Phu Quoc Island

Long secluded from the rest of the world, Phu Quoc Island is becoming the most happening tourist attraction in Vietnam. Blessed with long sandy coastlines, pristine warm seas and endless acres of tropical forest, Phu Quoc studs the Gulf of Thailand like a rare stone.

Get there before it is too late

Many visitors compare Phu Quoc to the islands of Thailand before they were over-developed, and warn that you should come see the place before it is too late.  It is true, the developers are moving in, and there are big plans in motion. For now, Phu Quoc is everything a tropical island should be, with white sand beaches, amazing sunsets, and a full range of quality hotels and resorts.

Go easy on the environment at eco-friendly resorts

Many Phu Quoc resorts go for a low-tech approach to protect the island’s fragile environment. Rooms are furnished with local timbers and rattan, and management restricts anything that would distract you from the paradise experience. That includes air-conditioners and blaring TVs. Many resorts double as spas with treatments to heal your body, mind and soul.

What to do on Phu Quoc

If lazing on a massage table or the beach is not your style, you could strap on a scuba tank and plunge into the virgin depths. If you’d rather stay on the surface you could join squid fishermen on their nightly hunt, or go snorkeling instead. Or hire a motorbike and explore this fascinating island on your own.

Eating and drinking

Phu Quoc abounds in seafood and the squid and tuna are especially renowned. Every hotel or resort worth its salt with have its own restaurant and bar, and possibly nightly barbeques on the beach. If you get bored you could try the food and drink at another nearby resort, or visit the standalone restaurants and bars in Duong Dong town and other population centers.

How to get there

Vietnam Airlines flies to Phu Quoc up to 11 times a day from Ho Chi Minh City ( early morning to early afternoon, the most flights at the busiest times of the year). Prices vary, but normally stays around $80 for a round trip ticket.

Favorite resorts

Chen La Resort and Spa - Simple yet refined, this might be the most beautiful place you can stay on Phu Quoc.

Cassia Cottage - Beach bungalows to a decent price.

Favorite restaurants

Ai Xiem - Tables and chairs are set up on the beautiful white sands of Sai Bao Beach.

Pepper Tree – On Long Beach. This is a high end establishment with stunning views and a French colonial décor.

Favorite bars/clubs

Eden Bar – Next to La Veranda Resort, this place has a pub-like feel and can get rowdy at night.

To read more about Phu Quoc Island, please visit www.phuquocisland.com.