Romantic films are inspiring staycation bookings Stephen ScourfieldThe West AustralianWed, 11 February 2026 10:48AMEmail Stephen Scourfield
We’re in a surprisingly romantic era — from screen to reality, according to IHG Hotels and Resorts.
From Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie to The Drama with Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, there are big love stories in the movies.
And new research commissioned by IHG shows that:
+ Nearly 40 per cent of the Australians surveyed feel more motivated to spend quality time with a partner after watching a romantic film or television show.
+ There are stronger responses among women (41 per cent) than men (38 per cent).
+ And the intention is even stronger among younger audiences — with 56 per cent of gen Z valuing that quality time and 51 per cent of millennials.
This emotional lift is turning into action, says a spokesperson for IHG:
+ 24 per cent of all respondents say they’ve recently searched for accommodation or getaway ideas based on this.
+ This is led by men (25 per cent) over women (23 per cent).
An IHG spokesperson says: “These films aren’t just sparking conversation, they’re sparking action.
“When audiences leave the cinema, they’re craving connection, escapism and a change of scenery, and increasingly they’re turning that feeling into short breaks and staycations closer to home.”
VALENTINE’S DAY
As Valentine’s Day approaches, IHG Hotels & Resorts is spotlighting a collection of indulgent, romance-driven packages across Australia that could bring what it calls the “post-movie effect” to life:
+ InterContinental Sydney
InterContinental Sydney is at 117 Macquarie Street, near Circular Quay. It has the “Luxury Sydney Suite Experience”, with two nights in a luxury suite with champagne on arrival, daily breakfast, signature cocktails at Aster Bar, and late checkout. It is from $3856 for two nights on February 14 to 16, 2026.
InterContinental Sydney is also celebrating Valentine’s Day with:
A half-dozen freshly shucked oysters and two glasses of champagne for $80 per person at The Treasury. And the “Signature Experience at Aster Rooftop Bar”, including half-dozen oysters and two glasses of champagne for $99 per person.
sydney.intercontinental.com
+ InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula
In the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula has “A Taste of Discovery” — a two-night minimum stay paired with daily breakfast at CeeCee’s Dining Room, a three-course dining experience for two at Point Leo Estate with a local wine progression, a premium wine tasting, access to the renowned Sculpture Park and complimentary parking. It is from $1984 for two nights on February 14-16. sorrento.intercontinental.com/offer/taste-of-discovery
+ InterContinental Perth City Centre
The “In-Room Champagne and Caviar Experience for Two” includes 10 grams of Siberian Black Pearl caviar served with blinis, lemon and crème fraiche, paired with a 375mL bottle of Laurent Perrier Champagne for $170, with the option to upgrade to a 750mL bottle for an additional $60. It is available daily throughout February from 5pm to 10pm.
ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/perth/perha/hoteldetail
+ voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley
voco Kirkton Park Hunter Valley is set in 28ha of manicured gardens with countryside views in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales. The “Hunter Luxe Experience” features a Signature Suite stay, private helicopter experience, heart-shaped hot air balloon flight with champagne, nightly three-course dinners with matched Hunter Valley wines, high tea overlooking the rose garden and a dedicated host throughout the stay. The package is from $5800. [email protected]
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