Las Vegas is also a great destination for food lovers, with countless options ranging from familiar mainstream chain restaurants to world-class fine dining. Vegas has something truly tempting in store for all tastes.
Where to stay: Marriott's Grand Chateau is centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip with retro styled rooms that will transport guests back in time to the era in which the show is set. The luxury rooms offer comfort to all guests, and panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip can be enjoyed from several rooms. Guests can also order some snacks in the well designed Lobby Bar and enjoy sunset views of the Strip from the rooftop Sky Bar.
Mexico City
The series also follows the lead character as she travels to Mexico City to attend another international chess tournament. Known for its grand architecture and beautiful old town filled with history, it’s no surprise that it’s endorsed by our travelers for culture, city walks and history. The city is also highly endorsed for food, with fifty regional cuisines from across the country feeding in to the city's cosmopolitan and cutting-edge dining scene - a perfect getaway to indulge in local culture in many ways!
Where to stay: When entering Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico, the black and white tiles on the floor immediately give the impression of standing on a lifesize chess board. The classy hotel interior with historic elements also sends guests back in time to a swanky elegance of the mid 20th century. This historic hotel is located in Juarez, Mexico City's Pink Zone, with many shops, restaurants and attractions in the nearby area.
Moscow
Russia’s capital city is the setting for the climatic final episode, where the lead character competes against the world's best and most serious chess players. According to our endorsement data, Moscow is highly recommended for sightseeing. Travelers will be amazed by all the incredible historical sights the city has to offer and for those eager to learn more about chess, a visit to Moscow’s Chess Museum is worth a visit.
Where to stay: Located opposite of the Chess Museum, Russo-Balt Hotel is a perfect stay for travelers to easily explore the city. The elegant building dates back to 1876, giving guests the ultimate feeling of staying in a piece of history. The hotel features Art Nouveau-style rooms with high ceilings and large windows that offer amazing views of Moscow. The nearby metro station gives visitors access to easily visit other city highlights such as the Kremlin and Red Square.
Berlin
While in the series, the lead character travels to amazing places all around the world, most of the actual filming locations were in Berlin, Germany. While the city has a rich history with many famous and historic sights, including Checkpoint Charlie and the iconic Brandenburg Gate, Booking.com travelers also highly endorse Berlin for its alternative culture and modern art. Not only was the city apparently a great backdrop for this dramatic, chess-inspired miniseries, but it also has a vibrant culture and nightlife all its own, making it a great choice for travelers of any age.
Where to stay: Within walking distance from the Bode Museum, one of the main filming locations of the show, Nook Rooms & Apartments offers its guests a stylish and convenient stay in Berlin. The property is centrally located in the heart of the Mitte district and offers modern and fully-furnished apartments of various sizes with easy access to public transportation, making it handy for guests to travel and explore any part of the city that tickles their fancy.
__________________
*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 47,728 respondents across 28 markets (1,997 from USA, 1,987 from Canada, 1,999 from Mexico, 2,003 from Colombia, 1,996 from Brazil, 2,002 from Argentina, 1,994 from Australia, 985 from New Zealand, 1,993 from Spain, 1,993 from Italy, 1,993 from France, 1,984 from UK, 1,989 from Germany, 1,977 from Netherlands, 983 from Denmark, 986 from Sweden, 998 from Croatia, 1,997 from Russia, 999 from Israel, 1,997 from India, 1,992 from China, 991 from Hong Kong, 1,991 from Thailand, 1,977 from Singapore, 998 from Taiwan, 953 from Vietnam, 1,990 from South Korea, 1,987 from Japan). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled at least once in the past 12 months and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place in November 2020.