INTERVIEW
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DAVID IPPERSIEL
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At the helm of the newly opened JW Marriott Cam Ranh Bay Resort & Spa, General Manager David Ippersiel leads with vision, purpose, and heart. With over two decades of experience across three continents, he brings a wealth of global expertise and a passion for crafting meaningful, culturally rooted hospitality experiences.
In this exclusive interview with MetroStaycation, David Ippersiel shares his insights on Cam Ranh’s rise as Vietnam’s next premier coastal destination, the resort’s poetic “forest meets the sea” design philosophy, and how JW Marriott Cam Ranh is shaping a new standard of mindful luxury rooted in balance, authenticity, and nature.
The Destination
What do you think makes Cam Ranh distinct from other beach destinations in Vietnam such as Nha Trang or Da Nang?
Cam Ranh stands apart for its raw, untouched beauty and sense of calm. Unlike Nha Trang, which has evolved into a bustling urban beach destination, or Da Nang, which blends city and leisure, Cam Ranh offers a more serene and exclusive coastal experience. Its long stretch of pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and dramatic dunes provide a feeling of escape that is becoming increasingly rare in Southeast Asia. What makes it even more appealing is that it is still developing in a mindful way, allowing luxury resorts like ours to define the standard of hospitality in the area without overcrowding or overdevelopment.
With the growing number of international flights arriving at Cam Ranh International Airport, how do you see tourism evolving in this region over the next few years?
The expansion of direct international routes, particularly from Korea, China, and other Asian hubs, is positioning Cam Ranh as one of Vietnam’s most dynamic emerging resort destinations. We expect to see a diversification of the traveler mix, from leisure and family vacations to wellness retreats and MICE events. Over the next few years, the region will likely evolve from a hidden gem into a recognized luxury beach destination comparable to established names such as Phuket or Bali, but with a distinctly Vietnamese authenticity.
How does JW Marriott Cam Ranh aim to contribute to the sustainable and mindful development of Cam Ranh as a travel destination?
Sustainability and mindfulness are at the heart of our philosophy. We aim to set an example for responsible growth in Cam Ranh by focusing on community engagement, energy efficiency, and local sourcing. From solar energy projects and water conservation initiatives to supporting local artisans and farmers through our JW Garden and partnerships, we ensure that our presence benefits the community as much as our guests. Beyond environmental sustainability, we also promote mindful travel, encouraging guests to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the serenity that defines Cam Ranh.
The Resort
JW Marriott Cam Ranh has a poetic tagline — “Where the Forest meets the Sea, Stillness Connects with You.” Could you share the story or philosophy behind this concept?
Our tagline captures the soul of the resort and the natural duality of its location. The forest represents grounding, connection, and rejuvenation, while the sea symbolizes freedom, flow, and infinite horizons. The meeting point between the two mirrors the JW Marriott philosophy of balance and mindfulness, a place where guests can rediscover stillness and connect deeply with themselves and their surroundings.
What inspired the resort’s “Forest meets the Sea” design narrative and how does it reflect the spirit of Cam Ranh?
The inspiration comes directly from the landscape itself, from Cam Ranh’s sand dunes, pine forests, and sweeping coastal views. Architecturally, the design draws from the textures, colors, and organic forms of nature. The use of natural materials, fluid lines, and open spaces mirrors the interplay of forest and sea, grounding guests in a space that feels both majestic and deeply tranquil. It is a poetic reflection of Cam Ranh’s untouched environment and the harmony we strive to maintain with it.
The resort has already earned multiple awards for its design and architecture. What do you believe sets its design apart in Vietnam’s luxury hospitality scene?
What truly distinguishes our design is its restraint and respect for nature. While many resorts focus on grand statements, JW Marriott Cam Ranh emphasizes quiet luxury, elegance through simplicity, and comfort through thoughtful details. The architectural flow allows every room and villa to embrace either the ocean or the forest views, while interior design elements inspired by Champa motifs and local artistry create a genuine sense of place. It is luxury that feels authentic rather than manufactured.
The Stay
With 203 rooms and villas, each promising sea views and tranquility, what is the defining experience guests can expect when staying here?
Every stay at JW Marriott Cam Ranh is designed to offer space, both physical and emotional. Some rooms and villas are open to breathtaking ocean views, while others overlook our peaceful forest landscape. Guests can expect understated luxury, privacy, and comfort where every detail, from texture to scent, enhances a sense of peace and renewal.
How do the villas, particularly the oceanfront ones, reflect the resort’s philosophy of “stillness and connection”?
Our oceanfront villas are the sanctuaries of calm. Their design embraces openness through flowing indoor and outdoor spaces, private pools, and panoramic views that invite guests to pause and reconnect. Whether it is a morning yoga session on the terrace or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon, these villas embody the art of being present
The interiors draw on Champa heritage and elemental harmony — can you elaborate on how this cultural touchpoint is woven into the guest experience?
The Champa influence appears in the intricate details, from architectural patterns and sculptures to the use of natural materials and earthy tones. This design language tells the story of the land and its people, creating a subtle yet constant dialogue between tradition and modernity. It is not just décor; it is a cultural narrative that enhances the authenticity of the guest's experience.
The Experience
The resort offers unique cultural activities such as pottery rituals and mindful leisure programs. How do these experiences deepen guests’ connection with Cam Ranh’s local heritage?
Our experiences are designed to celebrate the essence of the destination. Activities like pottery rituals or local craft workshops invite guests to engage with local artisans, fostering appreciation for Vietnamese craftsmanship. Mindful leisure programs, such as sunrise meditation or herbal workshops from our JW Garden, encourage guests to slow down, observe, and connect with their surroundings in meaningful ways.
For families, the “Family by JW” program creates meaningful shared moments. Could you share examples of these experiences?
Family by JW focuses on togetherness and discovery. Families can cook together using herbs picked from our JW Garden, join sandcastle competitions by the beach, or enjoy storytelling sessions inspired by Vietnamese folklore. It is about creating shared memories that feel authentic to the destination while aligning with JW Marriott’s belief in balance, connection, and well-being.
For guests arriving for the first time, what are the key experiences or impressions you hope they’ll take away from JW Marriott Cam Ranh?
I want our guests to leave with a feeling of calm, connection, and inspiration. Whether it is the serenity of waking up to the sound of waves, a meaningful moment shared at our JW Garden, or a memorable dining experience overlooking the ocean, it is about rediscovering balance. Our goal is that guests do not just stay with us; they feel the destination and carry a piece of its stillness with them when they leave.
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JW Marriott Cam Ranh Bay Resort & Spa
📍 Lot No. D4C, Cam Lam Peninsula, Cam Lam, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam ☎️ +84 25-83995999 📧 JWRS.CamRanh.Reservation@marriott.com 🖥️ marriott.com | Facebook | Instagram |
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