Phu Quoc Island is the up and coming hot destination for the well-heeled traveler. Vietnam’s largest island and has just become a rival for the next best island vacation with the 2017 opening of the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. This resort is perfect for the “been there, done that” traveler and is an experience unlike any other.
Five years ago, Phu Quoc opened its first international airport, ushering in a slew of tourist and new hotel developments. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island is all you can ask for in a tropical haven. With swaying palm trees on white sand beaches, clear blue waters and friendly island people, the environment brings to mind other getaways like Bora Bora, Tahiti or Turks and Caicos.
The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay finally opened its doors this spring, with its design impressing even the most worldly of guests. Upon entering the resort, visitors will spot two-story high twin dogs guarding the entrance. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the staff outfitted in 1920 period costumes that double as their daily uniforms. The inspired décor includes a grand foyer with an open-air atrium, completed by 30-foot high cathedral ceilings and a suspended couch as the centerpiece. It is the design masterpiece of Bill Bensley, built to resemble the 19th-century British college, Lamarck University. Bensley took this reference and created a resort with the history of the university evident in each of the resort’s residences, restaurants, and common areas.
For those who aren't familiar with his work, Bill Bensley is at the top of his field when it comes to designing memorable resorts throughout Asia. He is akin to a Willy Wonka or Edward Scissorhands in terms of his architectural genius, and develops projects that are often unforgettable. In each of his properties you’ll find both contemporary and classically Asian design created by the finest building materials, as well as a comfortable and luxurious vacation environment. The design of his resorts becomes just as much a part of the five-star holiday experience as the resort’s superb setting, dining and service.
The Rue de Lamark is the main lane that runs through the heart of the resort. Flanking each side of the avenue are art galleries, high end boutiques, a gym and the resort spa. The design of this area is inspired by the traditional Vietnamese town Hoi An, with terracotta roofs, amber-colored walls and hand painted murals, many of which resemble colorful billboard advertisements from the 1920s.
Each of the resort's 244 units is special in its own right, with elevated ceilings, top-of-the-line amenities, electronics, and custom furnishings. Bold wall prints, paintings, and furniture adorn each space to make them unique. In the deluxe suite, the king-sized bed faces floor-to-ceiling widows that provide exquisite views of sunrises and the bay below. The bathrooms are equally as stunning, with a marble wet area, claw foot soaking tub and a rainwater shower. On the outdoor terrace there is a sunken Sala complete with an oversized sofa, which is perfect for watching the stars at night or for the incredible sunrises in the east.
The Turquoise Suite is 900 square-meters, with bright turquoise walls adorned with high end artwork and sculptures. There is a plunge pool and outdoor sitting area that resembles a bastion of a castle with a day bed for lounging, or perhaps sharing a bottle of champagne at night.
Expect the dining experience to be just as memorable and creative as the rest of the vacation. There are several restaurants and bistros on the property, each serving an eclectic mix of international cuisines and local dishes. Tempus Fugit (which translates to ‘time flies’) is the all-day dining restaurant, serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine, contemporary Japanese fare and classic French dishes. Breakfast is exquisite; expect to see 16 live cooking stations offering everything from Vietnamese pho to sushi.
The Department of Chemistry is the place to go if you're hankering for a little nightlife. Imaginative libations are expertly crafted by their top mixologist who specialize in cocktail culture. The bar isn't just a hot spot for cocktails, however. It also makes for a great place to spend the evening for a night of live jazz and seafood barbeque.
There’s plenty to do in Phu Quoc both on and off the resort. Positioned along a cove, the beaches have gentle waves perfect for swimming, stand up paddle boarding or a variety of other water sports. There are also three massive pools and plenty of activities for the children thanks to the hotel's extensive kids program.
One must-have experience is a visit to the Spa by JW. The décor is a decadent meld of rich colors, textures, and design elements. Each of the spa’s eight treatment rooms are equipped with a private rainforest shower, steam room and sauna. The therapies range widely from modern European experiences to traditional Asian healing techniques.
The JW Marriott Phu Quoc offers a one-of-kind idyllic island retreat. The memorable design of the resort is in perfect harmony with the top-notch accommodations, cuisine, and level of service expected of the luxury hotel brand. The resort is expected to be recognized as one of the top resorts in Asia, which is convenient considering its covetable location on Phu Quoc.
