The pearl of Vietnam

This island in the Gulf of Thailand, just off the coast of Cambodia, is known as the "rich land" (the meaning of its name) and the "enchanted tropical garden", where dense jungle meets crystal-clear waters. It is the only place in Vietnam where the sun appears to set directly into the sea, drawing visitors to witness its breathtaking sunsets. People also come here for the silence and seclusion. Half of Phu Quoc is covered by a national park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where nature remains in its pristine state. Lush jungles, lagoons, waterfalls, and, of course, an incredibly rich underwater world await. The island is surrounded by picturesque coral reefs teeming with colourful tropical fish, starfish, and other marine life.

Here, on a powdery white sand coastline, lies the Regent Phu Quoc resort, featuring 298 villas and suites designed in an elegant, minimalist style. Panoramic windows erase the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, and private pools seem to merge with the horizon. The tranquil lobby offers views of lagoons and gardens, fostering an atmosphere of peace. At sunset, the sky blazes with pink and orange hues, deepening to purple as candles flicker on the water.

A personal butler serves as a guide, unveiling facets of this part of Vietnam you never knew existed.

Naturally, the main activities here revolve around the sea. You could easily spend entire days in the gentle waters, snorkelling or diving in this underwater paradise, or visiting a pearl farm.

The resort has its own yacht – a comfortable catamaran named Serenity. Each morning, it cruises along the coast, visiting secluded bays with untouched wilderness. Fishing is available on board. A second cruise takes place in the afternoon, culminating in a spectacular sunset welcome with a glass of champagne and signature canapés prepared by the chefs of Regent Phu Quoc. With 24-hour advance notice, the vessel can be chartered for a full day or a private night cruise.

On land, there is plenty to do beyond lounging by the pool. You can explore the national park and biosphere reserve on a "peaceful safari", capturing unforgettable moments of the island's subtropical splendour.

Regent Phu Quoc also offers an immersion into the world of art. The conceptual space, The Gallery, regularly hosts exhibitions by talented Vietnamese artists who reinterpret traditional folk art in a contemporary context.

Each year, the hotel hosts the Taste Studio, a gastronomic event where culinary arts and creative expression merge. These immersive dinners become a symphony of flavour, light, and sound, transforming a meal into a performance where each guest participates in a creative process inspired by nature itself.

A gastronomic journey can be undertaken without ever leaving Regent Phu Quoc: Rice Market restaurant serves Asian rice and noodle dishes; Ocean Club evokes the atmosphere of the Mediterranean with music, exquisite cuisine, and a wide selection of drinks; and the fine-dining restaurant Oku offers a modern interpretation of French and Japanese culinary traditions.

A special point of pride is the Aqua Bar and Lounge, an architectural marvel created by renowned Vietnamese artist and designer Trong Nghia. This bamboo structure, shaped like a seashell, harmoniously blends into the coastal landscape and is celebrated for its signature cocktails.