Cover Photo: Gaya Island Resort
Photo: Gaya Island Resort
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The Datai Langkawi and more lush and luxe retreats that would set the stage for the intrigue and drama of ‘The White Lotus’
Scandal, dark secrets, intrigue, and murder all unravelling against an idyllic island paradise backdrop—February 17 marked the premiere of the highly anticipated third season of HBO’s The White Lotus, which is set in Thailand and featuring a star-studded cast that includes Jason Isaacs, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Parker Posey, Natasha Rothwell and of course, Lalisa Manobal in her acting debut.
As we witness the web of drama and dark comedy unfold in the latest season of this eight-episode series, we can’t help but be in awe of the show’s pristine island setting, filmed on location at iconic destinations such as Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui and Anantara Mai Khao Phuket. From the peaceful lotus ponds to lush tropical gardens, these pristine locations may easily be recreated by Malaysia’s own ancient rainforests and untouched island resorts.
If The White Lotus were set in Malaysia, here are four gorgeous destinations we would love to see on the big screen (minus the murder, toxic tourists, and mayhem, of course).
The Datai Langkawi
The lobby at The Datai Langkawi is the work of designer Didier Lefort and the founding team at Datai
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The Datai Langkawi’s exquisite suites and villas offer sweeping views of a 10 million-year-old rainforest as well as the pristine waters of the Andaman Sea and the Tarutao Island on the horizon. With expansive villas, tokay geckos and other wildlife perched outside your balcony and a private footpath leading to Datai Bay’s white-sand beach, it’s hard not to picture this five-star resort as the setting of a hit TV series.
Not far from the The White Lotus’s themes of wellness and spirituality, The Datai Langkawi’s wellness initiatives are key to the resort experience. The Datai Well-being Series 2025 offers an inspiring line-up of visiting wellness practitioners, from yoga and meditation experts to traditional, restorative wellness experiences at The Spa.
The Datai Langkawi, Jalan Teluk Datai, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah
See also: ‘The White Lotus’ cast on why season 3 is set to be the best one yet
Gaya Island Resort, Sabah
Above Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Gaya Island Resort in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
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Gaya Island Resort, nestled within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, is a dreamy escape where untouched nature meets refined luxury.
Set against the majestic outline of Mount Kinabalu, this eco-luxury resort boasts hillside villas with sweeping views of mangrove forests, lush rainforest canopies, and sun-drenched beaches. Its contemporary yet Sabahan-inspired design, intimate seclusion, and commitment to sustainability make it an ideal setting for high drama and intrigue.
Plus, The Spa Village at this remote paradise is like something out a TV series itself—set amidst lush mangroves, surrounded by flora and fauna with misty views of the distant mountains.
Gaya Island Resort, Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
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Malihom, Penang
Above On the grounds at Malihom, Penang (Photo: @hybridyang/Instagram)
Above Dusk at Malihom, Penang (Photo: Malihom)
On the grounds at Malihom, Penang (Photo: @hybridyang/Instagram)
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Perched on a secluded 40-acre estate in Balik Pulau, Malihom is a hidden sanctuary where history, nature, and tranquility converge. Originally a family retreat, this homegrown haven now welcomes guests to stay in beautifully restored Thai Lanna teakwood rice barns, each offering rustic elegance and panoramic views of Penang’s lush hills.
With its own natural spring supplying pure, refreshing water and a deep-rooted commitment to conservation, Malihom blends heritage with sustainability. Its remote, intimate setting and timeless charm would make a stunning backdrop for the next chapter of The White Lotus.
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, Desaru Coast
Above The plunge pool at the Lagoon Pool Villas at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
Above The Lagoon Pool Villa here boasts kampung styled villas and plunge Lagoon pool with a lush tropical garden and wide sun deck
The plunge pool at the Lagoon Pool Villas at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
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Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is a sanctuary of coastal luxury set along Malaysia’s golden shores. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, its elegant low-rise buildings and stand-alone villas blend contemporary comfort with traditional Malay architecture.
Lagoon Pool Villas offer serene pondside escapes, while expansive residences with infinity pools provide ultimate privacy. Guests can indulge in nature walks, sunrise dong stick sessions, and birdwatching, or simply unwind in the tranquil embrace of Anantara’s signature hospitality.
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar, Johor
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Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
