When I sat down to binge-watch Season 3 of White Lotus, I expected drama, decadence, and dysfunctional vacationers. What I didn’t expect? That electric jolt of recognition—the kind that says, “Wait… I’ve been there!”
As the camera swept across misty mountains, ancient temples, and serene beaches, it felt less like watching a fictional getaway and more like flipping through my own travel diary. Turns out, several of the show’s filming locations were places I’d explored—long before fictional chaos descended upon them.
Here’s what it was like to revisit my trip to Thailand, this time through HBO’s lens.
Chapter Trail
Chiang Mai, Thailand: Serenity Meets Subtle Drama
White Lotus made Chiang Mai look like a spiritual paradise. And honestly? That’s not far off.
I remember waking up to the sound of temple bells, wandering through leafy courtyards, and feeling like time had slowed down just enough to let me breathe. I stayed in a quiet guesthouse by the Ping River, where mornings began with sticky rice and mango, and evenings ended with lantern-lit strolls through the Night Bazaar.
When the show’s characters meditated under ancient banyan trees or awkwardly clashed during cooking classes, I couldn’t help but smile—I’ve been in that same temple, minus the emotional meltdowns.
Ko Samui: The Beach Bliss That Hides the Storm
White Lotus’ luxe beachfront scenes? Pure Ko Samui. Picture turquoise waves, endless coconut trees, and resorts that seem to melt into the jungle.
I stayed near Silver Beach, a crescent of soft white sand that felt almost secret. I kayaked at sunrise, watched fishermen bring in their catch, and got more than one massage under a palm tree. But I also ventured beyond the pampered parts—into local villages, waterfalls, and fish markets that reminded me Ko Samui isn’t just for the rich and restless.
Watching the show, I recognized the contrast between indulgence and authenticity. And I appreciated that Ko Samui still lets you choose your own version of paradise.
Bangkok: A Quick, Frenetic Flash
The show’s stopover in Bangkok was chaotic, vibrant, and slightly unhinged—which, if you’ve ever been to Bangkok, is perfectly accurate. I remembered racing through the Chatuchak Market, hopping on longtail boats through the canals, and trying to eat noodles gracefully while sweating buckets in 38°C heat.
White Lotus barely scratched the surface of the city, but it captured the sensory overload and that underlying tension—like something wild could happen at any moment. (Thankfully, in my case, it was just too much chili in my papaya salad.)
What Hit Different Seeing It on Screen
Watching White Lotus didn’t just remind me of where I’d been—it made me remember how I felt while I was there. The heat. The smells. The thrill of navigating new customs. The quiet moments of wonder. And yes, the occasional travel awkwardness that even I couldn’t meditate away.
The show is full of exaggerated drama, sure, but the locations? They don’t need a script. They’re rich with stories all on their own.
Final Thought: Go There Before the Next Season Drops
If White Lotus Season 3 sparked your wanderlust, let it be your travel sign. Whether you want temples or tides, spice or silence, Thailand has a way of pulling you in—and keeping a part of you, long after you’ve gone home.
Just… maybe skip the resort where the show was filmed. You never know what drama might be included with your welcome drink.
Check out the free family trip itinerary to Thailand from Baboo Travel below:
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