JW Marriott Phu Quoc marks Lunar New Year with 'Blooming Season' program

Recently ranked No. 5 Best Resort in Asia by Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, the resort continues its practice of interpreting seasonal traditions through themed experiences. Set within architect Bill Bensley's Lamarck University concept, the Tet program focuses on renewal, balance, and the transition into the new year.

The shell-concept pool at JW Marriott Phu Quoc from above. Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Phu Quoc

A seasonal framework

The program is structured around the idea of "blooming," expressed through three elements. Nature blooming is reflected in the resort's outdoor spaces, including the JW Garden and the beachfront along Emerald Bay. Physical wellbeing blooming centers on spa treatments and light wellness activities designed to support rest and recovery. Mind blooming is explored through meditation, breathing exercises, and reflective rituals associated with new beginnings.

Lichun and the start of spring

On Feb. 4, the resort observes Lichun, traditionally regarded as the first day of spring. At JW Marriott Phu Quoc, the day is marked by wellness activities and a garden gathering rather than formal ceremony, emphasizing calm and seasonal transition.

Activities take place at the JW Garden, combining gentle movement, breath-focused practices, and a seasonal dining experience curated by Michelin Collector Chef Olivier Elzer. The menu highlights early spring ingredients and shared dining, aligning with the broader themes of renewal and balance.

Tet activities and accommodations

Throughout the Lunar New Year period, the resort hosts traditional Tet-related activities across its grounds. Lamarck House, a seven-bedroom private residence inspired by French architecture, is positioned as an option for guests seeking privacy. The villa includes expansive living areas, a private garden, and an ocean-facing infinity pool overlooking Emerald Bay.

Lamarck House by the Emerald Bay. Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Phu Quoc

The Lamarck House All-Inclusive Experience includes spa treatments, a private barbecue at the villa, flexible check-in and check-out, and airport transfers.

Dining venues also feature seasonal menus. At Tempus Fugit, a Tet set menu highlights Vietnamese flavors prepared with refined techniques. Place de Lamarck, the resort's central outdoor square, hosts an Oriental Night Market and a Flavors of the East buffet inspired by Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese cuisines, alongside dragon and lion dance performances.

Cultural activities such as calligraphy and handcrafted clay toy-making are available throughout the day, offering opportunities for guests of different ages to engage with traditional practices.

Guests enjoying breakfast by the beach. Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Phu Quoc

Beachfront dining and seasonal menus

At the beachfront restaurant Red Rum, the Tet season is marked by fire-grill evenings and Tides & Fire BBQs. The venue also introduces themed dining concepts, including Chimaek by the Sea, pairing Korean fried chicken with SunKraft Beer, and a Brazil Festival BBQ.

French & Co offers a Spring Festival Afternoon Tea featuring pastries and teas inspired by spring flavors. The café also presents a Tet Hamper developed in collaboration with Dilmah Tea and Annam Gourmet.

Valentine's Day programming

With Valentine's Day falling within the Tet period, the resort incorporates additional dining experiences. Red Rum offers a Romantic Beach Set Menu served along the shoreline. Pink Pearl by Olivier E. presents Pink Valentine with Taittinger, combining French cuisine, champagne, and live piano and vocal performances in its signature pink-themed setting.

Pink Pearl by Olivier E. is a pink mansion and French fine dining destination, overseen by the acclaimed consultant chef Olivier Elzer. Photo courtesy of JW Marriott Phu Quoc

The resort has also partnered with Aapis flower to introduce eight orchid installations across the property. Each installation reflects aspects of the blooming theme and highlights the relationship between natural elements and seasonal renewal.

Wellness offerings

At Chanterelle - Spa by JW, the Lunar New Year is framed as a time for restoration. Seasonal treatments include the Soft Beginning Ritual - Awakening of the Spirit, featuring a floral bath and Authentic Vibration Therapy, and the Blooming Renewal Ritual, which combines floral body care, mushroom herbal massage, and a mini rose facial. The Symphony Glow Facial by Anne Semonin is also available as part of the Tet program.