A short hop from Kuala Lumpur—less than two hours—takes you to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. Its location, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, has led it to quickly gain popularity with its opening to tourism. In the past decade, it has also attracted leisure seekers who gravitate towards its coral reefs, water sports, marine life and white sandy beaches.
Visitors arriving at its international airport will quickly encounter their time capsule moment, as they shuttle through this verdant wonderland of picturesque fishing villages lining the coastline, a recall of the early days of Bali perhaps, but undeniably enhanced by modern infrastructure and well-maintained roads around the island. In 2022, the ensuing tourism boom also led to Regent Phu Quoc opening its doors, debuting as the upper luxury brand of IHG Hotels & Resorts here in Southeast Asia.
Inside the hotel limo, a sleek Mercedes-Benz V250, I am welcomed by a curated and tranquil-inducing ‘in-vehicle playlist for the season’, a prelude to the stay. In less than 15 minutes, the Regent Phu Quoc appears, situated along pristine shores of Long Beach. Regent Phu Quoc is nestled amid 38ac of lush gardens, shimmering pools and meandering streams that are home to approximately 12,000 koi fishes.
With that amount of space, this beach resort is spread opulently, with 312 generously sized units of accommodation, ranging from sky-high ocean-facing suites to private pool villas. Many of these accommodation options include private pools for utmost seclusion. Meanwhile, the seven-bedroom villa, spread across 15,000 sq ft, comes with four panoramic infinity pools and two plunge pools—a next-level feature that ranks high as a conversation starter. Social butterflies will revel in five swimming pools (one of which is adults only), including two spectacular rooftop pools, both serviced by a top-tier bar.
Among these watering holes is FuBar, a sanctuary above the fray for cocktails and relaxation. I spend a languid afternoon by the infinity pool, mesmerised by the stunning vistas of the Gulf of Thailand. Andre, our knowledgeable bartender, introduces the intriguing world of Vietnamese gin with small batch offerings such as Song Cai (Big River) and Lady Trieu (Heroine), both crafted from 100 per cent Vietnamese botanicals such as jasmine, hibiscus, oolong tea and orange. His expertly mixed gimlet and martini are the ideal afternoon indulgence.
At The Regent Phu Quoc, personalised service reigns supreme. Whether lounging in the designer cabanas by the pool or on the sunbeds at the beach, I am consistently attended to by uniformed staff who appear with towels, sunblock and chilled water within moments. This dedicated team anticipates your every need, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience. Should you require anything after your attendant steps away, a conveniently placed QR code allows you to order refreshments or sun care products.
While relaxation is paramount at The Regent Phu Quoc, adventurous souls are not forgotten. Enter the vibrant world of Phu Quoc’s offshore coral reefs on a snorkelling or diving excursion, or explore the lush mangroves by kayak, which reveal more of Phu Quoc’s hidden gems. For an elevated experience, charter the Regent’s luxury catamaran, aptly named Serenity, and cruise along the coastline for its spectacular sunsets.
For those who prefer land-based activities, a leisurely cycle along the scenic coast of Long Beach is recommended. This easy cycling route offers 10km of uninterrupted ocean views and refreshing tropical breezes, a great way to work in an exercise and to take in the idyllic beachside vistas.
Once you’ve enjoyed your day of activities—because, as I learn, even lounging by the beach can be exhausting—it’s time to retreat to the spa. The Spa at The Regent Phu Quoc is an oasis of tranquillity, rivalling the best spas around the world. Its meticulously designed interiors, in soothing earth tones and natural materials, create an atmosphere of serenity from the moment you step inside.
The palatial treatment room I’m in, at least the size of a typical London flat, offers breathtaking views of the lush gardens. With the 60-minute Tam Quoc Reviver massage, skilled therapists expertly blend traditional Vietnamese techniques with modern spa practices, and further incorporat sound therapy to leave me in a state of utter bliss.
Here at The Regent Phu Quoc, the unhurried pace and easy living is aided by the plethora of F&B choices. Its atmospheric Rice Market serves up pleasing fare, including healthful Vietnamese staples, while the Oku signature dining takes you on a taste sensation with its Omakase Atelier and Salon du Boeuf for contemporary Japanese-French cuisine. There’s also the easy breezy Ocean Club for rum cocktails paired with a choice of gourmet sandwiches, Italian favourites, and fresh oysters.
And when the day grows long, Bar Jade offers a speakeasy ambience to wind down, with its live jazz bands adding a frisson of excitement to a place that takes you away and beyond what you think possible—a place that combines the romance of an intimate getaway with remarkable service levels and an impressive setting that continually takes your breath away.
Photos courtesy of Regent Phu Quoc / IHG Hotels & Resorts
