JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa is the landmark five-star resort on Kem Beach (Bai Khem) in the south of the island. Architect Bill Bensley designed it around the story of a fictional old French university, Lamarck University, so former "lecture halls" become rooms and "faculty buildings" become restaurants and public spaces. The shell-shaped pool and the fine white sand of Kem Beach make the whole resort a sight in itself.

Kem Beach is one of Phu Quoc's quietest and clearest beaches, so the resort suits couples on honeymoons and anniversaries, design lovers and anyone after a luxury spa-and-dining stay. It is a fair drive from the airport and Duong Dong, so plan your transfers.

Rooms follow the university theme, with vintage furniture and academic details everywhere. Categories run from rooms to suites and villas; the higher grades add space, terraces or private pools. Choose an ocean-facing category to be close to the sea.

The mosaic-tiled shell pool is the signature photo spot, with Kem Beach right beyond it. Restaurants and bars are themed as university departments, and Chanterelle – Spa by JW plays on a whimsical mushroom theme. Booking ahead is recommended for the spa and some restaurants. See also Pink Pearl, the resort's French fine-dining restaurant.

The south is close to the Hon Thom cable car and Sunset Town, but Duong Dong and the Long Beach restaurants require a car. The resort works best for a stay focused on the resort itself and the south of the island.