
Emmy Award-winning drama The White Lotus has returned for another season of debauchery and drama. After seasons set in Hawaii and Sicily, the hit series is now bringing its signature blend of luxury, dark comedy and social satire to the sparkling shores of Thailand. With filming locations across Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui, season three promises to be as captivating as the first two.
In honour of the most recent season, this is our guide on how to have your own The White Lotus experience in Thailand.
Plan your itinerary for Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui
Living your The White Lotus fantasies begins with crafting the perfect itinerary. Season three is set in the bustling streets of Bangkok, the pristine shores of Phuket and the dreamy island of Koh Samui. Enjoy both island and city life by visiting all three destinations on your trip: start with a few days in Bangkok, visiting Michelin-starred restaurants and rooftop bars, then unwind on the palm-fringed sands of Koh Samui and explore Phuket’s vibrant markets and secluded coves.
Check into ultra-luxurious hotels
The White Lotus is all about treating yourself, and Thailand has plenty of opulent resorts where you can do just that. Start at Capella Bangkok, an ultra-luxurious escape on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Indulge in Michelin-starred dining at Côte by Mauro Colagreco, graze on a lavish afternoon tea spread at Tea Lounge and unwind at the world-class spa. Move on to a serene seaside stay at Kimpton Kitalay Samui, an IHG Hotel, sipping retro tiki-style cocktails on the sand. Then head west to COMO Point Yamu, overlooking the turquoise waters of Phuket’s Phang Nga Bay. Start your day like your favourite characters with a buffet breakfast of tropical fruits, fresh pastries and fluffy eggs, before lazing by the cliffside infinity pool.
Have your Tanya moment at the resort spa
Say what you will about The White Lotus‘ eccentric heiress Tanya McQuoid (played by Jennifer Coolidge), she knows how to unwind in style. Treat yourself to a Thai massage or embrace your inner Tanya with a full day of pampering. Many of Thailand’s luxury resorts are home to world-class day spas where you can enjoy dreamy moments in a private pavilion by the water, high up in the hills or surrounded by lush tropical gardens. In Bangkok, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok is home to the renowned BDMS Wellness Clinic, which offers preventative and holistic therapies; in Phuket, five-star Amatara Welleisure Resort offers a half-day package including a detoxifying herbal steam, exfoliating body scrub, soothing wrap and bespoke massage.
Take a sunset cruise around the islands
Sail past dazzling limestone karsts and lush coastal forests on a sunset boat cruise around some of the world’s most-loved islands. Unlike Tanya’s fateful sailing on the Ionian Sea, you’ll be bound for tranquillity and beauty. Whether crossing the sparkling Gulf of Thailand off Koh Samui or exploring stunning Phang Nga Bay from Phuket, enjoy panoramic views as the sun sets behind the horizon. Sip champagne and tropical cocktails or swim in crystal-clear waters while watching the sky light up in a kaleidoscope of colour.
Indulge in a special dinner by candlelight
Nothing says luxury like a candlelit dinner on the shore of a pristine private beach. Toast to your lavish escape with your partner, family or friends as you tuck into fresh seafood, premium grilled meats or authentic Thai cuisine with your toes in the sand. If you’re seeking romance, InterContinental Koh Samui Resort offers a five-course dinner under a fabric-laden cabana on a private beach – with fairy-floss skies and the gentle lapping waves as your backdrop, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.
Feature image: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui.