On October 7, Condé Nast Traveler - one of the world’s leading travel magazines based in the U.S. - announced the winners of its 38th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, among the most respected accolades in the global travel industry, known for its rigorous voting criteria.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is one of the few resorts in Vietnam to receive this honor. In other award categories, Phu Quoc was named the most beautiful island in Asia - ranking in the global top 3, while Vietnam was voted among the world’s top 10 friendliest countries.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort – a Sun Group masterpiece of design and service on the shores of Kem Beach
Designed by legendary architect Bill Bensley, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort sits along Kem Beach, one of the most alluring coastlines on Earth. Beyond its entrance, guarded by statues of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback dog—an island icon—guests are transported into the world of a whimsical, imaginary university, meticulously recreated by Bensley to reflect the late 19th to early 20th century (1880–1940).
This unique concept has helped JW Marriott Phu Quoc become one of the world’s most captivating resorts, with each building designed as a distinct academic faculty—from Botany to Biology—showcasing over 5,000 antiques handpicked by Bensley from around the globe. The result is an atmosphere both nostalgic and enchanting at the heart of Vietnam’s “Pearl Island”.
Pink Pearl – A Premier French Fine Dining Experience
More than just a paradise for relaxation, the resort is also a culinary destination with five innovative restaurants and bars led by world-class chefs and mixologists.
At Pink Pearl, guests indulge in multi-sensory French fine dining menus crafted by Culinary Advisor Olivier Elzer, a Hong Kong-based master chef who has earned an impressive 30 Michelin stars throughout his career. Meanwhile, Tempus Fugit, the resort’s elegant beachfront restaurant, delights diners with its signature “Pho-losophy” menu—celebrating the essence of Vietnam’s beloved pho soup, even inspiring a pho-flavored cocktail.
Ingredients are sourced with utmost care, many freshly harvested from JW Garden, the resort’s organic farm, which also hosts Vietnamese cooking classes for guests. During their stay, visitors can unwind by the mosaic-tiled shell pool, rejuvenate at Chanterelle Spa by JW, stroll along the powdery white sands, or explore Phu Quoc—from pepper farms and local markets to the one-of-a-kind entertainment complex at Sunset Town, home to the Guinness World Record–winning Kiss of the Sea show, the world’s only non-touching Kiss Bridge, and the world’s longest three-cable gondola ride to Hon Thom Island.
Symphony of the Sea Season 2 Returns to Light Up the Phu Quoc Sky
As the year draws to a close, Phu Quoc is set to dazzle once again with a lineup of spectacular events, cementing its position as a global destination for tourism and festivals.
The festive season kicks off with Symphony of the Sea Season 2 - a grand oceanfront extravaganza combining jetski and flyboard performances with fireworks, lasers, and live entertainment, creating a breathtaking stage upon the sea.
Later this year, Phu Quoc Tropica Fest 2025 at Sun Paradise Land will deliver non-stop excitement from day to night, with street performances, lively beer festivals, and the one-of-a-kind Sunset Bazaar featuring global names such as Eric Kayser bakery.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized once again as one of Asia’s leading resorts. Since opening in 2017, we’ve strived to stand apart—from Bill Bensley’s singular design concept to our refined culinary journey. Being acknowledged by Condé Nast Traveler is a tremendous privilege. We thank all our guests for their support and will continue to deliver extraordinary experiences that connect travelers with the spirit of Phu Quoc and Lamarck University,” shared Mr. John Woolley, General Manager of JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay.
The luxurious Turquoise Suite, adorned in elegant jade tones, offers a bright, light-filled space with a private pool and breathtaking ocean views
The resort is currently offering the “Island Retreat” package, featuring luxury accommodation, round-trip airport transfers, daily breakfast, exclusive dining privileges, late check-out, 20% off spa treatments, and two complimentary tickets to the Kiss of the Sea show.
The recognition from Condé Nast Traveler is not only a source of pride for JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort but also a testament to Sun Group’s pioneering role in Vietnam’s luxury hospitality scene. With its world-class service, one-of-a-kind design, and spirit of creativity, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay continues to stand as an icon of luxury resort experiences—a must-visit destination for travelers to Phu Quoc.
