Explore paradise at the southernmost tip of Vietnams largest island, Phu Quoc and experience a bio-diverse National Park featuring mountains, dense tropical jungle, hiking trails, wildlife and miles of golden and white beaches close by to JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. Duong Dong, is the largest town nearby, with a day and night markets selling crafts and produce for all to enjoy. Don’t forget, you have the chance to win this buck list adventure courtesy of SUNDAY SOMEWHERE along with JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, Quintessentially Travel & The Beach People: ENTER HERE

STAY

On our bucket list for Phu Quoc is the JW Marriott Emerald Bay - designed by Bangkok-based architect, Bill Bensley, the more than 200 room hotel has been designed with no budget restriction and an unlimited degree of creativity. The unique property features 234 rooms, a mixture of suites and villas one for every mood. So which room? The hotel has several categories to choose from, including Emerald Bay View, Deluxe Emerald Bay View, Le Jardin (which opens out onto the incredibly beautiful gardens), and seven villas – two one-bedroomed, and five three-bedroomed. However, the standout is the Turquoise Suites. Nearly 1000sq feet, they include a large living space, opulent bedroom with four-poster bed, bathroom with twin sinks, twin showers and free-standing roll-top bath, Aromatherapy Associates toiletries, and a long terrace overlooking the beach. The décor is immensely soothing and very hard to leave.

If you can't decide on which room to select, you can work with a Travel Specialist from Quintessentially Travel to assist in all aspects of planning your trip to Vietnam. Whether you are looking to arrange a family holiday, book the ultimate romantic getaway or embark on a journey beyond your wildest imagination the Travel Specialists at Quintessentially Travel can cater to all your travel requirements from the moment you start planning your adventure to the moment you return and everything in between. With offices everywhere, they can take you anywhere under the sun - all 196 countries to be specific. 

DO

When you do decide to leave your amazing room at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay (no rush though, take your time) there’s plenty of mindful activities to participate in via the resort's workshops.

Discover… the ancient art of Vietnamese lantern making via the work shop and craft your own Hoi An style silk lantern

Take a mindful break…surf yoga AKA stand-up paddleboard yoga in the calm waters of Emerald Bay overlooking the floating fishing village, rugged landscape and the resort.

The spice of life… learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes such as Pho and rice paper summer rolls, get a deeper understanding of Vietnamese cuisine, indigenous herbs and how it plays a significant role in Vietnamese culture during the resort’s cooking lesson.

Mix it up… learn with the chemists in the Department of Chemistry and pick up the craft of artisan cocktails in the resorts bar.

Wander… around the resort and take in all the street art, antiques and artifacts, traditional architecture and stroll along Emerald Bay, the resort’s private beach.

SEE

Phu Quoc Night Market… must-visit for travellers on Phu Quoc Island, offering a plethora of dining and shopping opportunities until late, perfect for souvenirs 

Ho Quoc Pagoda… the Buddhist temple built on a remote stretch of coastal road with the best views of any temple in Vietnam, overlooking blue sky and the water off of Bai Dam Beach which frame the temple-gate eaves.

Phu Quoc Vinpearl Safari… Vietnam’s largest wildlife conservation park, the first and only open zoo in the country

EAT

Tempus Fugit

Meaning “time flies” in English, this all-day dining restaurant offers a trio of culinary experiences, showcasing Vietnamese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients alongside a contemporary Japanese kitchen and classic French dishes. Being based in the Department of Architecture Tempus Fugit boasts interiors inspired by the basic principles of architecture all of which guide the guest’s eye’s to the stunning view over Emerald Bay.

Pink Pearl 

Interiors ooze retro glamour with a bold mix of pinks, sumptuous prints, artefacts, extravagant gilt-framed portraits and a grandioso central chandelier, all crafted bespoke for the space evoking memories of the roaring twenties. Combining premium local products and a farm-to-table ethos, the menu showcases signature dishes such as: Snakehead Fish Matelote; Charolaise Beef Pithivier; and the extravagantly indulgent masterpiece Opera Sphere Marou Chocolate. 

Red Rum 

Serving an elaborate selection of fresh local seafood, burgers and light bites for sociable sharing meals in a relaxed setting by the beach. Guests are often found lounging here sipping coconut cocktails in their swimwear after a day on the beach or beside the shell pool.

Images courtesy of JW Marriott Emerald Bay Phu Quoc