The White Lotus Season 3: Where did they film season 3?
The White Lotus Season 3 Filmed in Phuket
The White Lotus Season 3 Filmed in Phuket
The White Lotus, HBO’s critically acclaimed anthology series, has captivated audiences with its biting satire, complex characters, and stunning backdrops. After whisking viewers away to Hawaii in Season 1 and the sun-drenched shores of Sicily in Season 2, the much-anticipated third season transports us to the exotic and vibrant locale of Phuket, Thailand.
The White Lotus
The White Lotus is an American black comedy drama anthology television series created by Mike White for HBO. It follows the guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain, whose interactions are affected by their various psychosocial dysfunctions.
Why Phuket?
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a blend of natural beauty and luxurious resorts, which made it the perfect setting for The White Lotus Season 3, a series known for its exploration of the dark side of paradise. The show’s creator, Mike White, has a knack for choosing locations that are almost characters themselves, and Phuket’s unique charm promised to add a new layer of depth to the narrative.
Filming Locations: From Luxury Resorts to Hidden Gems
Phuket offers a wealth of stunning locations, from bustling markets to serene temples, each contributing to the visual richness of the series. Here are some key spots where filming took place:
- Anantara Mai Khao Phuket villas: The luxury beachfront resort offers a beachfront infinity pool, wellness spa centre and multiple dining options, including Japanese omakase cuisine at Tree House, which is built around an ancient banyan tree.
- Phang Nga Bay: Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald-green waters, Phang Nga Bay offered a striking contrast to the luxurious confines of the resort. The bay’s stunning seascape was used for scenes that delve into the natural beauty and isolation of the island, highlighting the characters’ inner turmoil against a backdrop of serene waters and towering rock formations.
- Old Phuket Town: The colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture of Old Phuket Town added a touch of local culture and history to the series. The town’s vibrant streets were perfect for scenes where the characters venture beyond their luxury bubble, exploring the rich cultural tapestry of the island.
- Big Buddha: One of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks, the Big Buddha statue, served as a symbolic location in the series. This towering monument, perched atop Nakkerd Hill, not only provided panoramic views of the island but also underscored the spiritual and contemplative themes woven into the season’s narrative.
A Cast in Paradise
The ensemble cast of The White Lotus Season 3 found themselves immersed in the island’s beauty, both on and off camera. While the show’s plotlines often delve into the complexities of privilege and power, the actors enjoyed the serene and rejuvenating environment of Phuket during breaks.
Social media posts from the cast offered glimpses of their experiences exploring local markets, savoring Thai cuisine, and enjoying the island’s natural wonders including private boat trips with 5 Star Marine Phuket. They also took time out from filming to give back to the local Thai community. Actors Jason Isaacs and Emeraude Toubia joined with 5 Star Marine staff and Living Waters Phuket, to deliver school supplies, milk, and toys to children from Koh Sirey Villagers. It was amazing to see the smiles and delight on the kids’ faces, not only getting some brand new school supplies and toys but also getting a chance to meet some famous actors.
Anticipation for Season 3
As the release date for The White Lotus Season 3 approaches (2025), fans are buzzing with excitement. The choice of Phuket as the backdrop promises a season filled with intrigue, beauty, and the series’ signature blend of dark comedy and drama. With its rich cultural setting, breathtaking locations, and the return of the show’s unique storytelling, this season is poised to be yet another critical and popular success.
Phuket, with its enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture, is set to be the most captivating “character” of The White Lotus yet. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to its charms, Season 3 is sure to transport you to a world where paradise is never quite what it seems.