While the latest season of The White Lotus has continued to divide fans, there’s one thing everyone can agree on – the stunning Thai island setting is the real star of the show.
The idyllic island of Koh Samui – Thailand’s second largest after Phuket – is where the HBO hit was filmed, and thanks to one savvy traveller, we now know how to stay there without spending a single penny on accommodation. TikTok user Iona (@ionatravels) has gone viral after sharing how she ditched the UK for a tropical lifestyle on the island, swapping her 9 to 5 for sunshine, sandy beaches, and surprisingly a whole lot of dog cuddles.
In her videos, Iona reveals that she used the volunteer exchange platform Worldpackers to set herself up in Koh Samui, where she stayed for two months while volunteering at a local dog sanctuary.
“You can exchange your skills for free accommodation and even sometimes free activities too,” she told followers, adding that the experience allowed her to travel “as cheaply as possible for as long as possible”.
And it turns out the perks go far beyond just a free place to stay. Iona listed a host of bonuses: from language lessons and free parties to yoga sessions, tours, transport, and – of course – long beach days.
“[You get] free accommodation in such a beautiful non-touristy part of Koh Samui in exchange for giving the sweetest dogs in the world a happier life,” she said.
The only requirements? You need to be over 18 and happy to volunteer around 25 hours a week, with one day off guaranteed. In return, you get to live like a local, give back to the community, and soak up the serenity of island life.
Worldpackers currently offers placements in over 140 countries, with options ranging from turtle conservation in Costa Rica to teaching English in Indonesia.
Iona showed how easy it was to get started: create a profile, choose a destination, message a host, and you’re “good to go.”
Clips on her TikTok show her daily routine in paradise: walking dogs through lush greenery, chilling on palm-fringed beaches, and making friends from around the world.
“This has been a life-changing experience,” she wrote in the caption — and fans were quick to agree.
“Living on an island for free is legit the dream,” one person commented.
“It looks like you’ve had the best two months ever,” added another.
“Omgggg, manifesting I can do this,” said a third.
If White Lotus has you dreaming of tropical escapes, Iona’s got the ultimate travel hack – and it doesn’t require a fortune. Just a bit of time, some helping hands, and a love for adventure (and dogs).
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