The White Lotus Is Inspiring Travel – And Mischief – According To New Survey

A new survey from GetYourGuide reveals just how deeply HBOs “The White Lotus” is influencing Americans travel habits, and the findings suggest that fans arent just dreaming of five-star resorts — theyre seeking mischief, adventure, and authentic cultural experiences inspired by the shows drama-filled storylines and beautiful international settings.

According to the survey of 1,000 U.S. fans of “The White Lotus”, conducted by Wakefield Research, 75% say the series has influenced their travel choices more than any other TV show. More than two-thirds (68%) plan to visit filming locations such as Hawaii, Italy, or Thailand, with nearly a third (31%) having already done so because of the show’s influence.

“Its been widely reported that The White Lotus is driving the set-jetting trend and influencing many peoples travel decisions today, but we wanted to know how far people are willing to go to vacation like the shows characters,” said Madison Pietrowski, GetYourGuide’s Director of Brand in the U.S. “We found that the peaceful vacation is dead. Fans are more interested in having visceral and thrilling experiences than they are in unwinding by the pool.”

In fact, 91% say theyre actively seeking mischief during their travels, and over half (55%) say it’s important that their trip mirror scenes from the show — minus the criminal activity. One in four fans even admitted theyd be willing to go into debt to live out a “White Lotus”-style escape.

Despite the drama they seek, fans appear more grounded than the shows fictional tourists. Rather than chasing pure luxury, many respondents expressed a desire for meaningful experiences: connecting with locals, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and sampling regional cuisine ranked higher than high-end indulgences.

Many fans also see their “White Lotus”-inspired trip as an opportunity for personal transformation, selecting travel motivators like “awakening my mind to expand my horizons,” “testing my limits,” and “exploring my sensual and fiery side.” Still, image matters — 71% of respondents say theyd want to post about the trip on social media, showing that curated Instagram moments are just as important as the experience itself.

For travelers ready to book their own Mediterranean or tropical misadventure, GetYourGuide is offering curated experiences in key filming locations. Top-rated guided tours include a Thai cooking class with locals in Koh Samui; an Ang Thong day cruise from Koh Samui; a wine and food tasting on Mount Etna in Taormina, Sicily; an opera performance at the Nazarena Theater in Taormina; snorkeling excursions in Mauis Molokini Crater; and a Road to Hana helicopter and waterfall tour in Maui.

As the appetite for “main-character energy” travel continues to grow, it seems that the shows influence is extending far beyond the screen — and into suitcases around the country.