Category: Phu Quoc

Love is in the air this February, as couples all around the world seek creative ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s sparkling “Pearl Island,” Romeos and Juliets are invited to embark on an enchanting adventure with a choice of truly spectacular activities that are sure to fan the flames of passion and make memories that last a lifetime.

Glistening like a jewel in the tropical turquoise sea, Phu Quoc is a dream destination where the unparalleled scenery, captivating culture and world-class attractions come together to create magical moments. For loved ones, this promises priceless opportunities for romance. Here is a selection of the most soul-stirring new experiences that are ready to delight couples this Valentine’s Day…

Savor a highly exclusive Valentine’s dinner at the Campanile Clock Tower

Inspired by St Mark’s Campanile in Venice, Phu Quoc’s highest clock tower rises 75 metres in Sunset Town and is crowned by an exclusive top floor fine-dining venue, which forms part of the newly-opened La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton. On 14^th February, and for the first time this year, the hotel’s talented chefs will showcase a sublime seven-course degustation menu. Following pre-dinner drinks at Il Salone at 5pm, guests will be escorted to Campanile at 6pm for an elegant evening of gastronomy, overlooking the sea and the iconic Kiss Bridge, accompanied with fine wines, chocolate pralines and roses.

With only up to four tables available, this highly intimate culinary journey is priced at VND 9,999,999++ per couple. Alternatively on 17^th & 24^th February (5pm – 8pm), guests can savour a “Sunset Soiree” at the Campanile Clock Tower, featuring decadent canapés and premium drinks from the Oyster, Caviar & Bottega Bar, priced at VND 2,000,000++ per person.

Be inspired by the spectacular new “Kiss of the Sea” show

The perfect Valentine’s Day should embrace moments of shared bliss that bring two souls closer together. The brand new “Kiss of the Sea” show at Sunset Town is an awe-inspiring theatrical performance that will live in the hearts of guests for years to come. This ethereal, elemental experience blends water, fire, lasers, light and music, as up to 60 international artists perform live on stage, set against the dramatic backdrop of Phu Quoc’s Kiss Bridge and the endless ocean. A timeless tale of romance is elevated to the stars as a local boy from Phu Quocfalls in love with a girl from the centre of the galaxy who mysteriously arrives on Earth through a Black Hole. In a tale of love, unity and wonder, our main characters must rise to conquer the looming darkness threatening Earth and the galaxy.

Culminating with a spectacular every night fireworks display that light up the entire sky and sea, this sensational show captures the passion and drama that define this exhilarating time of year, creating an unforgettable evening for all guests.

Prices start from 41 USD per person, every day from 9 pm in Sunset Town.

Feel the serenity of Vietnam’s only sunrise & sunset spot

With its unique position at Ong Doi Cape, an exquisite isthmus which is blessed with two stretches of seafront, Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort is the only resort in Vietnam where it is possible to watch the sunrise and sunset at the same spot. Couples who book the resort’s breath-taking Eden Retreat will be surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, with interiors that exude modern luxury and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame extraordinary ocean vistas in every direction. Every stay includes complimentary therapies at Plumeria, the heavenly hilltop spa.

Alternatively, for the ultimate escape in paradise, the romantic Rock Villa is perched on a cliff and showcases 600 square metres of contemporary space, four bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a private garden and a shimmering infinity pool overlooking the entire bay – ideal for heartfelt getaways with family or friends.

Rates start from USD 267 net per room per night.

Celebrate love and romance with “Kiss Bridge Day” in Sunset Town

Phu Quoc’s enchanting Kiss Bridge opened in December and instantly captivated visitors with its unique design and romantic aura. As the world marks the “month of love,” the Kiss Bridge Day will be staged on 22^nd February, inviting couples and families to celebrate their love for each other with a series of immersive activities. Guests can look forward to a day of inspiring art shows, including the serene sounds of a live saxophone and dazzling dances from international performers.

Every aspect of the Kiss Bridge exudes the warm glow of love. The inside of the bridge is even engraved with 394 verses and immortal love songs from 22 countries around the world, which are illuminated every night. Then, as day turns to night, this iconic attraction is silhouetted by the beautiful sunset.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s idyllic Pearl Island, is set to step into an exciting new era in 2024 as it invites the world’s travellers to discover a series of exciting new tourism experiences, including an iconic bridge, vibrant multimedia shows, cultural attractions and a brand-new internationally-branded five-star resort. Once upon a time, Phu Quoc was a sleepy fishing island with idyllic beaches but very little to offer the small number of intrepid tourists, who made the trip when the only direct flight came from Ho Chi Minh City. But in recent years, the “Pearl Island” (as it’s known to Vietnamese) has been transformed into a vibrant and exciting destination.

Now, travellers from all across the globe are flying into Phu Quoc International Airport, lured not just by the pristine white sands and azure waters, but also by a range of captivating new tourism experiences and sumptuous five-star resorts managed by the world’s leading hotel brands. What’s more, the island, which is blessed with an advantageous climate that means it’s a destination all-year round, regularly plays host to major events and music festivals – one of the world’s most popular bands, Maroon 5 performed to 12,000 people at Grand World Phu Quoc on December 16 and through the festive period, a series of fun festivals and lavish parties are being held all around the island. For those looking for a comprehensive travel experience, a Vietnam holiday package can make your trip to Phu Quoc even more memorable.

Indeed, with so much to see and do, there is no better time for couples, families and friends to visit Phu Quoc and discover why this popular tropical island is being touted as one of the world’s hottest destinations for 2024 and beyond!

Revel in the beauty of the new Kiss Bridge

Nestled on the coast in Sunset Town, close to Phu Quoc’s southern tip, the Kiss Bridge is an ingenious architectural creation, crafted by the acclaimed Italian architect Marco Casamonti. This exquisite landmark features two 400-metre-long pathways that stretch out over the rippling water and meet in the middle, just 30cm apart – so two lovers can lean over for a kiss! Set against the beautiful backdrop of the sea and sunset, this breath-taking bridge was designed to evoke a timeless message about love and the connection between people, nature and the universe. Officially opening in December, the Kiss Bridge has already become one of Asia’s most Instagrammable locations!

Uncover Phu Quoc’s cultural heritage at VUI-Fest Bazaar, Vietnam’s first night market by the sea

After a day of catching rays on the beach, you can explore the rich heritage of Phu Quoc at the newly created VUI-Fest Bazaar, the first night market by the sea concept of its kind in Vietnam. As the sun sets over Sunset Town, this vibrant bazaar comes alive with more than 40 stalls, theatrical performances, interactive art shows, sizzling street food and more! It’s a fiesta of fun where shoppers can also discover a wide range of locally produced goods, including clothing, artworks, handcrafted gifts, and other original souvenirs. VUI-Fest Bazaar is also an eco-friendly event with no single-use plastic bags or drinking straws.

Feel the spirit of Italy’s Amalfi coast at La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton

In recent years, Phu Quoc has continually raised the bar for luxury accommodations. The latest addition is La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton, a brand-new five-star resort that exudes Mediterranean elegance and overlooks a pristine beach and Kiss Bridge. Inspired by the vibe of Italy’s Amalfi coast, this stunning seafront resort showcases 197 bright, sunlit rooms and suites, plus a selection of shimmering pools, a soothing spa, fitness centre and kids’ club. The Italian style also flows through the restaurants, which include Mare, an authentic ristorante, Il Salone, the palazzo-inspired lounge, and La Capri Beach Club, which is a chic spot to unwind through the day and night.

Be dazzled by the “Kiss of the Sea” multimedia show and daily fireworks!

In Phu Quoc, the fireworks don’t only light up the sky on New Year’s Eve – they are ready to dazzle visitors all-year-round! “Kiss of the Sea” is a spectacular new multimedia show that is held every evening at Sunset Town. Projected on a specially designed stage with a water screen almost 1,000 square metres in size, this 25-minute performance will whisk you away through space and time into a world of fantasy to witness a dramatic clash between darkness and light, fire and water. Every nightly show also culminates with fantastic fireworks display that will always wow the audience.

Discover a collection of world-class resorts

Elsewhere, a series of award-winning hotels and resorts, including JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, New World Phu Quoc Resort, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, and Premier Village Phu Quoc have all helped to put the island on the map for luxury tourism. It has also been reported that Marriott International will be the next hotelier to follow with plans underway to develop Vietnam’s first ever Ritz-Carlton Reserve and Luxury Collection branded resort on Phu Quoc.

Enjoy an unforgettable ride on a cable-car

Having been named on TIME Magazine’s list of the “Top 100 Greatest Places in the World”, and as one of Condé Nast Traveler’s “World’s Top Islands” in 2023, Phu Quoc has been described as ‘paradise for everyone’. Indeed, last but not least, you and your loved ones can also take a thrilling cable-car ride, which travels for 7,899.9 metres from the south of the island over the shimmering sea to Hon Thom Island, where you can find more stunning beaches as well as a nature park and water park with fun rides for people of all ages.

Family adventures are among our most cherished moments. For parents, they offer precious opportunities to get away from the world and spend quality time with loved ones in paradise, while for kids, they set the stage for exciting explorations, making new friends and even discovering a lifelong passion. Simply stepping through the doors of Regent Phu Quoc, IHG Hotels & Resorts’ jewel on Vietnam’s “Pearl Island,” provides an escape from the everyday. From private pool villas to creative cuisine, immersive activities and so much more, this resort will transport discerning families on a journey into a tropical world of wonder.

Regent Phu Quoc – Luxurious Family Sanctuaries

The artfully-designed pool villas at Regent Phu Quoc are personal havens where families can stay together in complete comfort and privacy. With between one and seven bedrooms, open-plan indoor and outdoor living spaces, glistening 25 – to 123-sqm private pools and breath-taking views of the Gulf of Thailand or the tropical gardens, these hideaways provide everything guests need to feel relaxed, revitalised, and re-energised. Private dining areas provide opportunities to share unexpected tastes overlooking the ocean, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems enable cosy moments of warmth – cuddling up with loved ones to watch a movie.

Regent Phu Quoc – Inspiring Children Activities

Curated activities empower all families to stay and play on their own terms. On top of their private amenities, the resort’s oasis features five pools, including a kids’ pool, and provides endless opportunities to swim and splash. On the Long Beach, young guests will love the regular treasure hunts, sandcastle competitions, water gun fun and more. Parents can also leave their little ones in the expert care of the professionally-trained team at the kids’ club, who will create entertaining and educational activities, inspired by the nature, culture and spirit of Phu Quoc.

Regent Phu Quoc – Immersive Aquatic Adventures

The sea sets the stage for exhilarating adventures. All ages can feel the spray of the ocean with windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding and dinghy sailing, and the underwater world comes alive with snorkelling trips. For truly unforgettable family escapes, Serenity, Regent Phu Quoc’s luxury yacht, offers coastline cruises to secluded bays, where guests can swim and snorkel in the sea – the ultimate experience for older children seeking a fresh view of the world. Private charters are also available.

Regent Phu Quoc – Exotic Island Explorations

Intrepid explorers can also head out and uncover the hidden treasures of Phu Quoc, an exotic wilderness comprising 99 peaks, 28 islands and 20 beaches, as well as charming fishing villages that provide a unique glimpse into the culture of life in Vietnam’s “Pearl Island.” After a long day of discovery, the resort’s Health Club offers holistic wellness therapies for parents and children alike, including deeply soothing aloe vera massages – wonderfully revitalizing after a day of fun in the sun.

Regent Phu Quoc – Creative Culinary Journeys

Families can embark on exciting epicurean journeys together at Regent Phu Quoc. A haven of gastronomy, this five-star resort offers a collection of artfully curated culinary venues including Oku, the signature restaurant that serves contemporary Japanese-French cuisine, and Rice Market, an atmospheric marketplace that elevates the humblest Asian ingredients – rice and noodles – to new levels of excellence. Bar Jade is a hidden speakeasy cocktail bar with a cosmopolitan vibe, and the Lobby Lounge sets the scene for relaxing daytime drinks and evening refreshments. For the ultimate sunset moments, Ocean Club is nestled on the shore and specialises in Mediterranean plates and spectacular seafood platters, and Fu Bar is perched elegantly on the rooftop, with sweeping views of the island and sea through panoramic windows.

A selection of fresh menu items has been crafted especially for families, such as Rice Market’s Blue Crab Fried Rice, which uses the best Vietnamese rice, ST25, and will transport diners’ taste buds to a traditional fishing village, and a sensational Vietnamese Wagyu Beef Salad. At Ocean Club, the Barbecued Seafood Tower showcases the world’s finest fruits de mer including whole Phu Quoc lobster, Irish oysters, Japanese scallops and much more, served with a selection of sauces, and the Australian Wagyu Beef Tomahawk, a decadent 1.3kg prime cut of beef with Vietnamese seasonings.

“At Regent Phu Quoc, we understand that every family is unique. That’s why we promise a curated collection of breath-taking pool villas, bespoke services and immersive activities for children of all ages, from tots to teens – and of course, their parents – so every family can share the most private and inspiring experiences on the island,” said Sriram Kailasam, Regent Phu Quoc’s General Manager.

Under the “Stay and Dine” package, families can now book an unforgettable escape at Regent Phu Quoc, including daily buffet breakfast plus three-course lunches and dinners at the Ocean Club or Rice Market. With every paying adult, a child under 12 can dine for free for all bookings made between now and 30^th September 2023.

To learn more about Regent Phu Quoc, please visit https://phuquoc.regenthotels.com

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc is the first international premium resort to open along Phu Quoc’s idyllic Ong Lang Beach and is poised to become the destination of choice for family adventures, company trips, dream weddings, romantic honeymoons, and more. The hotel features 305 guestrooms, while the adjacent Mövenpick Residences Phu Quoc offers 329 apartment-style residences and 79 pool villas, perfect for families or extended stays. While the hotel’s service excellence draws from Mövenpick’s Swiss heritage, the heart-felt hospitality delivered by its staff is a clear reflection of the warm and friendly nature of the local Vietnamese culture.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc – Location & Design

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc and Mövenpick Residence Phu Quoc is located at 1 Ong Lang Beach, Cua Duong Village, Phu Quoc, Vietnam, a 35-minute transfer from Phu Quoc International Airport. The island is a one-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City, two hours from Hanoi, and connected with direct routes from Bangkok, Seoul, and Singapore.

Designed with a tropical style, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc harmoniously blends modern and traditional touches with plenty of natural light streamed through full-sized windows. The contemporary guestrooms feature an elegant interior in soothing neutral tones. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to private balconies in each hotel room, offering sweeping views of the shimmering sea or verdant mountains.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc – The Rooms

For both long-term stays and weekend getaways, Mövenpick Residences Phu Quoc features studios and family rooms, each equipped with a kitchenette. The resort complex also features 66 two-bedroom and three-bedroom pool villas nestled around the lake, while the 12 three-bedroom pool villas and the Presidential Villa offer beachfront views where you can enjoy the evening sunset.

Rooms range from a spacious 35 square metres to an expansive 72 square metres for a Junior Suite. Modern in-room comforts include complimentary high-speed WiFi, a pillow menu, and a fully-stocked minibar.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc – Dining Options

Mövenpick’s rich culinary legacy is evident in the extraordinary dining experiences available in the hotel’s restaurants and bars, including a beach club perched on the golden sands of Ong Lang Beach. Open for both guests and visitors, Aura Beach Club features a sunken pool bar, a delectable Asian Tapas menu, creative mixology, daily sunset ritual and exciting entertainment.

Other culinary delights at the hotel include international cuisine and alive cooking station at The Islander Restaurant; Vietnamese favourites and seafood at Lang Chai; local craft beer at Lang Chai Bar; and Vietnamese tea, coffee & chocolate hour at Waverly Lounge.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc – Facilities & Activities

The family-friendly hotel promises to create meaningful moments for both parents and junior travellers with the Little Birds Club and M Lounge teen club. A Mövenpick Family program ensures the needs of your young ones are met, including age-specific bath amenities and a Power Bites menu.

The resort offers six swimming pools, including two kids’ pools. Other wellness facilities include the Elements Fitness Center which features state-of-the-art equipment and a yoga studio. For some therapeutic me-time, Elements Spa & Salon features 15 treatment rooms, a sauna and a jacuzzi. You can choose from an extensive range of wellness therapies, foot massages, as well as hair and nail treatments.

No small detail is overlooked with weddings and celebrations at Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc. The 720 square metre Coral Ballroom features a column-free space with 6.8-meter-high ceilings and a large 324 square metre foyer that can host up to 860 guests. The ballroom can also be divided into four meeting rooms for smaller group meetings.

The wonderful tropical climate lends itself to an inspired exploration of the island’s lush natural landscape. You and your loved ones can trek through a dense rainforest that leads to a waterfall or bask in the serenity of coconut-shaded beaches. A delicious food tour through the night market, or visits to the pepper farm, pearl farm or fish sauce factory offer glimpses into the local Vietnamese way of life.

Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc – Opening Promotion

To celebrate its launch, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc is offering a weekend getaway offer with rates starting at VND 2.000.000 per night in a Studio Mountain View King room with breakfast for two and a daily credit of VND 1.000.000, which can be redeemed for dining or spa treatments. The opening offer is valid from now until 31^st October 2020.

For reservations, please email resort.phuquoc@movenpick.com or call +84 (0) 297 26 99999. Alternatively, to learn more about Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.movenpick.com.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is delighted to announce Chanterelle – Spa by JW has been named as a Regional Winner in the ”Luxury Emerging Spa” category, in the 2017 edition of the World Luxury Spa Awards, held on 22 July 2017 at the JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi.

“We are honoured to be recognised by the World Luxury Spa Awards, which is a testament to our efforts in creating enriching experiences for JW Marriott in a remarkable setting,” says Ty Collins, General Manager, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. “The award is a strong validation of our team at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, and we would like to thank those who supported us.”

Renowned for its picture-perfect white beaches and fuchsia sunsets, Phu Quoc is a secluded trove in Vietnam off the beaten tourist track. A whimsical property on the idyllic island, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is conceptualised by celebrated architect Bill Bensley and features a unique, larger-than-life design based on the narrative of a mythical academy of learning.

The resort’s flagship spa, Chanterelle – Spa by JW offers an unconventional guest journey that references Alice in Wonderland to create an unparalleled experience in an imaginative space. The interiors play on the unique theme of mushrooms, which have long been recognised for their therapeutic qualities by the French. Chanterelle – Spa by JW is ornate with mushroom-shaped furnishings, hand-painted walls of flora and fauna, and framed biological illustrations of mushrooms displayed across the tall ceilings, which emphasise the fantastical surroundings. Bensley also draws from the childhood fable to incorporate a corridor where asymmetric curves and mirrors create a layering effect that echoes the scene where Alice falls down the rabbit hole.

As a leading spa, Chanterelle – Spa by JW presents an exclusive range of holistic and locally-inspired therapies based on the four pillars of calm, indulge, invigorate, and renew. The treatments are personalised down to the minute detail, allowing guests to craft their own wellness journey. The spa spans seven couple treatment rooms, one exclusive suite (which includes a luxurious VIP body treatment room, dedicated bath with separated steam and sauna), two reflexology rooms, as well as a salon room providing hair styling and nail services for both ladies and gentlemen.

A lush resort that is a destination unto itself, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay embodies the academic narrative across its enriching experiences of true luxury. As the story goes, with the notable rise in the number of athletes in 1970s, the popularity of massages grew. Nurses used massage techniques to reduce their muscle fatigue and aid sleep, and the spa’s signature treatment – 1970s Sports Therapy & Wrap – was born.

The 90-minute therapy focusing on relieving stubborn knots starts with a body wrap using wormwood leaf, and Phu Quoc sea salt and herbs to instantly release muscle pain. As the guest immerses in the wonders of the senses, a one-hour massage follows using a structural integration technique to unwind strain patterns. Through manipulation of these soft tissues, the body is restored to its natural balance and alignment for better posture, while chronic pain is also eased to make everyday activities more pleasant. This age-old technique draws from traditional healing practices rarely found in present day, and requires a specially trained therapist to execute.

Chanterelle – Spa by JW leaves an indelible impression with intuitive offerings such as Thai Yoga Stretching, a body and spirit exercise combining classic Thai movements and controlled breathing to refocus the mind; DIY classes teaching guests to create their own scrubs, bath salts, and facial masks; and a Private Bath Ritual. Available in all room types, the Private Bath Ritual allows guests to experience a taste of the spa in the comfort of their rooms.

Choosing from four themes – Detox Bath, Phu Quoc Signature Bath, Home Sweet Home, and Touch of Romance – the Bath Butler can deliver the ingredients and set up everything needed for a pampering soak in the oversized jetted tubs. Additional touches such as take away pocket guides and a comprehensive retail counter at Chanterelle – Spa by JW allows lingering guests to continue the surreal spa journey at home.

Few names carry more cachet than Bill Bensley’s when it comes to resort design in Asia. Dubbed as the “king of exotic luxury resorts” by TIME Magazine, Bensley has an impressive portfolio of hotel properties that are unconventional and theatrical with an impeccable attention to detail. Bensley’s latest project, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, continues to build on his already impressive legacy with a property that delivers enriching experiences and intuitive service that every JW Marriott guest comes to expect.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay’s design narrative was developed around the concept of a mythical academy of learning, honouring French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck who laid the groundwork for Darwin’s theory of evolution.

The JW Marriott brand is globally renowned for its intuitive service and commitment to providing guests with truly enriching luxurious experiences and the partnership with Bill Bensley complements the designer’s philosophy of creating hotels that demonstrate his passion for learning. His vision is for JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay to become a destination where guests leave inspired.

“Many people consider university to be the most memorable time of their lives,” says Bill Bensley, chief architect and designer of JW Marriott Phu Quoc. “I’ve always wanted to create a resort with this theme because of the profound influence my university studies had on my work. The scale of this project, together with the spectacular setting, gave me the perfect opportunity to bring the story of Lamarck University to life ensuring that guests leave richer than when they arrive, a core expectation for JW Marriott guests.”

Overseeing the master planning and design of the entire property, Bensley separated the enormous site into different zones, all of them connected via the Rue de Lamarck, the main street that extends through the whole resort. The JW Marriott Phu Quoc buildings reflect early 20^th Century style and embrace the traditions of French colonial architecture.

Every detail, down to the decorative elements and associates’ uniforms, have been carefully crafted and considered by Bensley to reinforce the resort’s overarching theme. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback, a native dog breed, is the mascot of the hotel and design details reflecting the mascot can be seen in various areas of the property.

The 244 guestrooms, suites and villas are spread throughout different wings, giving guests the experience of being in their own dedicated section of the resort. Playing on the concept of academia, the accommodation wings are named after different academic departments. Taking full advantage of the idyllic views, all rooms and suites are ocean-facing and include a spacious balcony with sofa seating. Guests staying on the ground level will also have their own private garden and direct access to the three swimming pools of the resort.

Complementing the emerald-colored sea and the lush surrounding landscape, Bensley has picked a palate of warming reds, turquoise, blues and greens for the interiors. Custom-designed furnishings in dark timber and patterned flooring further elevate the sense of comfort and luxury in the rooms, and throughout the resort’s walkway.

Along Rue de Lamarck, traditional shophouses built to resemble the ancient streets of Hoi An highlight a unique blend of Chinese, Japanese and Western architectural influences offering visitors an authentic sense of place. Visitors can stroll the street to find the most exquisite artisanal boutiques, the resort’s varied dining outlets and one of the best spas on Phu Quoc island.

The French have long believed the therapeutic qualities of mushrooms. Playing on this idea, the designer has created an unusual guest experience in Chanterelle – Spa by JW by incorporating references from Alice in Wonderland where mushrooms played a key role. Mushroom-shaped furnishings and hand-painted walls of flora and fauna can be spotted throughout, while framed biological illustrations of mushrooms adorn the interior ceilings, adding to the fantastical and surreal quality of the space. Bensley also took inspiration from the childhood fable for a hidden corridor, where asymmetric arches curve at mirroring angles to create a layering effect, echoing Alice falling down the rabbit hole.

Enriching culinary experiences are at the heart of all JW Marriott hotels, and it’s no exception at JW Marriott Phu Quoc where Tempus Fugit, the all-day dining restaurant. French&Co., the hotel’s pâtisserie and gourmet deli, is reminiscent of a classic French café with its relaxing ambience and interior décor, including the cast iron oven and antique scales.

At Chemistry, the resort’s cocktail bar located by Emerald Bay, guests can relax on one of the swinging daybeds or lounge seats while sipping on signature concoctions by in-house “chemists.” Every detail in the bar was created with a chemistry lab in mind: serving counters are decorated with beakers and scientific instruments; the ceiling is designed with a periodic table and matched with a striking atom-shaped light. Red Rum, the beach grill, boasts a casual vibe in an open-air pavilion and features an intricate hanging chandelier crafted from hundreds of seashells. Finally, The Pink Pearl, housed inside a splendid 2-storey mansion, will be the resort’s beachfront fine dining Cantonese restaurant.

Bensley’s imaginative touch extends beyond the restaurant outlets into the meeting rooms and banqueting facilities. The property’s grand ballroom, named the Lamarck Auditorium, showcases a series of vintage atlases. Meanwhile, the separate meeting spaces each tell a unique, whimsical story such as The Artist, a meeting room inspired by Jackson Pollock’s drip paintings which incorporate a bold lighting fixture constructed from large paint brushes, showcases JW Marriott’s commitment to culture.

To add to the authenticity of the whimsical design, Bensley’s team traveled across Europe multiple times to source over 5,000 original antiques and furniture items for the resort. Guests can expect to discover vintage furniture, teaching paraphernalia, carpentry tools, prints and sketches showcasing the evolution of mankind and nature, as well as other hidden gems throughout the well-crafted and intuitively designed resort.

Shaped by natural beauty, pristine white sand beach and favourable weather year-round; Phu Quoc island is a hidden pearl off the beaten tourist track.  Located 45 kilometres off the southern coast of Vietnam, the island can be reached via a direct 40-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. The resort is a 15-minute drive from Phu Quoc International Airport. For more information, please visit the hotel website.