The White Lotus effect is in full swing for Minor Hotels, as the hit HBO series drives a massive surge in interest and bookings for its Anantara resorts in Thailand. With The White Lotus Season 3 filmed at three of its luxury properties—Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas—the hotel group has seen a significant spike in travel demand following the show’s release.
Traffic to these resorts’ websites jumped 104% year-over-year in February, while direct online bookings surged 41% compared to last year. The most dramatic increases happened on February 17 and 24, aligning with the premiere of the first two episodes. During those weeks, room night bookings for retail guests grew by 53% and over 180%, showing just how much impact television can have on real-world travel decisions.
The trend goes beyond these specific properties—Minor Hotels has reported a 40% increase in global web traffic across all its luxury hotels in Thailand, fueled by interest from travelers in the UK, US, India, Germany, and France.
Beyond the numbers, the show’s immersive storytelling and breathtaking scenery have positioned Thailand as an aspirational luxury travel destination. Travelers now seek an escape that mirrors the world of The White Lotus, from serene beachfront villas to lavish resort experiences.
To celebrate the series’ success, Anantara has launched a “Lotus Awakening Escape” package, allowing fans to stay at the very resorts featured in The White Lotus while enjoying curated experiences inspired by the show. Guests can expect unique lotus-themed activities that offer a deeper connection to Thai culture, ensuring a stay that blends indulgence with authenticity.
Minor Hotels also owns Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, another key filming location for The White Lotus Season 3, further cementing its role in Thailand’s luxury travel boom. The phenomenon highlights the growing power of television tourism, as pop culture continues to influence global travel trends in unprecedented ways.
The impact of The White Lotus on travel is undeniable, turning its filming locations into must-visit destinations. With Thailand now experiencing a surge in luxury bookings, it raises the question—how much did The White Lotus Season 2 boost tourism in Sicily?
