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How Foreign Films Boost Tourism: Thailand’s
Turn in the Spotlight
Thailand has long been a popular filming location for international movies and TV shows. From
James Bond’s The Man with the Golden Gun to Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach, the country’s
stunning scenery and vibrant cities have attracted filmmakers from all over the world. But these
productions do more than entertain—they also inspire people to visit the places they see on screen.
Now, with the next season of HBO’s The White Lotus set in Thailand, the country is expecting
another tourism boom.
How Film and TV Boost Tourism
When a movie or TV show highlights a beautiful location, it often makes viewers want to visit.
This is known as “film-induced tourism,” and it has already happened in many places:
Hawaii saw more international visitors after The White Lotus Season 1 aired.
Sicily experienced a wave of tourists following Season 2 of the show.
New Zealand became a must-visit destination after The Lord of the Rings trilogy
showcased its landscapes.
South Korea saw a surge in visitors after Squid Game became a global hit.
With The White Lotus heading to Thailand, experts predict a similar effect. The show, known for
its luxurious resorts and stunning locations, will likely highlight Thailand’s beautiful beaches,
cultural landmarks, and five-star hotels—encouraging fans to plan a trip.
Thailand’s History with Film Tourism
Thailand has benefited from film tourism for years. The dramatic limestone cliffs of Phang Nga
Bay became famous after The Man with the Golden Gun, drawing James Bond fans to the area.
Maya Bay, the filming location for The Beach, attracted so many visitors that authorities had to
temporarily close it to protect the environment.
Beyond these well-known films, Thailand’s cities, islands, and cultural sites have appeared in
countless other productions, making it one of the world’s most recognizable travel destinations.
What This Means for Thailand’s Tourism Industry
With The White Lotus bringing Thailand back into the global spotlight, the country’s tourism
industry is preparing for a surge in visitors. Hotels, resorts, and tour companies are expecting fans
eager to experience the luxury and adventure they saw on screen. Airlines and travel agencies may
even create special travel packages inspired by the show’s filming locations.
This boost in tourism will benefit local businesses, from street food vendors to high-end resorts.
More visitors mean more jobs, stronger local economies, and an even bigger reputation for
Thailand as a top travel destination.
A Win-Win for Travelers and Thailand
For travelers, visiting a film location offers a fun way to connect with their favorite stories while
discovering a new culture. For Thailand, the global exposure from The White Lotus is a chance to
showcase its beauty and hospitality to the world.
As the country gets ready for its time in the spotlight, one thing is certain: Thailand’s charm,
landscapes, and warm welcome will once again capture the hearts of audiences—and future
visitors.