And, of Course, “The White Lotus”

Soneva Kiri, an eco-luxury resort far from the tourist crowds on the island Koh Kood, has a wellness offering that eclipses even the fictional “White Lotus” hotel. Soneva has a philosophy called SLOW LIFE, which stands for Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wellness-Learning-Inspiring-Fun-Experiences. Their treatments are carried out by international specialists, with naturopathic treatments, traditional Thai herbal poultice massages, and nonintrusive wellness trackers (the Oura Ring) as just some of the star attractions.

Soneva Kiri’s spa is in an ancient rainforest and includes a yoga pavilion, a Watsu pool for water Shiatsu, and bamboo mist showers. Their Treepod Dining experience is also worth a mention — suspended in a bamboo cocoon in the treetops overlooking the ocean, your personal waiter ziplines to the pod to bring you your cuisine.

It’s well-known that “The White Lotus” chose Four Seasons Hotels for a few of their filming locations, but our top pick for this luxe hotel brand is not featured in the show (it can remain our insider secret!) — Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle.

We love this resort for its exquisite luxury tents, tropical safari feeling, and location in the misty mountains, but most of all, for its experiences, especially those observing Asian elephants. Spending time with these graceful, playful mammals is its own kind of wellness experience — the peace you feel around them is worth 100 meditation ceremonies.

Rosewood Phuket, the most prominent hotel featured in season three of “The White Lotus”, is also one of our favorites, and we totally understand why the producers picked it. We send our guests there regularly—they’re always smitten with its outstanding villas which have direct access to the pristine beach, lush wellness center, and sparkling pools that wind between palm trees. Other highlights include their Thai cooking lessons and tours with the chef around their sustainable farm, which provides a fabulous farm-to-table dining experience.

Though every “White Lotus” sleuth has combed through season three’s title sequence Thai murals for hidden clues, you can learn about the mysteries behind real temple artwork in Nan province in the north of mainland Thailand.

There are many temples dotted between farms, villages, and mist-shrouded mountains in this forested region, but Wat Phumin is a favorite. Built in 1569, its well-preserved murals painted in the 19th century tell stories of the Buddha’s past lives, animals, and lovers — a bit like a 19th-century version of a hit TV show. Most well-known is the “Whispering Lovers” mural, which depicts a man whispering into his lover’s ear. By the looks on their enraptured faces, their secrets rival any in “The White Lotus”.

Though we see the characters in “The White Lotus” ride around Koh Samui and Phuket, the island Koh Kood is the real paradise you’ll want to discover by scooter. Secluded with little traffic, this island holds many secret waterfalls, untamed beaches, jungle paths, and rural fishing villages. You can add exploring the islands’ handful of luxury resorts to your novel scooter adventure — make sure to stop by the aforementioned Soneva Kiri for a tour around their organic gardens and a medicinal mixology cocktail class with the botanical bartender. You can always stay over in one of their luxury villas after the refreshing drink (or two).

Want to stay at the Four Seasons or dine in a Treepod, glide under red sails and between water lilies, experience the jungle on a scooter, or something totally off “The White Lotus” track? We’ll create a custom, thoughtful itinerary for you, taking care of all the details so you can sit back and let your own story unfold.

Click here to enquire and set the scene for your journey.