Inside the Real-Life Ultra-Luxury Hotels of ‘White Lotus’ Season 3 in Thailand

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Step foot into any Anantara resort nestled in southern Thailand, and the ordinary world dissolves into an emerald jungle curtain. The noise of scooters and city life is replaced by birdsong – the calls of the coucal, the magpie, and the orange-breasted trogon, along with the sweet aroma of flowers and spices. A hostess in the lobby welcomes you with a steaming cup of ginger tea and the key to your secluded villa, ensconced within lush greenery and boasting a private plunge pool amidst a tropical coastal haven.

In the thrilling realm of “White Lotus” Season 3, I can hardly contain my excitement as one of its many devoted fans. The enchanting Koh Samui Four Seasons, Anantara Bophut, Anantara Lawana, and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket are the stunning backdrops that make up the fictitious luxury resort in this season. Each of these resorts is eagerly awaiting the so-called “White Lotus bump,” a surge in tourism that graced the locations following the captivating first two seasons, which were set in Hawaii and Sicily respectively.

Following the broadcast of Season 1 in 2021, the location where Maui’s Four Seasons was filmed experienced a 25% increase in visitors. For Season 2, which was set at the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily, the hotel was fully booked for 2023. Although Anantara and Four Seasons are distinct brands, they are both managed by Minor International PCL, a conglomerate established and headed by American entrepreneur Bill Heinecke. The popularity of Thailand surged to over 35 million tourists in 2024, marking a 21% growth since the beginning of the year. This number is expected to reach a record high after Mike White’s show premiered its third season on HBO last Sunday.

Michelle Monaghan shares with The Hollywood Reporter that working on this project was not just a creative wish fulfilled for her, but also a unique and unrepeatable personal experience,” explains the cast member about her involvement in the show, which started principal photography in February 2024.

Leslie Bibb, one of the actors, mentions that their film’s production began with a blessing at a spiritual home, which is an unusual occurrence for her. Alongside Monaghan and Coons, she portrays one of three old friends reconnecting during a vacation, but they soon realize their friendship has weakened. ‘You feel deeply engrossed in this environment,’ Bibb explains, ‘as nothing is staged or artificial. The sets are practical, and the events unfold in real-time, making it less about acting.’

In this series, a striking depiction of the wise, strong, brave, devoted, and disciplined figure of Hanuman, the monkey god, takes center stage. This portrayal serves as a contrast between Western ideals of wealth and material possessions, and the Buddhist teachings of selflessness and spiritual growth.

According to actor Jason Isaacs, who portrays Timothy Ratliff, this place is brimming with Buddhists, monasteries, and individuals striving to live their best, kindest, and most compassionate lives. Buddhism plays a significant role in our narrative; it’s about self-discovery, purpose, and what truly matters in life – themes that Mike [White] wanted to delve into.

The third season’s White Lotus hotel, as described by the concierge, is hailed as the top resort worldwide. From what we see, this claim seems genuine. Unfortunately, such a paradisiacal accommodation doesn’t truly exist, but the locations do. If you have some additional thousand dollars, you can visit these places and enjoy them firsthand.

Monaghan describes White Lotus as an incredibly immersive experience. He explains that since filming, eating, and living all take place in the same area, strong bonds are formed and intense relationships are created. Essentially, it feels like summer camp, where everyone stays for six months at a time. Every few weeks, they would relocate to a new spot. In total, this was done six times, making for a very transient lifestyle.

The Four Seasons on Koh Samui spans over 43 acres of hilly terrain boasting breathtaking vistas of the tranquil and alluring Gulf of Thailand. Situated in the undeveloped northwest region of the island, its 60 villas and private homes are nestled within a valley filled with vibrant tropical flowers and echoing with bird melodies. Notably, Residence #9 at this resort was the home of the Ratliff family, a lavish, multi-level hilltop abode boasting four bedrooms, two infinity pools, personal chef services, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Jaclyn Lemon (Monaghan), Laurie (Coons) and Kate (Bibb), along with Rick Hatchett (Walton Goggins), who is accompanied by his girlfriend Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood), all stayed at the same hotel. This hotel was also where Rick is seeking revenge. Scenes were filmed in various locations within the hotel, including restaurants, pool, gym, boxing ring, spirit house, beach, and common areas. Additionally, scenes were captured using those lavish water hammocks.

Filming was also carried out at Anantara Lawana, a peaceful resort situated on a secluded beach stretch in Chaweng. Here, Hatchett met Chelsea for drinks at the hotel’s breathtaking Singing Bird Lounge, nestled within Tree Tops, an open-air restaurant perched high up in the jungle canopy. The architecture of Lawana is reminiscent of traditional Thai and Chinese fishing villages, with its suites boasting private sundecks, plunge pools, and a suspended swing and shaded daybeds.

At Anantara Bophut, you’ll find facilities like the White Lotus security station, jewelry store, employee parking lot, an entrance lined with trees, and a lobby. Beyond this lies the main pool, enticing yet overshadowed by the sea, whose sapphire-tinted waters are as comfortably warm as a relaxing bath. Here, guests can swim alongside vibrant wrasses and butterflyfish, as well as backstroke near barracudas and reef sharks. A quick drive away is Fisherman’s Village, one of Koh Samui’s popular destinations, brimming with shops, eateries, and fashionable beach bars.

Just a quick journey takes you to Anantara Mai Khao, nestled at Phuket’s northernmost point, bordering the Sirinath National Park. This picturesque setting offers a soothing symphony of bird songs along its jungle trails, quaint bridges, and secluded waterways filled with lotuses. The “Lotus Awakening” ritual at Mai Khao combines chakra crystal alignment and therapeutic sound healing. Their restaurant, La Sala, features a special menu called the “Lotus Season” dinner. Here, our character Belinda (played by Natasha Rothwell in season one) picks up new spa skills and unravels a season two mystery. Filming spots include Belinda’s room (Suite #45), as well as the series’ own spa, with massage scenes shot at Bophut.

Worldwide, Thai massage is appreciated for alleviating the strain of urban living in cities like New York and Los Angeles. However, it’s particularly rewarding when experienced in its birthplace. Consider booking the Coconut Dream Experience at Bophut spa, a full-body deep tissue massage that uses warm coconut oil to soothe the fatigue from your long flight.

As a gamer, I’d be thrilled about the “Lotus Awakening Getaway,” a 4-night adventure that whisks me away to Phuket and Koh Samui! This action-packed journey takes me to all three Anantara resorts, each stop meticulously designed inspired by the series. It’s like living out my favorite gaming levels in real life!

The TV series explores various spots in Bangkok, such as the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and the ancient Grand Palace that dates back to the 18th century. This architectural masterpiece showcases a unique fusion of Thai, Chinese, and European styles, with notable attractions like the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (a massive statue carved from a single piece of stone). There’s plenty to discover about the city’s landmarks, and you’d be fortunate to learn it from a guide named Luck Amornvoravong. She works for Zicasso Travel, which specializes in creating White Lotus-themed itineraries focused on spiritual and wellness destinations tailored to your specific preferences.

In terms of culinary experiences, Bangkok boasts no less than 35 Michelin-starred eateries, one of which is Centara RedSky, offering al fresco dining on the 56th floor with a breathtaking view of the city lights below. Approximately 40 minutes from the city center lies Pae Krung Kao Restaurant, situated near Ayutthaya, an ancient palace that predates the 14th century and served as a model for Bangkok’s Grand Palace. The menu offers delectable green curry, grilled prawns, fish balls, and exceptional Tom Yum soup.

Regardless of its opulence, wellness amenities, and incomprehensible comforts, all cast members concur on one unique aspect that distinguishes Thailand. “The people are exceptional. Their culture is incredibly warm, a testament to the nickname ‘the land of smiles,’ which rings true,” remarks Monaghan.

Isaacs notes that one common trait he observed in Thailand, though often stereotypical, proved to be accurate: a sense of gentleness pervades throughout the Thai population. This gentleness isn’t confined to the hospitality industry but can be found everywhere, making an indelible and heartwarming impression.

In the third season of The White Lotus, fresh episodes will air every Sunday at 9 p.m., on both HBO and Max. Keep up-to-date with our in-depth season analysis, including an overview of the premiere, right here on THR.

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2025-02-17 18:55