Cassia Cottage

Owned by an American spice trader based in Phu Quoc since the 1990s, Cassia Cottage is one of the most charming hotels in the area. Its grounds are serene and lovely, with mature palm trees and winding stepping-stone paths running through manicured gardens. The property is divided into two distinct areas: the original structure, where the owners once lived, has a strong traditional feel, consisting of several low cottages designed like local homes, with pitched terra-cotta roofs, airy verandas, and brick and wood accents; the newer structures were designed in a slightly more modern style that incorporates traditional elements such as flying roofs, big windows with wooden frames, and thatch details on stairs. The big white balustrades and lush grounds lend the property a romantic plantation feel. 

The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, and there are plenty of outdoor areas where guests can relax during the day. The palm-fringed beach is sandy and beautiful, and there are three pools, allowing for guests to spread out. The vibe in the evening is a little bit more lively. The Spice House, with an excellent Mediterranean and regional menu and a stylish design, is a destination unto itself. Guests and non-guests fill the tables every night, and reservations can be hard to come by. Malabar, the hotel’s laid-back beach bar, is also a popular sunset spot. The combination of a relaxing, intimate atmosphere and upscale touches draws plenty of European couples, but the hotel is also popular with expat families escaping the crowds and pollution of Ho Chi Minh City during school vacation periods. 

Cassia Cottage is an great upscale pick for those in need of some R&R, but travelers wanting to really splurge may want to consider the Chen Sea Resort & Spa Phu Quoc, which has 36 gorgeous villas (some with private pools), a great spa, and excellent food. Location, though, is a tad remote. In this price range, Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island may be a better pick for those seeking something with more on-site amenities. Families may prefer the Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort, which is not as charming as the Cassia Cottage, but has kid-friendly amenities and is generally cheaper. 

The hotel is located on a small back street lined with hotels and a number of casual restaurants and cafes. Although it's a little away from the main tourist area, a few other dining, drinking, and shopping options can be found within easy walking distance, on the main road running along Phu Quoc’s western coast. There are no sidewalks in the area, though, and taking a taxi may be safer for longer distances, especially because motorbikes tend to ride on the shoulder. Duong Dong, the island’s main city, is an easy five-minute drive down the road. The town’s night market -- selling everything from pearls and souvenirs to fresh seafood -- is worth a visit. Stunning Sao Beach is a 35-minute drive away, and the airport is about 10 minutes from the hotel.

Cassia Cottage has a total of 58 rooms spread over several low buildings surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel is divided into two distinct areas: the Heritage Section, comprised of the original structures, and the Modern Section, which was built in 2015. Most of the rooms in the Heritage Section were renovated in mid-2017, and are decorated in a cute traditional style, with lots of wood, brick, and terra-cotta accents. Rooms in the Modern Section have a more contemporary style, with viridian-green tiles on floors, romantic four-poster beds with mosquito nets, and a soft neutral palette throughout. Furniture in these rooms has minimalist lines that combine iron and wood, creating stylish spaces with a somewhat upscale, beachy feel.

Each room features both air-conditioning and ceiling fans, as well as electric kettles, free tea, coffee, and water (all replenished daily), and safes. Minibars are stocked with beer, wine, water, and an array of snacks, including nuts, candy, and chips. All rooms have balconies or terraces with patio furniture and either garden or sea views. Garden Cottages offer direct access to the pool and have hammocks on the balcony, and Beach Houses feature two en-suite bedrooms, a living area, and a big terrace with loungers and a table with four chairs. In line with the hotel’s focus on relaxation and return to basics, TVs are not available anywhere in the hotel. However, Wi-Fi is provided throughout and is free for all guests. Turndown service is also standard.

Well-maintained bathrooms have rain showers, hairdryers, and an array of toiletries made with natural ingredients. Those in the Modern Section are particularly appealing, with gray floor tiles, white built-in vanities with conical sinks, and big walk-in showers. Most Premium Rooms have outdoor showers as well. 

Housed in a beautiful open pavilion with sea views, the Spice House is one of the most famous restaurants in this part of the island. It serves excellent Mediterranean and regional cuisine for lunch and dinner, and reservations are coveted, especially for the two dinner sittings. Our fish amok was full of exotic flavors and perfectly cooked, and the atmosphere was laid-back but upscale. Breakfast is included in all room rates, and the excellent buffet spread changes daily. 

Malabar, the hotel's beach bar, is busiest in the late afternoon, when guests and non-guests alike gather for sunset drinks. It features an extensive cocktails and beer menu, as well as popular barbecue nights. There are a pool table and a selection of board games, and music is played at a reasonable volume throughout the day.

The stretch of beach adjacent to Cassia Cottage is sandy and pleasant, with plenty of padded loungers, and palm trees and umbrellas for shade. The water can be rough between May and September, but it is generally suitable for swimming the rest of the year. The hotel’s three pools are a great alternative when the tide is high or the sea is choppy. The largest one is located by the Modern Section, and has an infinity edge and a number of loungers. Tucked away in the gardens, the adult-only pool has a more intimate vibe and also offers sea views, while the smaller kiddy pool is located on a separate deck. Drink and food service are available at all three pools, as well as at the beach. 

Set in the garden adjacent to the beach, the spa is serene and charming. It has two spacious wooden pavilions with two massage beds each separated by curtains, and a great treatments menu that includes Thai, Swedish, and foot massages, facials, and aromatherapy among many other options. Yoga and meditation classes can be booked for a fee, but the hotel lacks a full fitness center. Also missing are a whirlpool, sauna, and steam room.