There’s no doubt about it: Mike White is a genius. The first season of HBO’s The White Lotus took us all by surprise. The second left us wanting more. And the third has set the internet on fire, as each week dishes up more drama, speculation and menacing monkeys than you can shake a stick at.
It’s also taken the concept of ‘armchair’ travel to a whole new level. While seasons one and two took us to Hawaii and Sicily, season three has managed to combine 2025’s biggest travel trends (luxury, wellness and ‘galcations’) in an exhilarating trip to Thailand.
In fact, Minor Hotels reports that season three, episode one, sparked unprecedented interest in their Anantara properties in Thailand – with website traffic jumping by over 104%.
In South Africa, Flight Centre is also feeling “The White Lotus Effect”.
“We’re definitely seeing an increase in Thailand enquiries,” says Antoinette Turner, general manager for Flight Centre South Africa. “People are particularly interested in quotes and packages incorporating Koh Samui, Phuket and Bangkok – where The White Lotus was primarily filmed.”
Part of the appeal is the series’ beautiful backdrops, including lush rainforests, pristine beaches and private villas. The entire ‘White Lotus’ experience is dripping in luxury, massage oil and salt scrub. But who wouldn’t want to meditate in a private treatment suite or relax in a ‘sensory deprivation’ tank before hitting the beach or taking a tuk-tuk (or on Koh Samui, a songthaew) into town to celebrate Songkran?
It ticks every box for a family holiday, romantic escape, girls’ trip or solo adventure. And as Turner explains, you don’t need a White Lotus-sized budget to enjoy Thailand.
“Our latest blog takes a closer look at Thailand and the different options available for South African travellers,” she says. “The biggest drawcard – beyond the beaches – is that Thailand remains visa-free for South Africans, which makes a big difference if you’re on a budget.”
For Turner, the following resorts are a fantastic option for travellers looking for a ‘White Lotus’ inspired break without the price tag – or crowds.
First up, the 4.5-star Chaweng Regent Beach Resort, which sits directly on Chaweng Beach, is known for its soft sand and turquoise waters. It’s also just steps from Koh Samui’s markets and restaurants, making it perfect for those who want to balance lazy days at the (spectacular) pool with a little excitement and nightlife.
Secondly, Amari Koh Samui, tucked away at the quieter end of Chaweng Beach, offers three different wings (Garden Wing, Thai Village Wing, and Beach Wing) for those looking for unique experiences, be it family-fun or romantic appeal.
Thenthere’s Melati Beach Resort & Spa. The most reminiscent of The White Lotus, it delivers privacy, exclusivity and luxury – far from the madding crowd.
And for Turner, seeking quieter spots is an important part of the decision-making process.
“Nobody wants a Maya Bay situation, where the beach was closed by the Thai Government to address environmental damage caused by overtourism,” says Turner. “The key message has to be: enjoy Thailand, but explore lesser-known destinations, consider off-season travel if you can and always support local businesses and local organisations that are working to protect Thailand’s natural resources.”
Happily, there are plenty of ‘mindful’ and responsible ways to enjoy Thailand, including walks, waterfalls, sunset cruises and pampering treatments at one of the local spas.
If you’re planning a trip to Koh Samui in 2025, consider including the following sites and activities in your itinerary:
- The scenic hiking trail to Hin Lad Waterfall. A lot quieter than the Na Muang Waterfalls, this gentle-to-moderate hike rewards you with a peaceful temple complex at the beginning of the trail, plenty of birds and water monitors, and the option of a refreshing dip at the base of the gentle falls.
- An eco-friendly excursion in Thailand’s protected Ang Thong National Marine Park – a 42-island archipelago where you can snorkel, kayak or hike to breathtaking viewpoints.
- A visit to Island Organics Samui for an agri-tourism experience like no other. Enjoy an authentic Thai cooking class or farm tour – or head to Garrya Tongsai Bay for an organic garden tour.
“There is so much to see and do,” says Turner. “Obviously, you’ll want to visit Koh Samui’s beautiful temples – and spend plenty of time on the beach or in the water. So do make sure you plan for at least 5 days on Koh Samui, with some time on either side in Bangkok.
“The Thai people are incredibly hospitable. A Thailand holiday can never disappoint, whether you’re looking for a full ‘White Lotus’ holiday or a gentler, off-the-beaten-track experience with your girlfriends, kids or partner!”