Unless you’ve been living under a rock the past few years, you’ve watched or at least heard of The White Lotus. While the show is largely focused on rich people getting their just desserts, the breakout stars have actually been the filming locations. Known as the “White Lotus effect,” the show has been the driving force behind millions of travelers visiting Italy and now Thailand.
On location: interest in The White Lotus destinations.
We looked back at searches following season two’s release (since season 1 came out during the pandemic) to see if the show had any sway. What did we find?
Immediate flight and hotel searches – both globally and in the US – are already stronger for season three than they were for season two. Though year over year insights haven’t been caught on to the “White Lotus effect” yet, we predict that Thailand (and more specifically Bangkok and Ko Samui) will see a huge boom in tourism soon.
What to know before visiting Thailand.
When to travel to Thailand.
We recommend visiting Thailand in October (based on our Best Time to Travel tool). The cheapest week to visit starts on the 6th when you’ll find an average of 17% flight savings compared to any other time of year. Average airfare from the US to Thailand during October runs around $916 and nightly hotel rates cost about $96 on average.
Other things to know.
No matter where you’re staying in Thailand, you’ll likely fly into Bangkok. The country is generally considered one of the most cost effective destinations in the world (higher end dinners roughly cost $15 USD).
Thailand is home to more than 1400 islands including Ko Samui where most of season three takes place. If you’re looking to get a feel for the show minus the crowds, try one of the neighboring islands like Ko Lipe, Ko Tao or Ko Lanta.
For Italy and Sicily data, KAYAK considered flight and hotel searches between Oct. 24 – 30, 2022 vs Oct. 31 – Nov. 6, 2022 for week over week immediate interest, and searches between Oct. 30, 2022 – April 30, 2023 vs Oct. 30, 2021 – April 30, 2022 for year over year long term interest. All travel dates used were within 1 year from year search dates.
For Thailand data, KAYAK considered flight and hotel searches between Feb. 10 – 16, 2025 vs Feb 17-23, 2025 (immediately before and after the season 3 premiere) to show week over week immediate interest. Travel dates used were within 1 year from year search dates.
KAYAK’s recommendation for travel to Thailand is based on the Best Time to Travel tool – the cheapest week was determined by looking at average airfare by week of travel (week being defined as Monday – Sunday). Savings was determined by looking at average airfare from the US to Thailand for the rest of the year vs the week in which KAYAK recommends visiting. Average airfare and hotel rates are based on travel for the week starting October 6 and ending October 12, 2025. Airfare, hotel rates and savings are on average and are subject to change.
