“The White Lotus”-Inspired Guide to Thailand

The HBO Original star-studded series heads to Koh Samui, Thailand, for another season of plot twists and travel inspiration. Set-jetters can channel the show’s glamour by following our recommendations for where to stay and what to do in Koh Samui – and other popular Thailand destinations.

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View from a verandah covered with a thatched roof looking over the lush hills of Koh Samui towards the Gulf of Thailand.

Thailand regularly lures millions to its beaches, unique attractions (cultural, natural, and spiritual), and indulgent retreats. Now Koh Samui is having a moment as a 2025 Trending Destination and the backdrop for season 3 of HBO’s satirical hit “The White Lotus” which filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. And through the American Express partnership with “The White Lotus,” guests can explore the spirituality, wellness, and the usual dose of wanderlust inspired by the series.

The coming year could propel Koh Samui to the ranks of one of the most sought-after beach destinations, and there’s plenty more to explore while in Thailand. Capital city Bangkok is one of Asia’s most dynamic urban sprawls, full of bustling markets, innovative restaurants, and gilded temples. 

Thailand also impresses with its luxury hotel scene, and Platinum Card® Members who book Fine Hotels + Resorts® properties through American Express Travel® enjoy an exclusive suite of benefits including daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4pm check-out, and a $100 credit1 to use towards eligible charges, such as food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges.*

Check out our “The White Lotus”-inspired guide to Koh Samui and beyond. And remember: You can freely explore with no foreign transaction fees2 on purchases made abroad with your Platinum Card.

In partnership with the HBO® Original Series ''THE WHITE LOTUS'', American Express® will bring Platinum Card® and Centurion® Members closer to ''The White Lotus'' at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in Thailand.

This multi-day international wellness retreat will include authentic spa treatments, elevated dining, a full moon celebration, & rejuvenating moments inspired by Thailand.

To Purchase: Call the number on the back of your Card and say ''Concierge'' when prompted to speak with the Concierge team to learn more, using your eligible American Express Card. Learn more. Terms apply.

Calendar

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Thailand is generally between November and March when the weather is cool and dry. But Chiang Mai has a smoky season (when farmers burn brush) from roughly January to April, typically peaking in March, that’s wise to avoid. It’s very hot between April and June; the rainy green season occurs between June and October.

Airplane

Getting There

Fly Cathay Pacific to Koh Samui and enjoy savings on premium seats with the International Airline Program.* It offers Platinum Card® Members that book through Amex TravelTM access to lower fares with participating airlines on international first, business, and premium economy seats. Discounts are available to Platinum Card Members and up to seven of their companions when traveling on the same itinerary. Plus, Platinum Card Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points* on up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year when you book through American Express Travel.

Koh Samui in the Spotlight

View from a lush hillside of a narrow spit of sand forking to two small, forested islands off of Ko Tao.
An elaborately carved dark gray stone temple, covered in Buddha faces and lotus motifs, rises out of lush greenery.

The island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand has an alluring mix of natural beauty and rich cultural and spiritual experiences. Visitors love the fuss-free cadence of languorous mornings spent soaking in the warm waters of Chaweng Beach before tucking into a tasty lunch of seafood omelet or a spicy mango salad at some of the island's seafront eateries, such as FishHouse (kimptonkitalaysamui.com). 

Experience the setting of the show by visiting beaches on a traditional junk boat with Red Baron Charter and hiring a 4x4 to visit the Buddha statues atop Khao Pom Mountain. You can also take a scenic daytrip to explore dozens of islands with towering limestone rock formations that make up Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park (explore available tours at GetYourGuide.com). Sample street food favorites at a night market in Fisherman’s Village and close the day out with a lively beach party back at Chaweng Beach.

For those interested in deepening their spiritual journey, the Samui International Meditation Center is a must visit. It offers daily complimentary meditation led by head monk Phra Punnadhammo as well as more immersive retreats. Time your visit to April for the opportunity to participate in the annual Songkran Water Festival, which marks the start of the Buddhist new year and is celebrated with cleansing rituals, including public water fights. 

Fine Hotels + Resorts

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

On Samui’s northwest tip, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, a Fine Hotels + Resorts® property, is the backdrop for season 3 of “The White Lotus.” Set among 856 coconut trees, with views of the Gulf of Thailand, the resort feels quite intimate with only 71 suites (with infinity pools and terraces) and residences. It also stands out for amenities like an on-site Muay Thai boxing ring, a rum vault with a collection of 150-plus varieties, and a secluded beach. With guaranteed 4pm check-out, Platinum Card Members have more time to bask in a treatment at the Secret Garden Spa; try the lava shell massage where warm lava-infused shells from the Pacific Ocean will be gently rubbed on your travel-worn muscles.

Thailand Beyond Koh Samui

An adult Indian elephant reaches its trunk into vegetation against the out-of-focus backdrop of a forested hill and white building.
Wat Rong Khun is a white Buddhist temple with incredibly detailed carvings, surrounded by a glassy pool reflecting a sunset.

Temples and Elephants in Chiang Rai

The gateway to northern Thailand’s lush, hilly jungle, Chiang Rai is a cultural crossroads, also known for its proximity to the Golden Triangle, the border that connects to Laos and Myanmar. While there’s ample rural charm (the city is surrounded by fields of rice as far as the eye can see), a striking number of contemporary projects are redefining Chiang Rai’s appeal, including venues for natural wine and jazz music, exceptional coffee, pottery, and art galleries. You may also want to scope out The White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, which was delicately brought to life by a Thai artist and is one of the most visited landmarks.

Fine Hotels + Resorts

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Keep “The White Lotus” vibes going at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, located in a bamboo jungle outside the city where the Ruak and Mekong Rivers meet. It’s a wildly luxurious place to commune with nature; the pool is surrounded by coconut palms, and spa treatments are done in the open air. A major highlight is the chance to take a walking tour with mahouts (keepers) and the elephants in their care, many of which were rescued in partnership with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation. Restaurant Nong Yao honors this location with a menu celebrating the culinary traditions in all three Golden Triangle countries; Platinum Card Members can apply their $100 credit to charges made there.

Near the summit of Doi Inthanon, two multi-tiered chedi are surrounded by bright grass, winding pathways, and carefully manicured flowerbeds.
On a misty morning, two thatch-roofed huts cling to a hillside covered in long rows of low-lying crops that follow the contours of the land.

The Modern Village of Chiang Mai

Thailand’s Rose of the North, Chiang Mai offers a delightfully varied travel experience. Yes, you’ll find quintessentially Thai temples and energetic night markets, which are great for tucking into Khao soi, the area’s signature coconut curry noodle soup. The city is also full of hip bars and workshops helmed by local creatives, plus third-wave coffee shops, modern shopping center One Nimman, and The House by Ginger (thehousebygingercm.com), a restaurant in a former colonial mansion. 

Of course, if you choose to venture outside the city, the verdant hillside that surrounds Chiang Mai is just as inspiring, whether you’re going for a brisk hike or to visit an elephant sanctuary. Explore available activities at GetYourGuide.com

Fine Hotels + Resorts

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Surrounded by the lush rice fields of the Mae Rim Valley, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai has a magical sense of place. The two-level infinity pool overlooks the rice paddies, and one of the property’s most popular activities is learning how to plant and harvest rice (yoga and Thai cooking classes are also available on site). A stay here is all about being immersed in the natural beauty of the region, with the high-quality standards Four Seasons is known for. From teak-floored pavilions to the multi-room residences outfitted with private pools, accommodations are spacious sanctuaries in a place defined by tranquility. With any luck, you’ll receive a complimentary room upgrade3 upon arrival (when available), just one of the Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits Platinum Card Members may receive when booking through Amex Travel.

Aerial view of the Phra Pathommachedi, a gigantic bell-like golden stupa, lit up in the evening in central Nakhon Pathom near Bangkok.
Street-level view of the Grand Palace, the historic royal and parliamentary headquarters in Bangkok, with gilt, ornate panloms on the gables.

Big, Beautiful Bangkok

One of the world’s most popular cities, Bangkok appeals to every indulgence: eating is a thrill, from street food to fine dining; shopping is truly exciting, whether you’re browsing at Chatuchak Weekend Market or contemporary malls like Emsphere (which are also handy for cooling off from the heat); and the nightlife is its own reason to visit. 

Start your day at the Jim Thompson House (jimthompsonhouse.org) to learn about the Thai silk industry before picking up beautifully patterned scarves, dresses, and shirts to take home—or to wear for the remainder of your vacation. Then spend the afternoon discovering recently revived Charoenkrung, the city's creative district. It's full of quirky boutiques, homegrown cafes, and thrilling galleries. For dinnertime, book an award-winning restaurant like Rongros or Sorn (sornfinesouthern.com). 

After-dark diversions also include food tuk tuk tours (available at GetYourGuide.com) and Muay Thai shows at Lumpinee or Rajadamnern stadiums. Seek out Bangkok’s quieter moments in the spas of top hotels or while navigating the under-the-radar network of canals on a traditional long-tail boat (also available at GetYourGuide.com).

Fine Hotels + Resorts

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

With its serene waterfront perch, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River feels a lot like an urban resort. So, while the location is primed for exploration, the hotel’s vast inventory of amenities will do its best to keep you on-site instead. And with BKK Social Club serving some of the best cocktails in town and the Urban Wellness Centre delivering everything from floating yoga to traditional Thai body and skin treatments, who can blame you for wanting to stay in? With the Fine Hotels + Resorts guaranteed 4pm check-out and $100 credit, Platinum Card Members who book through Amex Travel can get more out of their stay.

Explore all Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection properties in Thailand

Thailand Tips from American Express Travel Consultants

We tapped our travel agents for advice on what to know before visiting Thailand.

 

What to Pack

Given the climate, pack light cotton and linen clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. –Morgan

 

Cultural Mindfulness

Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes before entering, and avoid touching Buddha statues. –Vickie

The Wai Greeting is a traditional and respectful Thai greeting involving a slight bow with palms pressed together. –Vickie

Never disrespect the Thai royal family; it’s a serious offense. –Vickie

 

Money Matters

Carry Thai Baht with you (whether you get in advance or at an ATM on arrival). –Morgan

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; round up the bill or leave small change. –Vickie

 

Getting Around

Download the Grab app, which is the local version of Uber. Not only is it easy to use, but Thai people are so welcoming that you shouldn’t feel stressed about getting from point A to point B. –Morgan

 

Family Fun

Families will appreciate that Koh Samui has resorts with kids’ activities and Chiang Mai has fun cultural experiences like saa paper making, tie dye, and cooking classes. Plus, Hua Hin is an appealing choice for its beaches and water parks within driving distance from Bangkok. –Vickie

Tune in to the new season of the HBO original series “The White Lotus,” which premieres February 16, 2025, at 9pm ET on Max.
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