“Discover Why ‘People We Meet on Vacation’ Rivals ‘When Harry Met Sally'”

Emily Henry, a Cincinnati native and bestselling author, is set to bring her novel “People We Meet on Vacation” to life on screen. This film adaptation debuts on January 9, 2024, on Netflix. The book, released in 2021, has captivated readers, earning a place on the New York Times Best Sellers List for an impressive 56 weeks.

Overview of “People We Meet on Vacation”

“People We Meet on Vacation” is a romantic comedy that follows best friends Poppy and Alex. Despite their contrasting personalities—Poppy is a vibrant New York travel writer, while Alex is a reserved teacher from Ohio—the two have vacationed together annually for ten years. Their friendship faces a turning point following an incident in Croatia two years prior, leading to a communication breakdown. Poppy proposes one last trip to mend their friendship.

Inspiration Behind the Novel

Connecting Her Personal Experiences

Henry’s writing resonates with readers partly due to her own life experiences. She relates more to Poppy, explaining that writing this character offered both therapeutic moments and a deep dive into personal imperfections. “I think those are the most interesting characters,” she stated, highlighting how flawed characters resonate with audiences.

Setting and Travel Themes

• Henry has included locations like Vancouver and Tuscany in the book.
• Parts of the fictional settings are inspired by Cincinnati suburbs.
• The book reflects a desire for escapism, appealing to readers’ wanderlust.

The travel component of the story draws from Henry’s personal travels and her desire to create a fun, adventurous narrative. She emphasized the book’s escapist nature, reflecting the local enthusiasm for exploration and adventure.

COVID-19 Concerns and Reader Reception

When the book was released amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Henry was concerned that readers might resist themes of travel and exploration. However, she noted that the book has provided a virtual escape for readers as they navigated the challenges of isolation. The timing of its release coincided with a renewed interest in social connections as people began to travel again.

With the film adaptation approaching, “People We Meet on Vacation” stands as a testament to friendship and the enduring spirit of adventure, making it a noteworthy rival to “When Harry Met Sally…” as audiences seek heartfelt stories amid their own journeys.