Don’t let White Lotus fever scare you... luxury holidays in Thailand are cheaper than you ever imagined
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Going all out for a seriously oppulent stay in ‘The Land of Smiles’ is more affordable than you might expect – destination expert Lucie Grace gives the lowdown on how to go premium for the fewest pennies. Once synonymous with backpackers earning their traveller stripes on the Khao San Road and families bundling in slightly tatty resorts on a very large island that we won’t name, the past few years have seen Thailand artfully deliver a post-pandemic rebrand as the luxury destination in Asia.
![[A bird’s-eye view of the wonderous Andaman Coast]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/02/15/newFile-13.jpg)
And it’s a campaign that continues to roll out oh-so-elegantly this winter peak season, as flames are stoked by trailers for the third series of the award-winning satire show The White Lotus, which will finally air from 25 February 2025. With a stellar cast, including the Thailand’s own sweetheart, ‘Lisa’ Lalisa Manoba, who despite rapping for a South Korean K-pop group, Blackpink, is actually Thai herself (a masterful bit of casting from Mike White). The Thai luxury hype will only grow from here on out.
![[After boutique by the beach? This resort might be just what you need]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/03/08/newFile.jpg)
Thai luxury isn’t exclusively for the super rich though, and it’s much more than just minimalist design and swanky toiletries these days. The evolving scene is taking eco-issues to heart, while local hotels increasingly provide unique perspectives on their location, whether that’s honing in on identity that’s steeped in tradition, culinary treats or the lush natural surroundings. Luxury in Thailand might be rich in culture but it’s a lot more affordable than you would think – with price tags up to 50 per cent less than their European and North American counterparts.
![[High-life: Bold rooms at The Standard in Bangkok come at surprisingly good prices]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/02/15/newFile-7.jpg)
