Mango Bay, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam - Explore & Book

"Mango Bay, on the mid-western coast of Phu Quoc, is only a short drive from the island’s main town, but it feels like it’s miles away. You arrive at a place that is half jungle forest, half Swiss Family Robinson, and wholly relaxed. Surrounded by nature in all its glory, it’s quite likely you’ll see a cow drift past your window and certain that a chorus of birdsong and cicadas will serenade part of your day. Originally built as a private weekend retreat by 3 expats living in Ho Chi Minh, Mango Bay is now a hamlet of thatched huts spread across a wild garden that leads down a gentle slope to the sea. Its success lies in it complementing rather than competing with its surroundings, and in not trying too hard to ‘do the hotel thing’ - staff are friendly and informal. This is an ideal refuge from the energy of Ho Chi Minh, its simple charms and excellent rates attracting friends, families and couples alike. It's not for everyone as it’s long on nature and short on snazzy gizmos, but for us, this was its appeal. Highs Standing in the open-air shower, looking at your own little patch of jungle - there’s a real sense that you’re living with naturePlaying chess over cocktails, while watching the sun glide below the horizon (this is one of the only places in Vietnam where you can see the sun set, as it’s west facing)The sea is the ultimate temperature - you can while away hours just bobbing around in the shallows, or snorkelling and kayakingPhu Quoc has an extremely chilled beach vibe, which we found a welcome release after quite frenetic travelling on the mainland. The jungle-hut feel of Mango Bay magnifies this, and there's a wellness room for massages We really enjoyed the food - it’s Vietnamese, largely home-grown and absolutely delicious Lows Limited mod-cons: no air-con, TVs, room service or swimming poolThough you’re in the jungle, your neighbours are right next to you. The Plantation Bungalows felt the most private and spaced outThe extra beds are reputedly not very comfortable so groups may want to book more rooms insteadSome won't like the fact that bugs can enter your room through the wall frieze, though the beds are netted" - Christianne Davies