«The White Lotus» sparks tourism boom in Koh Samui
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Mar 15
- 4 min read
The picturesque island of Koh Samui, Thailand, has experienced a significant surge in tourism interest following the premiere of HBO's «The White Lotus» Season 3 on February 16, 2025.
The show's latest season, set against the backdrop of Koh Samui's stunning landscapes, has captivated audiences worldwide, leading to a notable increase in travel inquiries and bookings.
Challenging conditions
«The White Lotus» was filmed across several locations in Thailand, including Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui. The production received a $4.4 million tax incentive for choosing Thailand as its filming destination. Filming began in February 2024 and concluded in August 2024.
The cast and crew faced according The Times challenging conditions during production. Actress Parker Posey, who portrays Victoria Ratliff, described filming at a luxurious Thai resort as an «endurance test» due to intense heat and encounters with wildlife.
Similarly, actor Jason Isaacs, playing Tim Ratliff, sustained an injury while filming a yacht scene, highlighting the demanding nature of the shoot.
Rise in accommodation searches and bookings
According to Agoda, accommodation searches for Koh Samui have risen by 12% since the show's release. This uptick is complemented by a 40% increase in luxury hotel bookings, indicating a growing desire among travelers to experience the island's upscale offerings. Similarly, Hotels.com has reported a 65% surge in searches for Koh Samui, particularly from U.S. tourists, highlighting the show's impact on the American audience.
By the end of each day, we’re just caked in sweat and makeup. You can peel your clothes off with a trowel. It melts your fillings. Jason Isaacs Portrays Timothy Ratliff
A central attraction
A focal point of this renewed interest is the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, which served as a primary filming location for the series. The resort's luxurious villas and breathtaking views have enticed fans eager to immerse themselves in the ambiance portrayed on screen. In response to the heightened demand, Four Seasons has introduced an exclusive 20-day private jet experience inspired by «The White Lotus,» encompassing visits to filming locations across four continents, including Koh Samui. Priced at $188,000, this lavish journey is scheduled for May 2026.
The heat was pretty intense. In my first scene I wore a long-sleeved dress and they needed a hairdryer between takes because the sweat shows through. Parker Posey Portrays Victoria Ratliff
Koh Samui's tourism landscape
Koh Samui has long been a sought-after destination, celebrated for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions. The island offers a range of experiences, from tranquil retreats to lively nightlife, catering to various traveler preferences. The recent spotlight from «The White Lotus» has further amplified its appeal, drawing attention to both its natural beauty and luxury accommodations.
Economic implications
The surge in interest is poised to benefit Koh Samui's local economy, particularly the hospitality and service sectors. As international travel continues to rebound, the island is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum, attracting tourists seeking the idyllic settings showcased in the series. Local businesses anticipate sustained growth, with the potential for increased employment opportunities and infrastructure development to accommodate the rising influx of visitors.
Key facts about the series
The White Lotus is an American satirical comedy-drama television series created by Mike White for HBO. The show follows the lives of wealthy guests and hotel staff at luxury resorts, exposing themes of privilege, power, and morality through dark humor and social commentary.
First premiered: July 11, 2021, on HBO
Seasons: 2 (with a third season set for 2025)
Setting: Each season takes place at a different fictional White Lotus resort:
Season 1: Hawaii (Filmed at Four Seasons Resort Maui)
Season 2: Sicily, Italy (Filmed at Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, Taormina)
Season 3: Thailand (filmed across several locations in Thailand, including Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui)
Notable cast members:
Season 1: Jennifer Coolidge, Murray Bartlett, Alexandra Daddario, Jake Lacy
Season 2: Jennifer Coolidge, Aubrey Plaza, F. Murray Abraham, Theo James
Awards: Won multiple Emmy Awards, including Best Limited Series and acting awards for Jennifer Coolidge and Murray Bartlett.
The series is praised for its sharp writing, social critique, and unpredictable twists, making it one of HBO’s most popular recent shows.
Season 3 of «The White Lotus» has begun airing on HBO. The season premiered on February 16, 2025, and continues to release new episodes weekly. The upcoming Episode 4, titled «Hide or Seek,» is scheduled to air on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/PT on HBO and will also be available for streaming on Max.
This season is set in Thailand and features a new ensemble cast, including Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Sarah Catherine Hook, Jason Isaacs, Lalisa Manobal, Michelle Monaghan, Sam Nivola, Lek Patravadi, Parker Posey, Natasha Rothwell, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Tayme Thapthimthong, Aimee Lou Wood, and Jon Gries.
The third season consists of eight episodes, with new episodes airing every Sunday at 9:00 PM ET/PT. The season has received critical acclaim, holding a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 77 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.
Key facts about Koh Samui
Location: Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Bangkok
Size: Approximately 228.7 km²
Population: Around 70,000 residents
Tourism: One of Thailand’s most popular islands, with millions of visitors annually
Beaches: Famous for Chaweng, Lamai, Maenam, and Lipa Noi
Climate: Tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from September to November
Natural Attractions: Ang Thong National Marine Park, Na Muang Waterfalls, Secret Buddha Garden
Cultural Sites: Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), Wat Plai Laem, Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, hiking, and vibrant nightlife
Transport: Served by Samui International Airport, ferries connect to the mainland and nearby islands
