The picturesque island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand is experiencing a surge in tourism interest, thanks to the White Lotus effect. Following the recent filming of the third season of HBO’s popular series The White Lotus on the island, international and domestic searches for accommodation on Koh Samui have increased significantly. This has put Koh Samui in the spotlight, attracting travelers from around the world.

Agoda’s data shows that travelers from a diverse range of countries, including Israel, India, Germany, South Korea, and Malaysia, are showing interest in visiting Koh Samui. The island’s global appeal is evident, as it draws a higher proportion of non-Asian visitors compared to Thailand as a whole.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President at Agoda, highlights Koh Samui’s unique charm and the excitement surrounding The White Lotus as key factors driving the increase in tourism. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, lush rainforests, and a wide range of activities, Koh Samui appeals to a variety of travelers, making it a versatile destination.

As the release of The White Lotus in 2025 approaches, featuring stars like Patrick Schwarzenegger and Lisa from BLACKPINK, Koh Samui’s popularity is expected to grow even further. Agoda, with its extensive listings of holiday accommodations, is helping travelers discover the best deals and experiences on Koh Samui and around the world.

With the success of past seasons of The White Lotus, hotels and tour operators in Thailand are already gearing up for a potential tourism boom. The upcoming season of the show, set in luxurious locations in Thailand, has sparked a rush of bookings from eager travelers, particularly from the US.

Luxury travel agencies like Virtuoso and Black Tomato have reported a surge in