Cindy Fan

MANGO BAY RESORT,
 PHU QUOC ISLAND, VIETNAM

This eco-conscious hideaway offers a rare experience not found elsewhere on Vietnam’s largest island. Guests can reset to the rhythm of nature and figuratively tread lightly on a 10ha swath where tropical jungle rolls into the Gulf of Thailand. Since Mango Bay opened in 2001, Phu Quoc has transformed from unknown backwater to hot ticket tourist destination. The island is booming with mega-resorts, but Mango Bay remains unpretentious, uncrowded and committed to sustainability. A total of 44 rustic, breezy bungalows built of wood and rammed earth harmoniously blend in with the landscape. Except for villas, guestrooms are cooled only by ceiling fans and feature green initiatives such as low-flush toilets and solar-heated outdoor showers. Linens are washed with water purified through an innovative plant-based system. There’s no TV or concrete pool. For this resort, luxury is the invitation to unplug, retreat to a hammock or explore the ocean reef that management is helping to regenerate. Perched on a rocky promontory, the restaurant’s wide sun-bleached wooden deck overlooks the sea. Guests gather here to take in a dazzling sunset followed by dinner under the stars. Naturally, freshly caught seafood is on the menu.
■ mangobayphuquoc.com
CINDY FAN

Hot Properties: Our favourite small hotels across Asia was published in The Weekend Australian 16-17 February, 2019 (digital access for subscribers only).