Located in the island’s charming Sunset Town, the Amalfi Coast‑inspired resort is set to evoke the imagination, embrace the romance of travel, and ignite a sense of wonder. La Festa Phu Quoc offers a Mediterranean cultural space with iconic architectural landmarks and year-round experiences. As part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, this resort offers more than luxury. It offers meaning. A design-led narrative blending Italian romance and Vietnamese soul, La Festa is a destination shaped as much by imagination as it is by intention.
At the heart of it all is General Manager Yong Min Kim, who brings warmth, vision, and deep cultural sensibility to his role. We spoke with him about the spirit of La Festa, what drew him to Phu Quoc, and how lifestyle hospitality is evolving in Vietnam.
What does the name “La Festa” mean, and how does it reflect the spirit of the resort?
“La Festa” means “The Festival” or “The Celebration” in Italian — and that’s exactly what we aim to offer: a joyful, inspiring space where guests can celebrate both big milestones and quiet moments. It’s not just a name; it’s a mindset.
Our story is inspired by a romantic narrative of an artist couple journeying along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. That spirit of timeless beauty, creativity, and emotion is woven into every detail of what we do. We are also proud to be part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, offering guests once-in-a-lifetime moments through thoughtfully curated experiences, local touches, and unexpected delights.
What was your first impression of Phu Quoc, and how did it shape the vision for La Festa?
Phu Quoc surprised me — in the best way. The crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches were expected, but what truly captured me was the island's perfect balance between natural wonder and emerging sophistication. Especially in the south, there’s an energy — like something special is quietly unfolding. I found myself drawn to how the island maintains its authentic charm while embracing thoughtful growth.
The warmth of the people, the richness of daily life — from night markets to traditional fish sauce villages — helped shape our approach. We didn’t want to overshadow that spirit but to build something that enhances it. La Festa became our answer: a place where Phu Quoc’s natural beauty and growing elegance come together in quiet harmony.
How does La Festa balance Mediterranean and Vietnamese influences in its design?
One of my favorite expressions of this fusion is in how we treat light, space, and material. From the sun-washed yellows and deep blues of the Amalfi Coast to the turquoise palette of Phu Quoc, our colors reflect both worlds.
But it’s the craftsmanship that truly tells the story. We blend local materials like bamboo and rattan with Mediterranean elements — arched colonnades, tiled courtyards and sunlit terraces.
We bring that vibrancy into every detail: a color palette of Mediterranean blues and bougainvillea pinks, a cliffside infinity pool tiled in Positano motifs, and even our curated soundscape — shifting throughout the day to mirror the rhythm of an Italian seaside escape.
Our architectural design also pays tribute to tradition with exquisite Vietnamese wooden screens and intricate lattice work, reminiscent of Mediterranean shutters and pergolas. These elements interplay to create dynamic patterns of light while allowing for gentle natural ventilation, connecting guests to their surroundings. At La Festa, nothing is simply imitated. Everything is thoughfully integrated — with intention, care and respect for both cultures.
What role did Hilton’s Curio Collection vision and Sun Group’s expertise play in shaping La Festa Phu Quoc’s unique character?
The Curio Collection gave us the framework to be authentic. Instead of following a one-size-fits-all brand formula, Hilton encouraged us to root La Festa in Phu Quoc’s own narrative — from its pearl-farming heritage to its rich seafood culture. Sun Group, with its deep understanding of the local landscape and proven expertise in transformative developments across Vietnam, helping bring that vision to life.
Together, we’ve created something that feels global in its polish yet unmistakably local in its soul. That spirit is reflected in the smallest touches — like the turquoise Yukata robes embroidered with delicate pearl shell motifs, or the reimagining of Phu Quoc’s iconic fish sauce in a modern dish at The Merchant. These details aren’t just decorative flourishes — they’re purposeful expressions of place and identity.
Meanwhile, Sun Group’s decades-long track record in Vietnam’s hospitality sector brought local development expertise with its motto "beautifying the lands," nuanced market insights, and a proven ability to deliver premium infrastructure as evidenced by their work on major projects throughout Vietnam.
How does La Festa Phu Quoc ensure its lifestyle offerings resonate with both international travelers and the local community?
At La Festa Phu Quoc, we take a thoughtful approach to lifestyle experiences that celebrate cultural fusion. For international guests, we offer familiar Mediterranean comforts layered with Vietnamese touches — from pasta with Phu Quoc red peppercorns to cocktails infused with local herbs.
Our collaboration with local artisans brings authentic craftsmanship into our spaces, while our retail areas showcase modern Vietnam through curated, locally made goods. We also invest in training local talent, blending international standards with the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.
These efforts go beyond aesthetics — they reflect our belief that cultural connection should feel natural, not imposed. It’s this spirit that gives La Festa its unique sense of place.
As the General Manager, how do you foster a service culture that aligns with La Festa Phu Quoc’s lifestyle-oriented vision?
Creating a service culture that reflects La Festa’s lifestyle vision takes more than training — it takes heart. We focus on personalized service, where every guest feels genuinely seen, welcomed, and cared for from the moment they arrive.
Our approach blends Mediterranean warmth with Vietnamese hospitality, encouraging our team to connect with guests in a way that’s both professional and deeply personal. Regular training sharpens attention to detail, but it’s our openness to feedback — from guests and staff alike — that allows us to evolve, adapt, and exceed expectations.
This ongoing dialogue ensures we stay true to La Festa’s spirit: intuitive, thoughtful service that enhances every moment of the guest journey.
What experiences should travelers not miss at La Festa Phu Quoc?
Start with the view — our cliffside infinity pool, inspired by Positano, offers a serene escape overlooking the sea like a living postcard. Then, our rooftop terrace invites sunset gatherings beneath Italian-style archways, beautifully crafted by local artisans.
Savor chef-led dining experiences where Mediterranean and Vietnamese flavors meet in refined harmony. And beyond the resort, visit the fish sauce villages or stroll the lively night markets.
Every moment is designed to evoke something real — reflection, connection, or simple joy.
Can guests expect new surprises in 2025 and beyond?
Absolutely. La Festa Phu Quoc is set to debut a new boutique wing featuring all-suite accommodations and four distinctive new F&B concepts. A fresh lineup of resident DJs, exclusive chef and artist events, and collaborations with lifestyle brands will also bring new energy to the experience.
But it’s not about chasing trends — it’s about deepening what makes us special. La Festa Phu Quoc will continue to evolve as a vibrant intersection of design, culture and hospitality.
Stay curious and join us in creating unforgettable moments!