Refined luxury between the sea and the island

Regent Phu Quoc is a retreat featuring suites and villas that transforms the raw beauty of this Vietnamese island into serene luxury.

Early in the morning, the air is crisp over Bai Truong, a long strip of white sand on the west coast of the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc in the Gulf of Thailand. At Regent, the day begins in a relaxed atmosphere: a private pool surrounded by greenery or a balcony overlooking nothing but the sky, the sea, and the first fishing boats of the day, complemented by spacious oasis-style bathrooms where water, stone, and light set the pace. The resort is consistently designed as an all-suites-and-villas property—with the sea always serving as a gentle constant in the background. As the morning progresses, the view expands across the island, which is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and whose 99 hills and pristine coastal stretches still tangibly shape the lives of the island’s inhabitants.

While excursions to pepper fields or boats in the harbor beckon, the resort itself remains a carefully composed counterpart: Beach Pool Villas with direct access to the sandy beach, Sky Pool Villas high above with unobstructed views of the horizon, and Terrace and Lagoon Pool Villas nestled among gardens and lagoons. Everywhere, the same signature style of clean lines, natural textures, and panoramic views that frame rather than overwhelm—enhanced by small, effortless touches such as the Refreshment Gallery, restocked daily, or the laundry that disappears and reappears without a word.

By afternoon, the focus turns to the water: five infinity pools—including a family pool and an adults-only rooftop pool—beacon guests to unwind, while the Health Club, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, remains open throughout the day. Beyond the visible spectacle lies the true haven of tranquility: The Spa at Regent Phu Quoc, whose architecture evokes the zigzagging bridges of traditional Asian gardens and whose philosophy is based on the union of touch, frequency, and energy. Here, the therapist’s hands combine with Gharieni’s techniques, the precision of Biologique Recherche, the expertise of Bastien Gonzalez, and the oils of Laurent Séverac to create rituals that guide rather than perform. Those who wish may follow the Holistic Wellness Coach in breathing exercises, singing-bowl yoga, or quiet stretching above the rooftops, while outside the island continues to follow its simple rhythm of fishing, pearl harvesting, and pepper cultivation.

When the sun finally dips below the horizon where the sea meets the islands, the focus shifts to culinary delights: At Oku, a Japanese-French style meets the intimate ritual of omakase; Salon de Boeuf becomes a stage for meat treated with respect. Bar Jade, a hidden treasure chest within the resort, tells the story of spirits through precisely crafted cocktails, while Fu Bar, a rooftop terrace reserved exclusively for adults, offers gin in your glass, the wind on your face, and the sunset directly across the way. On the beach itself, Ocean Club and Aqua carry the sounds of the waves into a kitchen that incorporates Mediterranean and grilled flavors, while Rice Market brings together the aromas of Vietnam and Asia. Occasionally, the evening drifts entirely out to sea as Serenity, the resort’s own luxury catamaran, glides along the coast into twilight—the culmination of a day that is, above all, one thing: a carefully orchestrated invitation to slow down. The fact that the Michelin Guide has now awarded the resort a Michelin Key serves as confirmation of its thoughtful approach: Here, luxury is anchored in small gestures and a thoughtfully curated daily rhythm. Regent Phu Quoc is thus less a place one simply “travels” to, and more a space of resonance between the rugged yet delicate island and an architecture that invites stillness. phuquoc.regenthotels.com