Whether it’s getting swept away in a fantasy, becoming a detective in a mystery, or embarking on an unforgettable journey of wellness and self-discovery, literature allows us to dive into a world of wonder, imagination, and spellbinding tales. And what better way to engross yourself in a compelling narrative than lounging by a resort pool perfectly suited to the story in your hand? Resorts around the globe that are part of Marriott Bonvoy transport readers to the most luxurious, romantic, and out-of-this-world pools — literary sanctuaries that evoke atmospheres suited for every kind of genre. Read on for a list of incredible hotel pools paired with their ideal book category that highlights how these aquatic masterpieces inspire travelers to escape into their own world.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Genre: Fantasy
Setting: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
Acclaimed resort designer Bill Bensley is best known for world-building within his utterly original designs. Stepping into JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa in Vietnam feels like a fever dream worthy of Lewis Carroll. Luxurious yet whimsical — a magical escape for both kids and adults alike — this spectacular design is set against the backdrop of a fictional 19th-century French university, which has been “refurbished” into an opulent beachfront playground. The award-winning pools are designed as a collection, each offering a different atmosphere to evoke fantastical aquatic experiences. There’s the mosaic-tiled Shell Pool, the tree-lined Sand Pool for total (story) immersion, and the adults-only Sun Pool to give couples a chance to relax. You may be engrossed in reading a fantasy novel, but rest assured, you’re already in one.
Genre: Mystery
Setting: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
Not only is Australia’s Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas the perfect introductory spot to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, it’s also surrounded by trees, giving readers complete coverage to cozy up with a good cliffhanger. The nearly five acres of palm-fringed lagoon-style pools filled with ocean water (part of the resort’s sustainable swimming practices) with shaded private cabanas on offer are ideal for diving into the latest mystery. Turn the page, and you’ll find yourself on the famous Four Mile Beach or surrounded by sprawling tropical gardens. And if it’s just a bit of hunger between you and solving the mystery, opt for poolside food and beverage service — the friendly staff is on the case.
Genre: Thriller
Setting: Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
This resort’s jaw-dropping ambience on a human-made archipelago in the Persian Gulf sets the stage for an action-packed page-turner. Located on the beachfront of the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai boasts a beachfront pool overlooking the picturesque cityscape. While the hustle and bustle of one of the most exciting places in the world is perched within view, the expansive pool offers a respite from suspenseful thrills. It’s easy to imagine running into a certain globe-trotting British spy at the swim-up pool bar, or perhaps soaking in one of four Jacuzzies. After a day of exploring, retreat to your private balcony with your page-turner of choice.
Genre: Wellness / Self-Help
Setting: Le Méridien Beach Plaza
At Monaco’s only hotel with direct access to a private beach, Le Méridien Beach Plaza, booklovers can treat themselves to a restorative escape perfectly in line with their well-being genre of choice. Self-care is paramount and thoughtfully curated via the heated indoor freshwater pool enclosed by a glass atrium that opens onto fragrant pines with sparkling views of the sea. Serenity recharges the senses and soothes the body with two seawater pools overlooking the coastline, bringing a refreshing connection to mind, body, and the Mediterranean. Nearby, two shallow family-friendly pools offer a relaxed and bright space for younger guests. Here, you’re not just reading about rejuvenation, you’re living it.
Genre: Romance
Setting: The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
Once upon a time, there was a Toronto waterfront hotel surrounded by sparkling lake views, boasting a towering facade and plush Heavenly Beds fit for a queen, king, or even the captain of a hockey team — a modern romantic setting if there was ever one. At The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, curl up on a comfortable teak chaise surrounded by bright light, and the year-round heated indoor pool becomes a cozy setting for losing yourself in a rivals-turned-lovers romance novel. In the summer, the pool terrace opens up so you can read outside. This fitness-focused hotel even offers a running concierge and yoga classes if you need to work up a sweat of your own. And if this heated rivalry gets too intense, cool off by visiting nearby attractions like the Hockey Hall of Fame or catching a hockey game at the arena.
Genre: Literary Fiction
Setting: The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Literary fiction often explores the complex interior worlds of its protagonists, which requires space for introspection. It’s hard to imagine a more evocative space for contemplation than the Sonoran Desert. Set against the backdrop of the Tortolita Mountains, The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain in Arizona offers a picturesque desert setting for a tranquil retreat and invites guests to immerse themselves in its sprawling swimming-pool complex. Three pristine swimming pools include the infinity-edge saltwater Turquesa Pool and the family-friendly Aventura Pool, which connects to a children’s splash pad with dancing fountains and a 235-foot waterslide. For the ultimate in human connection, the adults-only Serenity Pool at The Spa at Dove Mountain features a 10-foot tanning island with cabana rentals.
Genre: Adventure
Setting: W Maldives
Your getaway at W Maldives is the starting point for a luxurious literary adventure, one that begins even before you leave your guest room. The sound of the Indian Ocean lapping just beyond the infinity pool makes for an energetic soundtrack to your adventure pool experience. The palatial Oasis Beach Villas feature slides that run from the top floor straight into a private pool. Set sail for Gaathafushi, your own personal island, for a picnic in paradise, or go diving with reef sharks. For a more laid-back adventure, head over to the WET Deck and venture down the sleek waterslide in the outdoor pool. At this otherworldly hideaway, each day brings new, unexpected delights — perfectly complementing any adventure story.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Setting: Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa
This pairing is one for the history books. The multi-award-winning Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa is situated in Jordan, close to some of the oldest archeological sites on Earth. The sense of history is palpable; nearby you’ll find the Jordan Valley, Mount Nebo, the Baptism Site, the Jordan River, Mujib Reserve, Wadi Mujib Canyon, and the Panorama Dead Sea Complex. This aquatic oasis features an adults-only Dead Sea Pool, allowing guests to float in blissful serenity. For a family-fun resort pool experience, discover Splash Island, a vibrant family water-play zone. After nourishing yourself in the Dead Sea waters, settle into a private cabana and catch up on historical fiction while being immersed right in the center of it.
Genre: Poetry
Setting: Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, South Caicos
The combination of clear, turquoise waters with white sandy beaches ascending into jagged bluffs adorned with rare flora is quite poetic, don’t you think? Awash in vivid Caribbean colors, Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, South Caicos features four stunning swimming pools strategically placed across the resort. With so much natural beauty at your fingertips, don’t be surprised if you feel inspired to pen a verse or two yourself. The lagoon-style pool is the property’s most prized feature, a peaceful spot where the waters reflect the sea’s magnificent blues, blending Caribbean luxury with reconnection to nature. The ocean air never smelled so sweet.
Genre: Memoir / Biography
Setting: Nekajui Peninsula Papagayo, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Deep in the heart of the protected land of Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo, the secluded Nekajui Peninsula Papagayo, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve boasts a rich tapestry of gardens and natural wonders offering guests next-level accommodations with views of Playa Pochote and the Pacific Ocean — a superb spot to relish in the details of an author’s life. Minutes from the resort you’ll find the UNESCO Area de Conservación Guanacaste and Papagayo Park, complete with two waterslides, a poolside climbing wall, and a three-lane lap pool. Back at the resort, lounge by the Infinity Pool Terrace or at the Niri Beach Club and delve deep into the lives of great people.
Genre: Science Fiction
Setting: The St. Regis Lhasa Resort
At roughly 12,000 feet above sea level, the mountainous surroundings of The St. Regis Lhasa Resort could easily double as the film set for a distant planet. Located within the ancient Barkhor area with spectacular views, this luxurious accommodation overlooks the wondrous Xizang landscape and Potala Palace. But the most magnificent and intricately detailed amenity is the pool, lined with thousands of gold-colored tiles. And when the sun hits it exactly right, it exudes an otherworldly glow. So, grab that Hugo Award–winning work of fiction and be transported to another dimension.
Hero Video Credits: Photo: Marriott International. Illustration: Emma Darvick.
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