The White Lotus effect proves a big hit for hotel group

'The White Lotus effect' is in full bloom for the three Anantara properties that star in the hit TV series. 

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas have all experienced a surge in online interest and bookings, the Minor Hotels group reports. 

The Netflix show’s third season, which is set in Thailand and premiered on February 16, has driven a substantial uptick in interest in the three resorts, where much of the series was filmed. 

Traffic to the resorts’ websites has risen 104% year-over-year for the month of February, with the three properties also reporting a 41% rise in direct online bookings made in the same period.

Notable spikes in booking conversion were recorded on February 17 and February 24 - corresponding with the airing of the show’s first two episodes. 

Week-over-week data also shows a 100% increase in search traffic on the Anantara internet booking engine for the three properties compared to those same weeks last year.

"We’re thrilled to see travellers around the world inspired by the stunning settings in The White Lotus," said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, parent company of Minor Hotels. 

"We own and operate more than 30 hotels, resorts and residences in Thailand, and we expect this will not only boost interest in Thailand globally, but also enhance its positioning as an international luxury leisure and wellness destination."

Minor Hotels is also the owner of Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, another of the principal filming locations for The White Lotus season 3.

The trend highlights the power of television and film to shape real-world travel decisions. 

Anantara is offering a Lotus Awakening Escape package which includes experiences at the three Anantara resorts featured on The White Lotus and unique lotus-inspired activities that reveal the true heart of Thailand.

For more information on Anantara Lawana, Anantara Bophut, and Anantara Mai Khao, or to book an unforgettable stay, visit www.anantara.com.

Image: Lily ponds at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort

Relaxed vibe makes TRIBE a hotel success story

Hotel chains with a design element and more relaxed, upmarket hostel-style vibe are all the rage right now.

Mama Shelter was one of the innovators, followed by Moxy, and TRIBE is proving a success for global giant Accor.

TRIBE has just reached 20 hotels around the globe with "contemporary living, offering spaces that are smart, stylish, and encourage social interaction".

Created in Australia in 2017 by Mark and Melissa Peters, there are currently over 40 TRIBE hotels currently under development, including TRIBE Auckland Fort Street (above), which will open in the second quarter of 2025.

“Reaching 20 TRIBE hotels is just the beginning of our journey to redefine modern hospitality,” said Jean-Yves Minet, global brand president, midscale and economy at Accor.

“TRIBE hotels are design-led spaces that are smart, stylish and comfortable, providing everything that guests need and nothing they don't.

"Our designers focus on the things that really matter, creating vibrant and functional places to work, play, or relax, all at a great price. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on delivering innovative experiences, ensuring that TRIBE continues to embody contemporary living for modern travellers around the world.”

Called "the lifestyle segment" this hotel style with shared public spaces is increasingly popular.

“Accor recognised the growing demand for lifestyle-based hospitality and TRIBE more than delivers on this, providing investors and owners an appealing and modern offering for hotel development,” said Camil Yazbeck, global chief development officer, premium, midscale and economy division, for Accor.

“By blending local vibrancy with strong design credentials, TRIBE has carved out a distinctive space that attracts both travellers and locals seeking social experiences and stylish design."

Some of TRIBE's locations are unusual, from Medellin, Colombia, to the vibrant but previously unfashionable Clichy in Paris.