The idyllic paradise island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand is experiencing a surge in tourism interest, with international and domestic searches for accommodation on the island rising significantly in June compared to the same period last year. This increased interest is attributed to the buzz surrounding the upcoming third season of HBO’s acclaimed series, The White Lotus, which recently wrapped up filming on Koh Samui, drawing global attention to the island.

Agoda’s data reveals a diverse mix of travellers eyeing Koh Samui, with top international markets including Israel, India, Germany, South Korea, and Malaysia. Koh Samui’s global appeal is evident as it attracts a higher proportion of non-Asian visitors compared to Thailand overall.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President at Agoda, notes that Koh Samui’s unique charm, combined with the excitement surrounding The White Lotus, is attracting both international and domestic travellers. The island’s lush rainforests, world-class spas, and range of activities make it a versatile destination for all types of holidaymakers.

With the highly anticipated release of The White Lotus in 2025, 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 on the island and worldwide, caters to travellers seeking the best deals and unforgettable experiences.

As tourists gear up for their tropical escape inspired by The White Lotus, hotels and tour operators are already anticipating a surge in demand. The show’s previous seasons filmed at luxurious locations have led to a significant increase in visitors, and Thailand is expected to experience a similar boom once the new season airs.

Luxury travel agencies have reported a rise in bookings to Thailand, driven mainly by