White Lotus is back this week, bringing its heady combo of scandal and satire to our screens once more. But as travel lovers, we're wondering one thing: are the hotels worth the hype?
Indeed, in the second season of the show, we saw the deluxe San Domenico Palace in Taormina taking centre stage as the anthology series' main location – and that's a toughie to beat. The White Lotus hotel in Sicily feels Audrey Hepburn-inspired. It features a picturesque town, rocky beaches, and views of Italy's iconic active volcano, Mount Etna – not to mention the enticing Tyrrhenian Sea. And that's not even mentioning the sea-view rooms, Mediterranean vibes and clifftop setting of this former monastery-turned-hotel.
As for the real White Lotus hotel featured in season three (starting Monday 17th February 2025 on Sky Atlantic), it too is a luxury hotel, this time in Thailand. It offers beautiful beaches and truly paradisical scenes in abundance – so much so that we could even picture the queen herself (Jennifer Coolidge of course) holidaying here. But how does it measure up to the hotels showcased in previous seasons? Here we look at the realities of the resort, and a few more White Lotus-inspired properties...
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Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Best for: Die-hard White Lotus fans
The Four Seasons Hotel is the main filming location for White Lotus. The real-life resort is all about laid-back luxury living, with a beautiful view to boot. It's a direct juxtapostion to the struggles of the staff in the television series – where we see money flouted to excess by the rich in the most beautiful place, while the story of the people behind the scenes is in complete contrast. But that doesn't detract from what an unforgettable experience the hotel promises its guests.
There's the breezy, palm tree-fringed setting, the all-pool villas, and unrivalled panoramas across the Gulf of Thailand. We especially can't get enough of the views from the infinity pool. From breakfast to dinner, all meals are lovingly curated by in-house culinary experts, all with sustainability in mind, while the hotel's Secret Garden Spa is the perfect place for some R&R. But what we love most about the property is that you're within easy reach of Angthong National Marine Park – a place of rainforest-clad islands and a kaleidoscopic world beneath the waves.
Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas
Best for: A more offbeat 'as seen on screen' experience
Another official 'White Lotus hotel', some filming for season three took place in the Anantara Mai Khao, located in Phuket – specifically doubling as the show's Wellness Sanctuary and Belinda’s Room. And while the Four Seasons may seem the obvious choice, here you'll experience secluded serenity, and a touch of Hollywood glamour to boot.
With 83 pool villas, 30 pavilions and 70 suites, the resort is made for both families and couples alike, flanked by a seemingly unending stretch of golden beach. It feels like a jungle-rich oasis, where you can enjoy sundowners amid the treetops or try some yoga on the beach at dawn. Its award-winning Anantara Spa should not be missed, not to mention its celebrated Tree House restaurant for dining and drinking.
Centara Reserve Koh Samui
Best for: Lovers of the TV series who don't need to stay in exactly the same place
While the White Lotus wasn't filmed here, this is an example where the vibes are undeniably similar. In fact, we reckon the 'White Lotus effect' will be felt throughout much of Thailand this year, thanks to the show's exposure of the Land of Smiles' decadent, yet affordable hotel options.
What we love most about the Centara Reserve Koh Samui is its Reserve Host Butler Service, where guests will have a dedicated butler for unparalleled luxury. They'll get to know you, your favourite foods, drinks and locales, so they can anticpate your every whim, and tailor your ultimate experience. And let's not forget the luscious infinity pool too, with uninterrupted views across the tranquil Chaweng Beach and the majestic ocean and isles beyond.
Melia Koh Samui
Best for: More affordable prices
Of our four decadant White Lotus hotel options, the Melia is certainly the best for the price-conscious among us. However, that doesn't mean this seaside resort skimps. Located on the peaceful Choeng Mon Beach and flanked by wild vegetation, this is still a thoroughly indulgent 5-star luxury resort, with premium rooms and delicious daily breakfast available at its onsite Koko Kitchen. You'll be surprised to learn that some of the rooms even have a bath on the balcony - bliss!
But it's the pool that calls for honourable mention. It feels like a winding road, meandering amid deckchairs, bars and guestrooms to create a real feeling of seclusion - there's always a quiet spot or cosy enclave in which to truly get immersed in your trip and let your worries drift away...
Feeling White Lotus-inspired? When you're not busy watching the show, check out our range of Thailand holidays or chat with a Travel Expert about booking your island getaway.
UK Content & Social Lead