Forget the binary between fiction and paper guide, because the real question is how people plan their trips, and it is never simple.
Tourist guides are not just a component of initial inspiration; they are an anchor point essential for turning a dream into reality, even as they evolve.
A guide can be the first step to materialize the desire born from a film, by providing practical information missing from fiction.
Imagine a patient inspired by a documentary on meditation in India; a guide will give him addresses of ashrams, visa formalities, and local transportation means that the film does not cover, which is crucial before booking a ticket.