Whilst it may be the third season of White Lotus, it’s all about the Four Seasons who make a return as the primary setting for the titular resort. Located on Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Samui, you can expect palm fringed beaches, mountainous jungle scenery and luxury resorts. 

This season puts more of a focus on the exploration of our fictional guests’ surroundings, giving you the chance to see more of this paradise and experience some of the culture that makes this country so special. Starting off with the archipelago that is the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, a short day trip from mainland Koh Samui, this marine park is made up of 42 verdant tropical islands surrounded by an emerald oasis of lagoons and calm waters perfect for snorkelling. This location marks the arrival scene for many of the characters and our first introduction to Thailand.

It wouldn’t be a drama without long walks at sunset and where better than the iconic white powdery sands of Choengmon Beach, the predominant location for these scenes due to its more secluded location and calm turquoise waters. When it’s not coastline, it’s culture; more specifically the rich history and traditional Thai architecture on display at the Dusit Dheva Cultural Center or Buddhist temple, Wat Phu Khao Thong. These locations really do blend serenity with spirituality, offering a glimpse into a different side to Thailand.

Of course, what would the show be without a melting pot for these characters, which brings us back to the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. This grandiose retreat epitomises opulence from its hillside setting amongst the coconut groves of a secluded bay where every villa has a private pool and every day starts with yoga at sunrise or panoramic views from the infinity pool. We can expect to see a great deal of scenes shot throughout the luxury villas, manicured grounds, and fitness facilities of the White Lotus’ main body double.

Next stop, Thailand’s largest island, Phuket. An eclectic mix of what makes Thailand so great, from miles of sandy beaches and the big white buddha to streets lined with Sino-Portuguese architecture, 19th century shophouses and vibrant bars. 

With so much to offer it’s no surprise Phuket was included in season 3 of the White Lotus. Whilst the island itself doesn’t get as much screen time, there are shots of Ya Nui Beach, a hidden gem on southern tip of Phuket which highlights only some of the beauty of this location. If you never find yourself as south as Ya Nui, then Karon or Nai Harn beach are closer to Phuket town and some of the most beautiful beaches in the region.

The main star of the show in Phuket is the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, an elegant retreat set upon the golden sands of its namesake and the longest beach in Thailand. This property features distinctive southern Thai architecture and an incredible range of facilities from tennis to Thai boxing, with its crowning jewel being the spa. Set amidst lush vegetation and overlooking a lagoon filled with blossoming lotuses, it’s easy to see why this location was made the spa of choice for the White Lotus and home to fan favourite Belinda who returns for season 3.

Usually the first stop on any Thailand itinerary, the country’s capital is a sprawling cosmopolitan megalopolis known for its abundance of restaurants, bars and lively nightlife. Don’t be fooled by first impressions however, because the city is a treasure trove of culture and incredible architecture. Explore the grounds of the ornate Grand Palace, the official home to the King of Thailand before visiting Wat Pho, the site of the golden reclining buddha, one of the biggest depictions of the buddha in the world. Flowing through the heart of Bangkok is the Chao Phraya River which offers convenient boat transportation between many of the city’s attractions and upon its banks is the home to many of the luxury hotels in the capital such as the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. 

A staple property on the riverside for over 148 years, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok effortlessly combines traditional flair with modern comforts and impeccable service. With twelve bars and restaurants including a jazz bar and the Michelin starred Le Normandie, you can see why it was chosen to feature in the White Lotus. Its prime location also makes getting around the city easy with complimentary river shuttles available to guests. How much of Bangkok the show will reveal is yet to be seen but one thing is for certain, it is a must stop on your Thailand holiday.