Stunning island-hopping hotspot has been named a 'top destination' for holidays in 2024

We've all heard of jet-setting, but have you ever heard of set-jetting? According to experts from Expedia, set-jetting is likely to be a key trend for holidaymakers in 2024, with one tropical island-hopping hotspot being named a "top destination". Set-jetting, in case you didn't know, is the trend of people taking holidays to destinations inspired by television shows.

Thailand is one nation which the experts from Expedia believe will see an influx of travellers thanks to the filming of the hit HBO television show The White Lotus season 3. Though the third series is not likely to be released until 2025 (UK customers will be able to watch it on NowTV and Sky), it has been confirmed that the newest episodes of the show will be set in Thailand.

After collecting Global data from Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, the travel experts said: "As we revealed in last year’s report, set-jetting — or planning trips inspired by TV shows and movies — is influencing travel now more than ever. More than half of travellers say they’ve researched or booked a trip to a destination after seeing it on a TV show or in a movie.

"In fact, travellers say TV shows influence their travel decisions more than Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts."

Where to stay

Though the exact filming location of White Lotus season 3 is yet to be revealed, taking into account the previous two seasons, it's likely to take place in an opulent hotel. If you want to jet off to stunning Thai shores and recreate the experience yourself, a luxury hotel should be top of the list.

The first two seasons of the television show were filmed at Four Seasons hotel locations in Maui, Hawaii and Taormina, Sicily respectively. If that is anything to go by, the upcoming season may just be filmed in another Four Seasons hotel.

The luxury hotel chain operates four locations in Thailand, including the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle and Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River.

Stays at these five-star hotels don't come cheap, with the average price for a one-night stay in January sitting at £1,662 according to Google's price trends based on recent data. But of course, what you will get is a luxurious stay complete with swimming pools, high-quality dining and spa services all set to a stunning tropical backdrop.

Alternatively, two of our editor's top picks for hotels in Thailand include the beautiful Robinson Khao Lak, nestled on the shores of the tranquil Pak Weep beach and just a 15-minute drive from Khao Lak, and the Conrad Koh Samui, which overlooks the Gulf of Thailand.

Astounding temples, stunning ocean views and hand-crafted, locally sourced dining are all well within reach at Robinson Khao Lak's beachfront, five-star resort. The hotel has an official partnership with TUI and is included in its package holiday offering.

Surrounded by luscious greenery, the hotel is a mixture of temple-like structures, dark wooden features and beautifully manicured gardens dotted with trickling water features. And, guests won't go hungry with four restaurants and four bars to choose from.

You can read our full review of Robinson Khao Law here.

Sustainability is a top priority for Conrad Koh Samui, who really set the standard. From its oyster mushrooms and home-brewed kombucha to eggs fresh from the farm, the hotel capitalises on the lush surroundings to offer guests a truly unique luxury experience.

Every offering, from the beach Muay Thai classes to the spa treatments, pays tribute to Thai culture and this hotel is as far as you can get from a characterless beach resort.

Raised on stilts and perched on the hillside, each villa has its own infinity pool with panoramic views of the ocean. Any holidaymakers looking to get some lengths in can head to the hotel’s communal pool which has in-water loungers for relaxation. There’s also a private beach where guests can hire watersports equipment and snorkelling gear.

You can read our full review of Conrad Koh Samui here.

What to do in Thailand

It's hard to know where to begin, with Thailand offering so much culture and adventure to suit all types of holidaymakers. From adventurers to those seeking some peace and tranquility, Thailand is a nation that really has so much to offer.

If sightseeing and attractions are atop your list, Tripadvisor lists Wat Phra Chetuphon as its number one thing to do. The grand landmark is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok and features the famous Reclining Buddha, which is the largest in Thailand measuring more than 150 feet in length. Admission does come at a price, but tickets usually start from £15.29.

Marvel at nature's wonders with a day trip to Phang Nga Bay Sea Caves and James Bond Island (which you may have spotted on the big screen). With turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush jungle, Phang Nga Bay boasts islands straight out of a brochure. And, if you want to explore them you can do so by kayak and boat on an all-inclusive-day trip for around £100.

Island hopping is also a must-do for those who are planning a longer trip to Thailand. According to experts from BestatTravel.co.uk, some of the best islands to hop between are Krabi, Phi Phi islands, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Not and Koh Yao Yai, Phuket, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

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