THAILAND CALLING

Koh Samui's Anantara Bophut & Anantara Lawana resorts make up the lush background in the new season of The White Lotus. Isha Mayer checks in

- Isha Mayer

"Whenever I stay at The White Lotus, I always have a memorable time," said Tanya Mcquoid, the eccentric yet most loved character played by Jennifer Coolidge in the cult show. While she may not return in the third season, I can relate to her sentiment, especially after experiencing two of the breathtaking resorts where the latest season of The White Lotus was filmed.

With the new season set in Koh Samui, Thailand, the island is already seeing a surge in travellers. This phenomenon even has a name: The White Lotus Effect. While the show's dark twists and murderous plot keep audiences hooked, its stunning locations often steal the spotlight, inspiring viewers to pack their bags. Following in the footsteps of Maui and Sicily, Koh Samui is the latest backdrop for the show's high-octane drama. While Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui serves as The White Lotus hotel, three Anantara properties helped bring the fictional setting to life. Anantara Mai Khao Phuket's wellness sanctuary provided the eerie opening scene, while Anantara Bophut and Anantara Lawana-both of which I had the pleasure of experiencing-made memorable appearances.

With access to the first six episodes thanks to HBO and JioHotstar, I enjoyed the thrill of matching scenes to the very locations I was staying in. While only a few but crucial scenes were filmed at the Anantara properties, the atmosphere, luxury, and tropical allure are unmistakably cinematic.

BOPHUT BEAUTY