With direct access to a private beach, a tranquil spa, and neo-classical themed rooms, Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc has all you need for a perfect island getaway in Vietnam.
Vietnam has never been on my travel bucket list, and I don’t know why. Perhaps it’s because I’ve travelled to Vietnam as a student for a school trip but never as a holiday destination. Of course, I’m missing out. With a wealth of culture and history, Vietnam has so much to offer.
You may be familiar with cities like Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and even Da Nang, but Phu Quoc should be a new spot on your radar. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the southwest coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise filled with pristine beaches for the ultimate island getaway.
I experienced what the island has to offer during my stay at Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc. The sprawling five-star integrated resort boasts 1,378 rooms, a casino, a convention centre and theatre, seven restaurants and bars, direct access to Bai Dai beach, a spa, a massive pool, a kids’ club, and a fitness space.
Honestly, there’s no need to leave the premises, but its strategic location is close to nearby attractions like the VinWonders Phu Quoc, a kitschy amusement park, VinePearl Safari, a wildlife park, and VinPearl Golf course. And that’s just scratching the surface of what Phu Quoc has to offer.
First thoughts: Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc
As I reached the resort, I was welcomed by the grandiose lobby that lived up to its name. The check-in process was swift – they also have a facial recognition function that’s used to enter the restaurants and facilities around the resort. No need to remember your room number during breakfast; just scan your face at the entrance and step right in. There are two lift lobbies, one by the lobby and another on the side of a small stretch of souvenir shops. I had to get my hands on Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce and pepper.
I couldn’t help but notice the contemporary architecture mixed with a fun nautical theme. My room, however, had neo-classical influences and an understated elegance that made me feel like a princess. The rooms vary from Superior, Deluxe Garden, and Deluxe Ocean View to the opulent Deluxe Suite Ocean View. All of them boast floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony for scenic garden or ocean views, a plush king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom with marble-clad fixtures, and even a vanity corner to get ready for the day.
You won’t be hungry here
I started my morning with a buffet breakfast at the Nautilus Restaurant. Judging from the number of rooms – remember, there are over 1,000 – I was weary that breakfast would be crowded. Luckily, there are two spacious areas so no hassling for eggs. The large spread included European classics and Vietnamese specialities, live noodle and pasta stations, and free-flow Vietnamese coffee.
The resort also offers Italian cuisine at Atlantis Restaurant (I didn’t get to try the food but the space takes you back to a lavish ristorante in Italy), a Chinese restaurant that’s opening soon, and Brew Bar for refreshing cocktails and a game of pool or ping pong.
Pool-side chilling, beach vibing and spa treats
Satiated and happy, I explored the premises and somehow found myself at the pool, where I chilled in an oasis of calm. If the beach is more your vibe, call for a buggy and they’ll send you right to the private beach where there’s a beach bar and kayaking, banana boat, and jet-ski activities.
Fitness junkies, you can close your rings here. Check out the tennis court and wellness area with a well-equipped gym overlooking a lush green garden and a tranquil space for yoga sessions. Don’t skip the Naia Spa. Even though it wasn’t on our itinerary during the media stay, I gave in to temptation and tried the 30-minute express treatment. Spirits were lifted. I wish I had more time to try other treatments, as well as the hot and cold jacuzzi and sauna facilities.
All these perks might not entice you to leave the resort. But with proximity to fun attractions, I suggest factoring in more time for that, especially if you’re bringing the kids. Within just 1 to 3km away, there’s VinWonders Phu Quoc, a theme park with an aquarium (you won’t miss the giant turtle sculpture at the entrance), a water park, and thrilling roller-coasters. Plus, make a pitstop at VinPearl Safari, Vietnam’s largest semi-wildlife park with a cool safari drive-through on a bus.
A resort tailored to your preferences
With world-class facilities and luxurious rooms, Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for travellers seeking a tropical escape. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring nearby attractions, it promises an unforgettable vacation experience.
Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc, Bai Dai Area, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam; the hotel is a 50-minute drive from the airport with round-trip airport shuttle bus services available