The White Lotus effect: Your guide to the best Koh Samui holiday
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Anyone who’s seen a season of The White Lotus will know that it’s not something to model your life on.
The characters tend to be a melee of the worst types of people who seem to get themselves into self-imposed uncomfortable or dangerous situations in the name of narcissism.
Yet, the show has one thing down pat: featuring some of the most incredible destinations around the world – and the third season, which has now fully dropped on Binge, is no exception.
Filmed primarily on the Thai island of Koh Samui, in the show you are immersed in the stunning coastlines and luxe resorts of this island destination that you should absolutely consider for your next holiday.
Here’s your guide to planning your next Koh Samui adventure.
Stay
Photographer Seet, Ken / Four Seasons.
If you are after the full White Lotus experience, you’ll be staying in one of three luxe resorts that were featured in Season Three.
The Four Seasons Koh Samui
With vast clifftop vistas, private pool villas, its pristine white sand beach and 70 acres of tropical gardens, the Four Seasons Koh Samui was the key filming location for White Lotus. All that TV-worthy luxury will set you back a pretty penny, with rooms starting at $1500 a night for two people in a pool villa and going up to an eye-watering $16500 a night in a five bedroom residence with a private pool.
The Anantara Lawana Koh Samui
Contributing its stunning singing bird lounge to the production of The White Lotus, the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort formed the basis of a number of scenes needing a spectacular open-air bar. Bringing things back to reality, the price for a room at this resort is around $300 a night.
Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort
The final key to the fictional White Lotus resort is the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, which lent its entrance, lobby, parking lot and jewellery store to the production. Taking things down another notch, you can grab a room here during low season for less than $300 a night, and you’ll still be blown away by the opulence and aesthetics of Thai resorts.
Something a little more down to earth
If White Lotus has taught us anything, it’s that having money doesn’t always lead to a better life, and the great thing about Thailand is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy your stay. For those on a more conservative budget, check out the Cheweng Garden Beach Resort which offers a central location with excellent stay, pay deals that will reduce your overall cost.
Play
Photographer Seet, Ken / Four Seasons.
Although a small island, Koh Samui’s tourism is well established and offers a blend of adventure, relaxation and exploration.
Hike to Na Muang Waterfall
A hike in Thailand’s tropical heat may not be high on the list, but the picturesque waterfall at the end of this 2.7 kilometre hike will beckon you in for a refreshing dip in its natural pool.
Night Market at Chaweng
If there is one thing that the Thais have absolutely nailed, it’s night markets. An experience for all the senses, the vibrant night market atmosphere at the Cheweng Night Market is the perfect spot for an affordable street food experience with live music, cheap beers and souvenir shopping.
Beach Yoga at one of Asia’s leading wellness resort, Absolute Sanctuary
You don’t have to be an in-house guest to stretch it out at a morning yoga session on Maenam Beach with the experienced wellness team at Absolute Sanctuary. There are also spa facilities, detox programs and a wide range of relaxation services on offer.
Exploring Fisherman’s Village Walking Street
Once you’re all stretched out, take things back up a notch with a wander through this bustling Friday market in Bophut. You’ll experience Koh Samui’s fishing heritage, shop for unique local handicrafts and enjoy the sunset from one of the many bars.
Snorkeling and Diving at Koh Tao
Book a full day tour to the stunning nearby islands of Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan to swim with tropical fish and possibly spot a turtle.
Eat and drink
Four Seasons.
You can’t throw a stone in Thailand without hitting an amazing meal. Pop these recommendations on your list to dive in, mouth first.
The Jungle Club
Perched atop a hill, The Jungle Club provides panoramic views of the island along with a menu featuring Thai, French, Italian and Mediterranean dishes. It’s an ideal spot for sunset dining.
Coco Tam’s
Located in Fisherman’s Village, this beachfront bar and restaurant offers the type of chill beach destination that you go looking for on holidays. With bean bags on the sand, wood-fired pizzas, and creative cocktails, you can settle in here for a few hours and get carried away with island life.
Kapi Sator
Recognised by the MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand system, Kapi Sator specialises in Southern Thai cuisine that’s fresh and sustainable. Sourcing local ingredients with an eye for free-range and wild-caught, this family run restaurant delivers all the flavours of the Gulf of Thailand.
Getting there
Photographer Seet, Ken / Four Seasons.
Convinced yet? Well, I am.
Qantas and Thai Airways can both fly you into Bangkok and then it’s just a short hop to Koh Samui on a domestic flight.
Or combine your trip with a stay in Phuket and jump on Jetstar’s direct service from Sydney to Phuket and then hop across the peninsula to Koh Samui on a domestic flight.
Top Tip: Combine your domestic flights within Thailand onto your international ticket wherever you can to save money.
Feature image: Four Seasons.
