When you’re too busy to get away but mentally need to tap out, television can transport you to different worlds—especially when the premise of the series you’re binging is vacation. We’re getting closer than ever to the premiere of White Lotus season three, so let’s talk about what you need to know and who’s new on the star-studded cast list. Take notes for your next trip because the hotels are as luxurious as always.
Past Seasons
The HBO series White Lotus started as a COVID project for director Mike White. The beloved storyline of a week in paradise turned dramedy follows guests at the White Lotus Resort as a luxury vacation begins to sour over time. The first season takes place in Hawaii, following the dynamics of a lost soul with an overflowing bank account, a bratty teen and her busy tech CFO mother, secret work affairs, and newlyweds with premature marital issues.
With set locations shut down and work restrictions caused by the pandemic, HBO asked White to create the miniseries quickly and without the need for relocation. White stepped up with the idea of a week-long vacation to fit the guidelines. The show was so successful that a second season aired in Sicily. The lost soul (Jennifer Coolidge) reappears alongside new characters, including Italian locals, the hotel’s pianist, and two couples pining for the title of better duo.
Season Three
Now, for what you’ve been waiting for: Season Three. HBO announced a third season with new cast members three episodes into season two. In February, they confirmed Thailand as the next destination on Instagram. With 43 Emmy nominations and 15 Emmys won in just two seasons, the chances of a successful third iteration are promising.
The White Lotus crew has a thing for Four Seasons Hotels, and it looks like their allegiance isn’t going anywhere. Season one took place in the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Hawai’i, and the second in the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Sicily. For the upcoming season, Four Seasons Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao Villas will be the guests’ temporary homes.
Four Seasons Koh Samui
Set along a pristine beach strip, Four Seasons Koh Samui is a five-star resort (that’s one lucky cast). The resort has seven villas and six private residences. Many of the accommodations are spacious, and have multiple living areas for families and large groups. The decor is tropical and Thai-inspired, with custom artwork throughout. You’ll have your own infinity pool, a deck, and a personal residential assistant. Other than booking your stay, with a built-in personal chef and itinerary guide, you don’t need to plan. Two restaurants, Pla Pla and Koh Thai Kitchen, serve grilled seafood and Southern Thai cuisine. Four Seasons Koh Samui also has the only worldly rum collection in Asia. When you’re out gallivanting, make sure to check out an elephant sanctuary and the Santiburi Golf & Country Club.
Anantara Mai Khao Villas
The second location is Anantara Mai Khao Villas, and it’s everything you imagine when you think of Thai luxury: overflowing fruit bowls, treetop omakase, and chakra crystal healing. The villas are on the northern end of Phuket, surrounded by a beach and a national park. The 83 stunning pool villas also surround a lagoon. You’ll have full privacy as tropical foliage keeps you concealed, while enjoying an outdoor bath. When you’re ready to interact with the rest of civilization, La Sala offers Thai food and teatime; the Tree House has panoramic views and omakase; and Spice Spoons is where you can partake in making traditional Thai dishes. The Anantara Spa isn’t to be missed either, with views of a lagoon filled with lotus flowers (fitting, isn’t it?) and Biologique Recherche products.
Who’s Starring
Parker Posey, Michelle Monaghan, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Jason Isaacs, Sam Nivola, Tayme Thapthimthong, Dom Hetrakul, Carrie Coon, Morgana O’Reilly, Lek Patravadi, Shalini Peiris, Walton Goggins, Sarah Catherine Hook, Leslie Bibb, Francesca Corney, Arnas Fedaravičius, Aimee Lou Wood, Blackpink’s Lisa, and Nicholas Duvernay.
What We Know
In an HBO sneak peek, Belinda (Natasha Rothwell)—the spa manager of the Hawaii resort—makes a comeback for season three. From her debut on the show, we know that Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) promised to help advance her career, but there’s no telling what’s next for her. In season two’s post-finale interview, White also mentions that you can expect dark satire involving death and Eastern spirituality.
The show was initially set to premiere in 2024, but SAG-AFTRA strikes have caused delays, with speculation that the season will air at the end of 2025. Now’s a good time to re-watch past seasons and refresh on characters whose stories continue. As for your travels, it would be wise to look into booking these hotels sooner rather than later, because prices will most likely rise once the show officially airs.
FAQs
Q: Are there activities for children at Four Seasons Koh Samui?
A: Yes. Some activities include coconut shell painting, s’mores on the beach, weaving garlands, and soccer on the beach.
Q: Are there nearby airports at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas?
A: Phuket International Airport is 15 minutes away.
Q: Is room service offered at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas?
A: Yes, there is a 24-hour in-room dining service.
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