White Lotus, have you seen it? I can’t get enough. The captivating storylines and, dare I say, the occasional murder, have me glued to my seat. But it’s the breathtaking cinematography that truly takes my breath away. The show takes us on a visual journey, with scenes filmed in exotic locations like Four Seasons resorts in Hawaii and Italy, and the upcoming season set in Thailand. Can you imagine staying there? I daydream about it. For now, it remains on my bucket list. But don’t worry, if you share my dream of a luxury escape but are a little strapped for cash, I’ve got you covered. In this blog, I’ll share some more affordable alternatives.

Starting off in Hawaii

The hotel closest to Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Hawaii is the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, by Hyatt. It is still expensive; you can spend about $200 – $300 less but still have ocean views. You can’t go wrong spending all your time soaking up the sun and spending time in the ocean or pool. There is so much you can experience, amazing food, fun experiences for everyone. Here are a few things to do and places to eat.

Top restaurants

• Manolis Pizza Company
• Ka’ana Kitchen
• Humble Market Kitchin
• Lineage
• Ferraro’s Restaurant & Bar

Top things to do.

• Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
• Soul Surfing Maui
• Paddle On! Maui – Private Tours
• Emerald Golf Course
• Makena Cove
• Epic Maui Hikes

Session two was filmed in the Metropolitan City of Messina, Italy, again at the Four Seasons. It is a beautiful resort; however, it is drastically more expensive than all the other hotels in the area. I found a hotel that is even better than the Four Seasons. It is the Mazzarò Sea Palace. It is even more like the White Lotus beach canopies and lounge chairs to soak up the sun. When not lounging by the sea, visitors can explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Messina. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the majestic Messina Cathedral and the stunning Astronomical Clock, one of the largest in the world. For a more immersive experience, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, where you can discover quaint cafes and artisanal shops offering local delicacies and crafts.

Dining at the Mazzarò Sea Palace is a delight, with a range of exquisite options that showcase the best of Italian cuisine. Enjoy a romantic dinner by the sea at the hotel’s signature restaurant, where the menu features fresh seafood and traditional Sicilian dishes, all crafted with the finest local ingredients.

Top restaurants

• Ristorante Sant’Andrea
• Nui Restaurant Ristorante Pizzeria Taormina
• Caffè del Duomo
• Mizzica Specialità Siciliane Aperitivo Taormina
• Antico Caffè San Giorgio
• PierdeCat Sicilian Bistrò di Saglimbene Piero

Things to do

• Teatro Antico di Taormina Remains of ancient Greco-Roman theater ( You can get cheaper tickets on 3rd party sites if you plan ahead
• Sentiero dei Saraceni ( hiking)
• Villa Comunale di Taormina Destination for quiet walks amid landscaped gardens with picturesque views of the sea & city below.
• Corso Umberto One of the most stunning downtown pedestrian-friendly, featuring cafes, retail shops, restaurants, gelaterias, charming piazzas, and several breathtaking scenic spots.
• There is so much you can do at Mazzarò Sea Palace good food, wellness spa and lounging at the beach

Koh Samui is a paradise for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The island is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes, making it a perfect setting for the next chapter of The White Lotus.

While staying at TUI BLUE The Passage, guests can enjoy a blend of modern luxury and traditional Thai hospitality. The resort offers a range of activities, from yoga sessions on the beach to exploring the vibrant local markets. If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, the Explorar Koh Samui – Adults Only Resort and Spa provides a tranquil escape with a focus on wellness and relaxation. Here, you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments or simply unwind by the pool with a refreshing cocktail in hand.

Beyond the resorts, Koh Samui offers a wealth of attractions.

• The famous Big Buddha Temple
• Na Muang Waterfalls
• take a boat trip to the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park for snorkeling and kayaking adventures.
• Spend the day at Choengmon Beach you can rent lounge chairs explore local cuisine and culture.

Places to eat

• KOH Thai Kitchen & Bar
• La Villa Luna Restaurant
• Hug Samui
• Aromi diversi

While the Four Seasons have beautiful resorts, they are just a tad too expensive for the average person, unless spending $1000 a night for 1 room is in your budget. There are numerous hotels that provide comparable quality and fit within most people’s budgets. The ones listed offer similar amenities to the Four Seasons, including on-site spas, restaurants, and a wide array of activities. Ready to explore? Share your dream destinations in the comments below! I can’t wait to hear where you’d love to jet off to!