What is your spirit animal? What animal resonates with you the most? As the “Year of the Snake” in 2025 approaches, one may feel a stronger connection to the qualities of a reptile: intelligence, eloquence, creativity, and compassion. A person’s spirit animal could also be something else entirely. Either way, find out what your spirit animal is at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa located in Vietnam.
The resort is a reimagined mythical French university – named Lamarck University – tucked within tropical jungles, turquoise seas, and bright skies on Vietnam’s “Pearl Island”. The university was said to have had its golden years between 1880 and 1940. It specialises in the study of native species and the endemic wildlife of Indochina. Within this stunning mythical university-turned-resort are exclusive villas designed by Bill Bensley. Inspired by nature and the animal kingdom, these villas allow guests to connect with the natural world and immerse themselves in the world of their spirit animal. Sticking true to the theme of university, the villas are interestingly named after departments.
Department of Herpetologie
This three-bedroom villa is decorated with an array of wonderful local reptiles and snakes. Each bedroom is equipped with its own en-suite bathroom; and the villa boasts a spacious living area, outdoor spaces, and gorgeous panoramic views. Perfect for families and friends, the villa invites guests to celebrate Lunar New Year, or Tet as they call it in Vietnam, in optimal comfort and sophistication. As the “Year of the Snake” beckons, guests can connect with the motifs of snakes and reptiles, in search of their spirit animal.
Department of Mammalogie
As its name suggests, this villa is lined with monochrome images on the walls that depict various mammals. These mammals were those that once roamed the local forests, but there are also those that still exist today – including macaques, otters, and fruit bats. Who knows, one of these mammals might just be your spirit animal.
This amazing one-bedroom villa is the ideal choice for couples. The villa is sized at 180 square metres, featuring private pools and vibrant tropical hills surrounding the area boasting equally vibrant views.
Department of Oceanographie
This radiant jade villa depicts the beauty of the ocean, previously dedicated to the study of ocean life. From ancient ammonited and fossilised shells, to present crabs, lobsters, and sea snails – this one-bedroom villa is filled with depictions of wondrous oceanic creatures. The villa also serves as a serene escape, perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing time while also connecting with aquatic creatures. These aquatic creatures may be the spirit animal you were looking for.
Department of Ichtyologie
Committed to the study of fish, this department inspired a grand three-bedroom villa that paints the beauty of the underwater world. Boasting 400 square metres of living space, the interior is decorated with a gorgeous Tiffany blue. The villa can accommodate 6 people, featuring private outdoor terraces and plunge pools for the ultimate experience.
Each villa features captivating artwork and installations, including pen-and-ink sketches and QR codes, that offer insights into the animal kingdom. Guests can learn more about the various species that inspired the villa’s design while also discovering which spirit animal resonates with them the most.
Lamarck House
The grandest residence is the Lamarck House, featuring seven bedrooms and spanning 1300 square metres. This house is the epitome of luxury. It includes stunning art-inspired interiors, a 50-metre infinity pool, along with stunning sunrise views of the Emerald Bay. Ideal for large gatherings, the villa’s pink-hued interiors create a romantic and elegant atmosphere, perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Rates at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa start from US$ 1,104. For more information, click here.
