Looking back on my latest journey through Phu Quoc’s evolving tourism scene and how staying at JW Marriott Phu Quoc enriched my experience
By balancing all-inclusive luxury with authentic local culture and sustainable practices, Phu Quoc has crafted an inviting, future-forward tourism scene. As a traveller who’s seen its transformation firsthand, I can vouch that the island now offers more depth, comfort, and meaning than ever before. Whether you gravitate towards pampering experiences or remain a seasoned explorer, Phu Quoc’s new approach ensures you can have it all—with a side of environmental respect and cultural resonance.
I had visited Phu Quoc a few times before, drawn to its mix of natural beauty, cultural energy, and easygoing charm. However, when I returned in December 2024, I discovered that the island—often called Pearl Island—was stepping confidently into a new era of upscale tourism. Two key developments really stood out: the planned introduction of the “all-inclusive” luxury concept by top-tier brands like Rixos, and the impressive sustainability efforts of JW Marriott Phu Quoc, where I actually stayed.
A New Era of ‘All-Inclusive’ Luxury in Southeast Asia
The big news making waves in Phu Quoc’s tourism community was that the prestigious Rixos brand has chosen this Vietnamese island to debut its high-end all-inclusive resort concept in Southeast Asia. While I didn’t stay at a Rixos property itself (it has just been announced), I met travellers who were excited about the idea of bundling accommodation, dining, and activities into one worry-free package. They spoke about not having to think twice before booking a sunset boat tour or splurging on a gourmet meal, all included in their single price.
This shift toward worry-free travel felt like a breath of fresh air. I recalled how my earlier visits involved piecing together each element of my trip—accommodation, tours, meals—separately. The all-inclusive approach promised more time enjoying the island rather than wrestling with logistics. This was especially appealing to visitors hoping to explore everything from Hon Thom’s cable car rides to vibrant shows at Sun Paradise Land, and perhaps even stay longer to savour the island’s diverse experiences.
Why I Chose JW Marriott Phu Quoc This Time
While the Rixos debut makes headlines, I personally opted to stay at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa this time around. I’d heard that this resort was not only luxurious but also deeply committed to sustainable practices—a combination that perfectly aligned with what I seek in a holiday.
Upon arrival, I sensed a careful balance: the JW Marriott property offered an elegant atmosphere with top-notch amenities, yet remained authentic to the island’s culture and environment. This blend of comfort, quality, and responsibility felt rare and refreshing. In the past, high-end resorts sometimes focused primarily on pampering guests without considering their environmental footprint. Here, however, the JW Marriott resort was doing both.
Sustainable Practices That Impressed Me
A highlight of my stay at JW Marriott Phu Quoc was discovering the JW Garden, a green space carefully curated to connect guests like me with nature. On previous trips to Phu Quoc, I’d always enjoyed local fresh produce, but this was the first time I saw a resort fostering biodiversity and growing insect-friendly herbs right on-site. Knowing that some of the delicious flavours on my plate originated from this garden added a meaningful layer to my dining experience.
The resort’s dedication to reducing waste also caught my eye. Their Pure Water Filtration System replaced plastic bottles with glass alternatives, significantly cutting down on single-use plastics. I remember feeling good about sipping clean, safe drinking water with the knowledge that it supported a more sustainable future for the island. Such small details resonated deeply; I’ve visited places where plastic waste felt like an unfortunate backdrop to a beautiful setting, but JW Marriott took real steps to minimise that issue.
Another eco-friendly initiative I appreciated was the resort’s Sewage Treatment Plant System, where advanced technologies ensured wastewater was treated efficiently and reintroduced safely into the environment. Having read stories about hotel waste being piped into the sea, knowing that wastewater is being treated onsite is a breath of fresh air (literally!). Phu Quoc’s pristine coastline and marine ecosystems deserve protection, and actions like these help maintain the island’s natural charm for future visitors and local communities.
Exploring Beyond the Resort: Phu Quoc’s Evolving Ecosystem
Staying at JW Marriott allowed me to fully enjoy the resort’s amenities and sustainability efforts, but it also inspired me to venture out. After all, Phu Quoc now hosted an expanded tourism ecosystem that included major attractions like Sunset Town, Kiss Bridge, and the spectacular Hon Thom cable car—one of the longest three-rope cable cars in the world.
Interestingly, the brand-new all-inclusive model by Rixos signals that even more high-end names might soon arrive, each possibly bringing their own unique experiences. And with the island’s commitment to sustainability, I’m hoping that Phu Quoc becomes a leader for eco-tourism in Vietnam. Discussing this with fellow guests, we speculated that these developments could open the door for new sustainable concepts that will spread throughout the region, as it strives to be even more internationally recognised.
The synergy between large-scale sustainable efforts (as seen at JW Marriott) and premium, no-hassle holiday packages suggested a future where Phu Quoc welcomes not just tourists but travellers who appreciate quality, convenience, and responsible tourism. I noticed families enjoying Aquatopia Water Park, couples dining in world-class restaurants, and groups watching art performances, all woven together into a seamless experience.
Personal Tips for Travellers
Based on what I observed, here are a few suggestions if you’re considering Phu Quoc:
- Choose Accommodations That Match Your Values: If, like me, you appreciate eco-minded hospitality, consider staying at a resort like JW Marriott Phu Quoc. You’ll enjoy comfort and luxury without feeling you’ve turned a blind eye to environmental stewardship.
- Embrace the All-Inclusive Trend: If you love having everything sorted for you—meals, entertainment, and activities included—look into the upcoming all-inclusive options. It might simplify your trip and let you focus on fun rather than planning.
- Combine Both Approaches: Even if you don’t opt for an all-inclusive package, use the convenience it brings to the island to your advantage. With more travellers staying longer and new routes opening, you’ll find a richer tapestry of cultural performances, gourmet dining, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- Stay Longer and Go Deeper: The evolving tourism scene encourages extended stays. Instead of rushing through the world’s largest 3-rope cable car or catching a show at Sun Paradise Land in a single whirlwind day, consider pacing yourself. Enjoy the beach this morning, the spa tomorrow, and a cultural performance the next. You have time.
Looking Back and Looking Ahead
On this trip, I saw Phu Quoc positioning itself as a destination that can cater to different types of travellers—families wanting an easy holiday, couples craving romance and relaxation, explorers diving into local culture, and eco-conscious guests like myself who appreciate sustainable practices. The JW Marriott experience perfectly complemented the island’s new hospitality vision: offering not just luxury but meaning.
Reflecting on my past visits, I marvelled at how Phu Quoc transformed from a place of basic comforts into an ultra-luxury hotspot ready to host the world’s best brands. As we look ahead, it’s clear that Phu Quoc is on the cusp of becoming a premier destination where natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and modern conveniences coexist harmoniously.
For travellers heading here next, expect a refined, enriched experience. You’ll find not only global hospitality standards but also thoughtful environmental measures and a hassle-free approach to exploring the island’s ever-growing list of attractions. It’s an exciting time to rediscover Phu Quoc—or fall in love with it for the first time.
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