On the site of the now closed Lamarck university, or so the story goes, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc is built around a theme of the academic. Those former students had it good – the hotel rests on the shore of its own private bay, reputedly Phu Quoc’s best beach, with three superb restaurants catering for the discerning diner of all tastes, and lush, tastefully decorated rooms.
With every minute detail lending itself to the theme, from dusty old British tomes of Zoology and Cricket, to antique weighing scales in one its cafes, the JW Marriott is a journey of wit and whimsy and the perfect place to forget your inner city woes and indulge in utter fantasy. Escapism is very much the watchword here.
Idea
Bear with us here. The JW Marriott is based around a fictional university and none of this story is half-hearted. Every tiny component plays to the narrative. Each building is billed as ‘department’, with architecture and furnishings designed to reflect the subject of study. Botanicals and zoology have striking visual impact, with life size elephant statues looming over the entrance, and art work of animal anatomy creating an immersive experience. Ex-‘students’ with tongue in cheek names watch over you as you eat and a ‘class timetable’ is presented on arrival with activities. I’m sure you get the picture. If role play isn’t your thing however, the stunning beach and fresh local produce served in the restaurants bring plenty of rest, relaxation and replenishment.
Location
Situated on the southern tip of Phu Quoc island, a 20 minute drive from the airport, and a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, mainland Vietnam, the hotel is easily accessible for a short getaway. The hotel sits on a pristine beach that is perhaps the most beautiful on the island, all bright white sand and turquoise sea. Idyllic.
Décor
The JW Marriott doesn’t do things in half measures. The attention to detail and care put into the university theme is highly commendable and renowned architect Bill Bensley has executed the dream with precision. Once you learn about the theme of the hotel, you notice it everywhere you look. The lobby area sets the tone, with an enormous bronze trophy the centre piece, and endless other relics of centuries old study greeting you at every turn.
Rooms
There are in total 243 rooms including suites and villas, all which are spacious, luxurious and downright heavenly. Pillows you can sink into and a bed which moulds itself to a figure makes it very difficult to leave. We stayed in the Zoology department which had a sensational view of the bay at sunrise encouraging us to be early birds. The bathroom is larger than most people’s homes, with a massive tub and sink for both him and her. The rooms have all the mod cons, you can even hookup your device to the multimedia TV.
Food & Drink
There are three restaurants, all offering a unique style and design. Our favourite of the trio is Red Rum, which serves up the freshest local seafood right next to the ocean. Check out our full review of it here.
Tempus Fugit, translated as time flies – very apt for this place! – hosts a breakfast so rich in choice that you’re in danger of serious over eating. Sushi, dumplings, crepes, waffles, roast beef, pork belly, croissants, cheese, charcueterie – the list could go on and on. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner, with international offerings rubbing shoulders with Vietnamese classics.
The third joint, French & Co, pays homage to the days of French colonialism in Vietnam, with superb pastries, croque monsieurs and a fine selection of tea and coffee.
A ‘chemistry’ lesson is provided in the Department of Chemistry bar where the consumption of alcohol is given further added fun through vessels like test tubes and pipettes.
Facilities
The Department of Sport offers both a well equipped, air conditioned gym and outdoor activities such as kayaking and yoga.
The Spa is a reason to visit in itself, with beautifully furnished rooms and a wide range of treatments on offer. Start with a sauna or steam room, then move onto a full body aromatherapy massage. Leave feeling refreshed and invigorated. A superb experience.
Why Go
The JW Marriott Phu Quoc takes escapism to a whole new level. Immerse yourself in finding a new you, and luxuriate in the nostalgia of your student days. Forget the toils of normal life and regress into your youth. A wonderful, whimsical experience.
To book visit: www.marriott.com
Disclosure: IDEAL stayed as a guest of the hotel