As the “Year of the Snake” slides ever closer, Bill Bensley’s unique collection of luxurious villas will transport explorers on a zoological journey.
The award-winning JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa offers an enviable location on eco-tourism Khem Beach. A 5-star luxury beach resort, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, a reimagined mythical French university nestled between tropical jungles, turquoise seas, and bright skies on Vietnam’s precious “Pearl Island”, every guest can immerse themselves in the world of their spirit animal. Lamarck University, which is said to have thrived between 1880 and 1940, advanced the study of native species and the endemic wildlife of Indochina. Within this center of learning, a collection of highly original and exclusive villas, brilliantly brought to life by Bill Bensley, are inspired by the colors of nature and the animal kingdom, empowering every visitor to discover a deep connection with nature.
As Vietnam slides seamlessly into the “Year of the Snake”, families and friends can come together and celebrate Lunar New Year, or Tet, amid the sky-blue hues of the Department of Herpetologie. This exquisite three-bedroom villa depicts the many wonderful reptiles called Phu Quoc home, including several species of snakes. With three beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its en-suite bathroom, a generous living area ideal for entertaining, multiple outdoor spaces, and panoramic views, these evocative villas seamlessly blend sophisticated design with complete comfort.
Alternatively, the Department of Mammalogie is an exquisite one-bedroom villa, perfect for couples who want to unwind in luxury and elegance. With 180 square meters of light-filled, turquoise-hued living space, curious explorers can cool off in private pools and feel inspired by the lush tropical hills that surround the resort. The sense of discovery is elevated by the monochrome images that line the walls, depicting the diverse mammalian species that once roamed the surrounding forests – and in some cases, such as macaques, otters, and fruit bats, can still be found in Phu Quoc today.
Gazing out towards the resort’s lush, natural gardens, the Department of Oceanographie is a dazzling jade villa that was formerly committed to the study of aquatic creatures. From ancient ammonites and fossilized shells that trace Phu Quoc’s ancient history to the present-day creatures that reside offshore, such as crabs, lobsters, and sea snails, these vibrant one-bedroom villas bathe guests in the wonders of the ocean.
The underwater world also comes to life in the three-bedroom villas, which are inspired by the university’s former Department of Ichtyologie, dedicated to the biological science and research of fish. These breathtaking 400-square-meter residences are blessed with aquatic Tiffany blue interiors that seem to flow with waves of grace and beauty. Up to six loved ones can experience unparalleled tranquility with private outdoor terraces and plunge pools.
Within each of these stunning sanctuaries, guests can learn about the animals displayed within Bill Bensley’s interior design through pen & ink sketches, descriptive images, artistic installations, and even a series of QR codes that can be scanned to reveal further information about each zoological subject.
For the ultimate escape, the spectacular seven-bedroom Lamarck House is Phu Quoc’s most sought-after residence. A magnificent white mansion spanning 1,300 square meters of indoor and outdoor space, this palatial villa features art-inspired interiors designed by Bill Bensley, a mesmerizing 50-meter-long infinity pool, and breathtaking views of the sunrise over Emerald Bay. With its pink hues reflecting the original university dean’s wife’s love of the color pink, this mansion sets the stage for life’s most special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and New Year festivities with up to 16 guests.
For more information and reservations, please visit marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pqcjw-jw-marriott-phu-quoc-emerald-bay-resort-and-spa
