There’s not a place on the planet left untouched by vampire mania, and whether you’re a sullen Goth, a brooding literary anti-hero or a hysterical teenager obsessed with Robert Pattison, there is a vampire niche ready and waiting for you. Some places however, have an incredibly strong link with vampires, so here are the top five places in the world where you may get bitten by the vampire bug.

Just remember, these are actual places in the real world out there – not fictional locations from teen literature or entertainment. Venture forth at your own peril — and do consider stuffing some garlic and a crucifix in your pocket, for good measure.

Forks, Washington

The unassuming town of Forks, Washington, was thrust into the spotlight in 2005 when novelist Stephanie Meyer set her vampire series of novels, Twilight, in the small city. Why Forks? Well, it holds the unfortunate unofficial title of being one of America’s least sunny and most rainy cities, the perfect climate for vampires. Since 2005 the novels have become hugely successful, with hit movies documenting the loves and losses of Bella, Edward and the gang. If you pay a visit to Forks you may be happy to find out that vampire tours of the city currently do a brisk trade, though watch out for blood-sucking fiends when out walking in the woods.

Whitby

Ever since Bram Stoker set much of Dracula in this quaint seaside resort things have gotten a little weird. The atmospheric ruins of the ancient monastery, the dark cobbled streets, and the sea mist which envelops the town at night, all contribute to a sense of dark mystery and lurking danger in this Yorkshire town. Or perhaps it is just the sight, every weekend, of all those young people dressed up as vampires and Goths walking up and down Whitby’s hills. It’s difficult to escape the overt references to Dracula at times, but if you want guaranteed sightings of vampires, or will settle for people dressed up as them, complete with fangs, then head to Whitby.

Malawi

Maybe the vampires have finally been scared away from this African nation, as in 2003 vampire fever gripped Malawi. Top government officials, including Governor Eric Chiwaya, were accused of colluding with a shady organisation of vampires to control the country’s economy, rumours that eventually culminated in riots, public stonings and personal attacks.

Transylvania, Romania

The most famous vampire destination in the world is surely Transylvania, home to that archetypal villain known as Count Dracula. Though the Dracula name was popularised in the eponymous novel by Irish author Bram Stoker, the story is allegedly based on the true life exploits of one Vlad III Dracula, a Wallachian prince of the 15th century who was said to have killed hundreds of Turks during wars with the Ottoman Empire. Whatever the truth, the Dracula image endures in this mountainous corner of Romania, with guided tours of ancient castles and spooky open-air performances of Stoker’s novel conducted nightly in certain towns. Head off to Transylvania for adventure holidays with a sinister air and a chance to come face to face with one of history’s most ruthless blood-suckers.

Louisiana

Louisiana has a rich heritage when it comes to the undead, with voodoo zombies said to populate some quarters of New Orleans. And this tradition was only bolstered when Charlaine Harris chose to set her True Blood series of novels in this alluring and mystical state. The novels have since gone on to be adapted as a successful television series, with slick, sexy vampires running amok across the state. If you visit Louisiana in order to meet one of these seductive creatures, you are best advised to head for New Orleans which is a superb venue for single holidays.

Biog: John is a writer with a passion for adventure holidays and global travel.