In recent years, no television series has created as much buzz among luxury travel enthusiasts as “The White Lotus.” Seasons one and two of the show, written and directed by Mike White, were set in luxury resorts in Hawaii and Sicily. Season three, on HBO and Max, took viewers to Thailand – a top travel destination in the world.
The star-studded cast of season 3 of "The White Lotus" not only includes familiar Hollywood names such as Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan, Jason Isaacs, Leslie Bibb, Walton Goggins, Parker Posey, and Patrick Schwarzenegger, but also makes waves with the presence of Lalisa "Lisa" Manobal - a famous K-pop star from Thailand.
Season 3 cast Morgana O'Reilly, Arnas Fedaravičius, Christian Friedel, Dom Hetrakul and Lalisa Manobal
But beyond this cast, it is the stunning landscapes of Thailand that truly become the captivating “heroes”. As the story unfolds in the idyllic landscapes of Koh Samui, Bangkok and Phuket, these locations become the perfect stage sets, elevating the viewer’s experience.
Journey to discover Thailand through luxury resorts
In response to fans' expectations, HBO has officially announced the list of prominent filming locations for season three. This is a great opportunity for audiences and tourists to plan their own journey, immersing themselves in the luxurious and mysterious space that bears the mark of "The White Lotus".
Koh Samui – paradise beach
Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island after Phuket, is famous for its pristine white sand beaches and luxury resorts, many of which appear in the film. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui features private pool villas, communal pools, promenades and gyms, including the Ratliff family villa, where Victoria (Parker Posey) delivers many memorable lines.
Koh Samui is the country's second largest island after Phuket.
Many high-end resorts are located in this area.
The Four Seasons is the scene of all the morning and afternoon activities at the restaurant, providing a classy culinary space. Meanwhile, the familiar "White Lotus" bar is actually the Singing Bird Lounge at Anantara Lawana Resort, an ideal destination for mysterious encounters. The security area and entrance, where security guard Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) appears, belongs to Anantara Bophut, which is also the setting for the luxury jewelry store.
Part three of "White Lotus" was filmed mainly on the island of Koh Samui.
The resort villas are also carefully invested. Greg/Gary's villa is a unique blend of Samujana Villa 12 in Samui and Villa Amaravida in Phuket, creating a luxurious and unique living space.
Various locations were used to create the series' resort hotel.
Not only stopping at resorts, "The White Lotus" also takes the audience to explore the cultural features and natural beauty of Thailand. The temple that opens the Ratliff family's trip is Wat Phu Khao Thong, located near the peaceful Maenam beach. One of the most humorous and memorable scenes in episode 4 is the vibrant Songkran water festival at Fisherman's Village, recreating the bustling traditional festival atmosphere of Thailand.
Phuket - Spa and culinary paradise of season 3
Phuket, the island known for its spas and fine dining, has become one of the main enchanting settings in season three of “The White Lotus.” This southern pearl of Thailand not only offers breathtaking scenery but also witnesses many important developments in the show.
Many scenes were filmed in Phuket to highlight this leg of the journey.
Notably, the Pavilion spa located on the lagoon of Anantara Mai Khao Resort is where the opening and closing scenes of the season take place, creating a space full of relaxation but no less dramatic. This is also the private pool villa, Villa 42 - where the character Belinda rests, promising unexpected developments.
In season three, Natasha Rothwell returns to action as beloved spa worker Belinda
Meanwhile, the lavish, eye-catching dinners were filmed at Ta Khai restaurant at Rosewood Phuket, a venue renowned for its fine dining.
Bangkok – the high note of the journey
As the journey of "The White Lotus" season 3 enters its climax, Bangkok emerges as an impressive uplifting note, separating from the tranquility of the islands to take the audience into a more vibrant and mysterious space. This is where the character Rick decides to split from the group, seeking out his old friend Frank (played by Sam Rockwell) for a profound monologue about his experience in Thailand. These emotional scenes were recorded at the famous Bamboo Bar of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a symbol of luxury and history in Bangkok.
Rick and Frank then continue their journey by meeting Jim Hollinger (Scott Glenn) – the owner of White Lotus Sritala – at a charming canalside villa. This setting is actually Siri Sala Private Thai Villa, a luxurious six-room villa located on the Bangkok Noi canal, offering a close-up look at the high-class lifestyle hidden in the heart of the capital.
As night fell, the atmosphere became even more frenzied with the gala dinner scenes filmed at the Sing Sing Theater on Sukhumvit Road, a venue renowned for its unique and enchanting entertainment space. At the end of a tumultuous night, Rick and Frank returned to the Mandarin Oriental, walking through the magnificent lobby to continue the party in the 376-square-meter Oriental Suite, a lavish space that reflects the hotel's superior class. Bangkok in "The White Lotus" is not just a city but also a grand stage where secrets are exposed and relationships are pushed to the peak.
Mandarin Hotel is one of the filming locations that left a strong impression in part 3 of the movie.
Since the confirmation of season three filming in Thailand in early 2024, experts and media have predicted a surge in tourism. Thapanee Kiatphaibool - Director General of Tourism Thailand once said: "We are honored that Amazing Thailand has been chosen as the setting for the next season of "The White Lotus". The beautiful nature, rich heritage and diverse landscapes are the perfect platform to promote culture, quality cuisine, wellness and typical Thai hospitality."
Many travel agencies and resorts have launched White Lotus-themed tours. Thailand's tourism in 2024 welcomed over 35 million international visitors, bringing in over 1.8 trillion baht ($53.5 billion), and this year's target is 39-40 million arrivals with revenue of 3 trillion baht, returning to pre-pandemic levels.
