The White Lotus effect continues to inspire set-jetters to visit the dreamy destinations featured in the popular streaming show with Hawai’i, Sicily, and now Thailand experiencing a bookings boost from the series. Closer to home, a domestic destination offers The White Lotus vibes minus the price tag.
RAA Travel data reveals Queensland is tapping into The White Lotus popularity and inspiring South Australians to travel to the Sunshine State to experience their own tropical escape closer to home.
Over the last 12 months, the Sunshine Coast has seen the largest increase of RAA Travel bookings – up 32 per cent, while Hamilton Island is up 19 per cent and Airlie Beach bookings have increased by 18 per cent compared to last year.
Indonesia is RAA Travel’s top-booked destination overall – up 15 per cent YOY.
RAA Travel General Manager Gina Norman said the trifecta of Queensland’s tropical hotspots provide a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and is only a short flight for South Australians.
“We’re marvelling at the real-time effect of The White Lotus. Thailand is currently the seventh-most popular international destination booked at RAA Travel, but we can see many travellers are looking to experience their own ‘White Lotus’ moment without the price tag,” she said.
“With rising cost-of-living impacting many across the nation, it’s clear more holidaymakers are searching for a tropical holiday, which won’t hurt their wallet.
RAA Travel tips the adults-only Hamilton Island Beach Club, luxury Niramaya Villas and Spa in Port Douglas and Qualia as some of the locations to have a White Lotus experience in TNQ.
“And, in just a short few hours, you can experience that luxury in your own backyard, without the cost of an international airfare,” Norman said.
