Step into ‘The White Lotus’ Fantasy

The latest season of “The White Lotus”, now streaming on the HBO, may be a fictional tale spun by the American writer and filmmaker Mike White, but its breathtaking Thai locations are as real—and as indulgent—as they come.

The third season is expected to be spicier than the earlier seasons since the drama is set in Thailand. This season's cast includes Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan, Jason Isaacs, Leslie Bibb, Walton Goggins, and Thailand's very own K-pop superstar, Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal.

The latest episodes of “The White Lotus” weave a slow-burning tale of wealth, spirituality, and moral decay, where every setting plays a role in the drama.

But beyond the show’s melodrama, its filming locations tell a different story— that Thailand is one of best places for pure escapism. From Koh Samui’s ultra-luxe retreats to Phuket’s breathtaking coastline and Bangkok’s timeless elegance, the country invites you to step into your own jet-set fantasy.

If you’re looking for a journey filled with the same allure and escapism as “The White Lotus”, here’s where to begin.

Koh Samui: In the Lap of Luxury

Koh Samui is more than the backdrop for “The White Lotus”. This tropical Island in the Gulf of Thailand is at the center of the series, a tropical paradise of luxury and understated intrigue.

At its center is the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, renamed the luxury White Lotus Resort & Spa in the series.

With its villas perched on the hillside, infinity pools, swaying palms and dramatic ocean vistas, it provides the backdrop for both stunning beauty and seething tension.

However, the Four Seasons isn't the only star.

The Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort makes its mark with the striking Singing Bird Lounge, an elegant setting for some of the show’s most memorable moments.

Photo: Singing Bird Lounge – a moody, elegant backdrop for some of the series’ most unforgettable moments.//Photo: Courtesy of Anantara

Over at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui, the grand lobby and an exclusive high-end jewelry boutique add layers of refinement to the show’s opulent world.

Step beyond the luxury hotels and resort, and Koh Samui’s breathtaking landscapes steal the spotlight.

Choeng Mon Beach, for example, epitomizes bliss under the tropical sun, framed by swaying coconut palms. Meanwhile, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park—once featured in Alex Garland’s “The Beach”—stands in for Koh Pha-ngan’s famous Haad Rin Beach, home to the island’s legendary Full Moon parties.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, with its breathtaking seascapes, invites adventure seekers to indulge in sea excursions and scuba diving.//Photo: Courtesy of TAT

Phuket: Sun-Kissed Intrigue

Phuket's sun-kissed shores and secluded retreats bring an extra layer of fascination to “The White Lotus”, with indulgence enhanced by mystery.

At the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Resort, the program's spa shots occur in surroundings of pure peacefulness, surrounded by tropical garden and pavilions in the great outdoors.

Nestled in a lush tropical setting, this Thai spa retreat offers pure serenity and relaxation.//Photo: Courtesy of Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Resort

And at Ta Khai at Rosewood Phuket, rustic luxury offers the stage for intimate table moments, surrounded by lanterns and ocean breezes.

However, relaxation only comes on the menu.

Bangla Boxing Stadium in Patong Beach provides a large dose of raw, local energy and the way of Muay Thai. Across town from the popular resort community lies the peaceful, well-kept secret Ya Nui Beach, offering a slice of tropical paradise and tranquility.

On the southern tip of Phuket, Ya Nui Beach is a quiet escape where time slows, and the only sound is the gentle rhythm of the waves.//Photo: Phoowadon Duangmee

For a taste of the high seas, Phuket Yacht Haven Marina is the undisputed star, showcasing the island's luxury yacht lifestyle.

The lesser-known Koh Lawa Yai Island, situated in Phang Nga Bay, is one of the series' most picturesque island locations.

Bangkok: A Taste of Gilded Glamor

No holiday in Thailand would be complete without a visit to Bangkok, and “The White Lotus” maximizes the capital's brilliance.

The iconic Mandarin Oriental Bangkok gives an urbane, bygone atmosphere to the series; finest moments. With afternoon tea, and the urban bustle energizing the streets, Bangkok proves to be a nice counterbalance to the series' island seclusion.