The Fantastical Theme – Lamarck University

The resort’s concept is that it was once the fictional “Lamarck University,” founded by a French naturalist. Each building is named after a different academic department – the “Department of Zoology,” the “Department of Marine Biology,” the “Department of Architecture” – and the interiors are filled with curiosities, vintage books, and antique scientific instruments. Bill Bensley scoured the world for authentic artifacts to decorate the property, and the result is a place that feels like a museum you can live in.

The rooms and suites continue the theme, with hand-painted murals, custom furniture, and balconies overlooking the bay. The most spectacular is the “Presidential Suite,” a two-story apartment with a private pool, a grand piano, and a collection of rare prints. Every room includes a butler service, and the attention to detail is extraordinary.

Culinary Excellence – From Tempus Fugit to Pink Pearl

The resort is home to several exceptional dining venues. “Tempus Fugit” (meaning “Time Flies”) is the all-day dining restaurant, serving international and Vietnamese cuisine in a space designed as a natural history museum. The “Pink Pearl” is a fine-dining restaurant housed in a beautiful pink colonial-style building, offering French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine. The signature dish, “Pearl of the Orient,” is a lobster and caviar creation served in a pearl-shaped shell.

“Red Rum” is the beachfront seafood grill, named after the famous racing horse (and the rum served there). The “Chemistry Bar” is a whimsical cocktail lounge where drinks are served in beakers and test tubes. The resort also offers private dining in the wine cellar, on the beach, or in the “Department of Zoology” meeting room.

The Chanel Spa – Ultimate Indulgence

The Chanel Spa at JW Marriott Phu Quoc is a sanctuary of elegance. Designed as a traditional Vietnamese village, the spa features treatment pavilions, a steam room, sauna, and relaxation areas. The signature treatment, “The Chanel Experience,” is a 3-hour ritual that includes a body scrub, a massage with Chanel oils, and a facial using Chanel skincare products. The spa also offers a “Lamarck University” wellness program, with yoga, meditation, and fitness classes.

Exploring Phu Quoc – Pearl Island Adventures

The resort is ideally located on Turtle Bay, one of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful beaches. The island is known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and pepper farms. The resort’s concierge can arrange excursions to the nearby An Thoi archipelago, snorkeling and diving trips, visits to the Phu Quoc National Park, and tours of the island’s famous fish sauce factories and pearl farms. Sunset cruises and fishing trips are also popular.

Awards & Accolades

JW Marriott Phu Quoc has been consistently recognized as one of the best resorts in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and The Telegraph. In 2025, it received the “Best Resort Design in Asia” award at the World Luxury Hotel Awards. The Pink Pearl restaurant was also awarded a Michelin star in 2026.