The much-anticipated finale of The White Lotus season three aired on Sunday, leaving fans eager for more. HBO executives are equally enthusiastic about the show's return. However, before the creator and showrunner, Mike White, embarks on the next season, he may benefit from a well-deserved vacation. The choice of his getaway destination could be intriguing, considering his complicated relationship with the Four Seasons brand, which he has called both “home” and “set” in recent years.
As discussions about a potential season four unfold, scouting locations has yet to commence. Yet, speculation is rife about where the next five-star murder mystery will take place. Despite limited information from those associated with the show or its location partners, several clues have emerged. For instance, producer David Bernad hinted at White's preference for warmer climates, stating, “Mike just wouldn’t want to be in the cold. He hates it.” Additionally, White himself mentioned that filming in Paris would feel “like a cop-out.” These insights suggest that locations in colder areas, including Paris, are off the table.
The Four Seasons hotel chain has more than 130 properties worldwide, and while some have been eliminated based on White's preferences, the search for a filming location continues. A spokesperson for the Four Seasons noted, “We’ll be deferring to HBO for any details or commentary around the upcoming season and filming locations.” HBO representatives have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the new season.
While White's aversion to cold weather seems clear, it does not guarantee that the series will continue its trend of oceanfront settings. In the official podcast following the season finale, White expressed a desire to explore different themes, stating he’d like to “get a little bit out of the crashing waves of rocks vernacular.”
Financial incentives are crucial in determining the filming location for season four. The production has benefited from tax credits in previous seasons, which were filmed in Hawaii, Italy, and Thailand. For instance, filming in Sicily offers a tax incentive of at least 30 percent, along with an additional subsidy of up to 20 percent for shooting costs on the island. Bernad mentioned that the shift from Southern France to Italy was influenced by HBO's suggestion to consider the Four Seasons in Taormina, Sicily, due to these generous incentives.
Thailand, too, became a prime location after the government approved a scheme offering 30 percent back on production costs, equating to approximately $4.4 million for season two. Such regions not only provide stunning visuals rarely seen in films and TV shows but also offer lower labor costs and favorable exchange rates.
If the producers are seeking a change of scenery, certain areas in Norway could be appealing, albeit without a Four Seasons hotel. The production had previously applied for funding to film in Norway, being granted $7 million for the third season, but ultimately chose Thailand instead. A plot suggestion could involve a dramatic storyline reminiscent of Force Majeure.
Japan is another strong contender, especially as White had initially scouted locations there before Thailand's financial incentives swayed the decision. The country recently introduced a reimbursement scheme that allows up to 50 percent of qualifying expenditures to be covered, thus attracting numerous productions.
Travel advisor Nick Cosinteno of Live Luxe Travel Co. has insights into potential filming locations, suggesting that if season four were to take place in Japan, the Four Seasons in Kyoto or Osaka would be ideal. However, he also predicts a location “somewhere closer to the U.S.,” speculating that Tamarindo in Mexico could be a frontrunner. This location offers seclusion, luxury amenities, and a design aesthetic fitting for the show's themes.
Other notable options include the gated luxury resort of Punta Mita and the Four Seasons Resort in Anguilla, both of which maintain the coastal vibe of previous seasons. While Los Angeles is off the table for White, there are local suggestions including Palm Beach and The Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, which could capture the right ambiance for the series.
As discussions about potential locations continue, Australia, Ghana, and South Africa are also on the radar, each offering substantial subsidies for hosting productions. Mike White has expressed interest in exploring diverse settings, hinting at the possibility of filming on every continent. “We kind of have to come to Australia if we keep going,” he stated at Sydney’s Vivid Festival.
In summary, while the exact filming location for season four of The White Lotus remains unconfirmed, the possibilities are exciting and varied. With strong financial incentives and a desire for fresh narratives, fans can anticipate yet another enthralling season that promises to captivate audiences around the globe.
