Pacific Tips 2025.02.18

With The White Lotus Season 3 premiering over the weekend, it’s all anyone in the travel world is talking about. The show has already had a massive influence on destination trends, with past seasons drawing travelers to Hawaii and Sicily—and now, Thailand is in the spotlight.

If you’re curious about where the show was filmed, how it’s expected to shape travel in 2025, or what kind of traveler The White Lotus inspires, today’s special edition has all the details. Let’s dive in!

🎥 Thailand Expects a Major Tourism Boom Thanks to The White Lotus

Season 3 takes viewers to Thailand, and the country is ready for a wave of new visitors. Just like how Hawaii and Sicily saw a huge influx of fans after the first two seasons, Thailand is hoping to capitalize on the show’s popularity. Apparently, Thailand was chosen over Japan due to the incentives offered to the show's producers. Resorts and tour operators are already seeing increased bookings, especially in Phuket, Koh Samui, and Bangkok. Read more🇹🇭✨

🎭 Meet the Cast of Season 3. Not caught up on the latest White Lotus drama? Variety has the full breakdown of who’s in, who’s out, and what to expect from the show’s newest season. Check it out 🎬📺

🌍 The White Lotus Effect: How TV & Film Shape Travel

Ever since the show first aired, The White Lotus has changed how people think about luxury travel. From lavish resorts to exotic destinations, travelers are no longer just looking for a vacation—they want a cinematic experience. But is this a good thing? Elle takes a deep dive into how the series is influencing travel. Read more 🌴💰

🛫 Are You a White Lotus Traveler?

What kind of traveler books a trip based on a TV show? Thrillist breaks down the different types of travelers inspired by The White Lotus—from luxury seekers to budget-conscious wanderers looking for a taste of the high life. Find out which one you are 🏝️✨

🌍 How TV & Film Impact Global Travel Trends

The White Lotus isn’t the only show influencing tourism—this trend has been happening for years. BBC Travel explores how iconic filming locations have reshaped global travel patterns. Read more 🎥📍

🏨 Where Was The White Lotus Filmed?

If you’re looking to experience the real-life version of the show, there are three main filming locations in Koh Samui, Phuket, and Bangkok. While some resorts have a steep price tag, there are ways to get a taste of White Lotus luxury—like having lunch at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok for a five-star experience without an overnight stay. See all filming locations 🍹🌅

📍 Inside the Resorts Where The White Lotus Was Filmed

Want to stay at a real White Lotus hotel? These ultra-luxury properties were chosen as the backdrop for Season 3, but not all of them are out of reach. Travel + Leisure checked in to see what these resorts are really like, and how to experience them—even if you’re not an A-lister. Read more 🏨💎

🌟 Travelers Are Already Booking Their White Lotus-Inspired Getaways

The New York Times reports that some locations featured in The White Lotus are already seeing a spike in bookings as fans rush to experience the magic of Thailand for themselves. Read more ✈️🏝️

🌊 National Geographic’s Best Thai Islands to Visit in 2025

Whether you’re looking for a secluded paradise or a bustling beach town, Thailand’s islands have something for everyone. National Geographic put together a list of most stunning Thai islands inspired by The White Lotus. Get inspired 🏝️🌞

That’s it for today’s White Lotus Edition! Whether you’re planning a real-life trip to Thailand, curious about how TV influences travel, or just dreaming of luxury resorts, there’s plenty to explore. One note: the bump tends to last a while, so if you’re watching your budget, keep an eye out for deals in the off-season. We’ve loved visiting Thailand for years and this may be your inspiration to fall in love as well!

Until next time, happy travels!

Dean & The Pacific.Tips Team

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