Melissa Donovan
The hit HBO series “The White Lotus” isn’t just entertaining audiences—it’s inspiring travel plans in a big way. According to a recent survey by leading travel experience marketplace GetYourGuide, the show’s influence extends beyond passive viewership, with fans actively seeking vacations that echo the drama and excitement of its exotic filming locations.
The Rise of Set-Jetting
The phenomenon of “set-jetting”—traveling to destinations featured in movies and TV shows—is redefining modern tourism. “The White Lotus” has had a profound impact, with 75% of fans reporting that it has influenced their travel choices more than any other show. Notably, 31% have already visited Hawaii, Italy, or Thailand as a direct result, while 68% plan to do so in the future.
“It’s been widely reported that ‘The White Lotus’ is driving the ‘set-jetting’ trend and influencing many people’s travel decisions today, but we wanted to know how far people are willing to go to vacation like the show’s characters. We found that the peaceful vacation is dead. Fans are more interested in having visceral and thrilling experiences than they are in unwinding by the pool,” Madison Pietrowski, GetYourGuide’s Director of Brand in the U.S. said in a press release.
A Taste for Trouble
“The White Lotus” fans are taking a page from the show’s playbook, opting for excitement over relaxation. Survey results reveal that:
- 91% are looking to get into mischief while on vacation.
- 84% are likely to book travel to have a “White Lotus” experience—minus the murder.
- 55% say it’s “very or extremely important” that their trip mirrors scenes from the show.
- 26% would even go into debt to fund a “White Lotus”-style getaway.
Rather than seeking pure luxury, travelers are chasing adventure, unpredictability, and a sense of escapism that mirrors the show’s dramatic narrative.
Authentic Experiences Over Indulgence
Unlike the often self-absorbed and culturally oblivious characters in “The White Lotus,” fans prioritize authenticity. The survey highlights that travelers value:
- Connecting with locals
- Exploring off-the-beaten-path locations
- Savoring regional food and drinks
Beyond these, they also seek experiences that expand their horizons, test their limits through thrill-seeking adventures, and provide access to exclusive opportunities.
Instagram-Worthy Excursions
While travelers won’t find themselves on a scripted set, they certainly want their experiences to be camera-ready. A striking 71% of “White Lotus” fans say posting about their trip on social media is a major motivation. For them, every moment is an opportunity to capture main-character energy and broadcast it to the world.
Top “White Lotus”-Inspired Travel Experiences
For those eager to follow in the footsteps of their favorite on-screen vacationers, guided tours in Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand are surging in popularity. Some of GetYourGuide’s top-rated tours include:
- Koh Samui: Thai Cooking Class with Samui Local Family
- Ang Thong: Full-Day Discovery Cruise from Koh Samui
- Taormina: Opera Performance in the Nazarena Theater
- Taormina: Mount Etna Food and Wine Tasting Tour
- Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour
- Maui: Road to Hana Helicopter & Waterfall Tour
About the Survey
The survey, conducted by Wakefield Research, gathered insights from 1,000 U.S. “White Lotus” fans between March 18 and March 24, 2025. Participants were identified as fans if they either self-identified as such or watched the show regularly.
For those ready to embark on their own “White Lotus” adventure, GetYourGuide offers a range of curated travel experiences in these stunning destinations. Visit getyourguide.com or download the app to start planning an unforgettable journey.
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