Fans of the acclaimed series The White Lotus were thrilled when the third season premiered on HBO, showcasing stunning locations across Thailand. Continuously praised for its cinematic beauty, the latest season takes viewers on visual adventures through idyllic spots such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Actress Aimee Lou Wood, who stars as Chelsea, remarked, "We got to shoot in some of the most incredible places," reflecting on the overwhelming beauty surrounding the cast during their shoots.
The series has become synonymous with luxurious settings, and unlike previous seasons filmed at plush Four Seasons resorts—first at Maui and then Taormina—this year features the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, where much of the action takes place. This five-star resort not only serves as the primary location for the fictional hotel but offers private villas with views of the Gulf of Siam, along with intimate amenities such as personal assistants. The various resorts showcased provide guests opportunities to unwind, with the Four Seasons allowing breathtaking views and ample leisure activities.
Aside from the Four Seasons, The White Lotus also utilized other prominent resorts, including Anantara Lawana on Chaweng Beach, where the fictional bar appears disguised as the resort’s Singing Bird Lounge. This vibrant spot offers visitors the chance to enjoy local cocktails named after indigenous birds and immerses them in the region's culture with unique bird-singing contests. Anantara Bophut served as the backdrop for various scenes, including hotel interiors, emphasizing the film's commitment to showcasing the Thai ambiance.
Traveling from stunning beaches to lively cityscapes, the show doesn't lose momentum. Some dinner scenes were filmed at Phuket's Rosewood hotel, where the restaurant Ta Khai serves authentic Southern Thai dishes under the starlit sky. David Bernad, the show’s executive producer, explained, "At night, we couldn’t shoot the restaurant area [of the Four Seasons]. It was too dark. So all the dinner scenes take place at the Rosewood actually in Phuket." Visitors curious about experiencing the breathtaking settings firsthand can do so, with rates at these luxurious establishments varying significantly.
The filming locations also contribute to noteworthy stories, bringing diverse narratives to life. While The White Lotus cultivates global interest, the Bridget Jones franchise continues to charm audiences with its relatable stories and memorable settings. The fourth film installment titled Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy saw Renée Zellweger and co-stars Hugh Grant and Chiwetel Ejiofor filming across various iconic spots in London, including the ultra-hip Hampstead.
Filming locations stand as more than just scenic backdrops; they create connections to the characters and stories celebrated by fans. Bridget’s Victorian family home was prominently featured between May and August 2024, embedded within Hampstead's exquisite atmosphere. The famous Spaniards Inn, steeped in history, hosted Bridget for key moments, echoing its appearances even in the pages of Charles Dickens.
Other standout locations included Islington's Old Queen’s Head pub, where Bridget and her friends enjoyed lively nights, alongside the picturesque Lake District for school expeditions. Major scenes also took place at Moor House for Bridget’s workplace and the historic Hope & Anchor pub, creating relatable and laugh-out-loud moments for fans. Cinematic landmarks such as Borough Market and the Electric Diner rekindle nostalgia for those familiar with the franchise, showcasing areas beloved by audiences since the first film aired.
The growth of screen tourism transcends individual series and shines light on broader trends. VisitBritain's new campaign, Starring Great Britain, seeks to capitalize on the increasing popularity of filming locations as travel destinations. Backed by testimonials and statistics, the campaign showcases how films and television shows influence travel desires across the ages. Patricia Yates, chief executive of VisitBritain, stated, "Our research shows films and TV shows are powerful motivators for travel," exemplifying the emotional connections forged by beloved characters.
Statistics reveal the tangible impact of film on tourism. Birmingham recorded a staggering 26% rise in visitors after Peaky Blinders aired its first season. The desire to visit filming locations reflects the human tendency to want to step directly onto the scenes witnessed countless times on screen. The hashtag #TheCrown has also driven up flight searches to filming locations by 53%, igniting interest from individuals eager to explore the charming neighborhoods portrayed.
Indeed, there is something uniquely captivating about visiting places featured on screen—places where countless viewers found moments of joy, laughter, and nostalgia. The marriage of film and tourism gives rise to new adventures, allowing fans to connect back to stories and characters they adore. With initiatives promoting this blend of travel and storytelling, it seems this trend is only set to grow as each new season of beloved series transports viewers to cinematic landscapes around the globe.