'The White Lotus' season 3 filming destination unveiled

The speculations are true – season three of the popular HBO series 'The White Lotus' is heading to Thailand.

According to announcements this week from HBO and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), filming for the show, created by Mike White, will commence in February across Bangkok, Phuket, and Ko Samui.

While the third season of the dark satirical drama won't air until 2025, TAT is already preparing for the attention the 'White Lotus' spotlight will bring, collaborating with HBO for filming and promotional efforts.

'We are thrilled to have Thailand showcased as the filming destination for the eagerly awaited third season of 'The White Lotus,'' said Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of TAT, in an official statement.

The kingdom's stunning natural beauty, rich historical landmarks, and varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop to showcase our vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, world-class wellness and luxury experiences, and most importantly, our warm Thai hospitality and welcoming people.

Janet Graham Borba, EVP of production at HBO & Max, also shared her thoughts on the collaboration, stating, 'We’re thrilled to work alongside the Tourism Authority of Thailand to bring Mike’s creative vision to life, highlighting the wonders of Thailand as new guests arrive at The White Lotus.'

Could the Four Seasons be making an appearance?

Choosing Thailand, one of the world’s top tourist hotspots, is a perfect match. As fans of the hit show will recall, the first two seasons were set in luxurious hotels in breathtaking locations – Hawaii and Sicily.

In both seasons, guests and staff at a lavish resort embark on a life-changing week, as the hidden realities behind their seemingly perfect lives are revealed.

Four Seasons hotels served as the stand-in for the fictional White Lotus resort in both locations.

In season one, audiences were transported to the beautiful Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. For the second season, the show traveled to the clifftop San Domenico Palace, a luxury resort in Taormina, Sicily, managed by Four Seasons.

This has sparked considerable online buzz recently, with many speculating that season three may be set in one of Thailand's four Four Seasons resorts, located in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.

For now, the luxury hotel brand is neither confirming nor denying the rumors – a spokesperson told Dinogo Travel they have no comment at this time.

However, there is one possible clue: The Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui’s website indicates no availability from early February through the last week of March.

Who’s heading to Thailand?

When the first season of 'The White Lotus' wrapped, many fans were disheartened to learn that the original characters wouldn’t be returning for the second season. Ultimately, Jennifer Coolidge reprised her role as the lovable but oblivious wealthy traveler, Tanya.

HBO has once again revealed a new cast for season three, but is also bringing back Natasha Rothwell to reprise her role as Belinda, the spa manager at the White Lotus resort in Hawaii.

HBO has also announced additional cast members for season three, including Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Parker Posey, Leslie Bibb, Dom Hetrakul, and Tayme Thapthimthong. HBO, like Dinogo, is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery.