VI
EN
Once a popular destination known for its misty fishing villages, Phu Quoc has transformed, shedding its old image to become a fresh and exciting tourist destination. No longer confined to the image of a remote fishing island, the Pearl Island is becoming a focal point of international media attention. Recently, the Thai newspaper Khaosod English showered Phu Quoc with praise, explaining its appeal – a place now seen as a direct rival and a formidable challenger to long-established paradises like Phuket and Koh Samui.
The beach, the sunset, and the clear blue water.
Strategically located in the Gulf of Thailand and covering an area of 574 km2, Phu Quoc possesses a privilege not found in every resort island: pristine biodiversity. While Long Beach (Bai Truong) on the west coast is a vibrant destination with beachfront bars and fiery sunsets, Sao Beach in the southeast offers a tranquil haven. Here, stretches of fine white sand combined with emerald green waters create a new standard of tropical beauty, captivating travelers seeking absolute serenity.
The turquoise waters and fine white sand beaches are the defining features of Phu Quoc.
The world's longest over-sea cable car line connects the main island with the southern island cluster.
Phu Quoc's transformation has been most strongly driven over the past decade, as massive investment has turned the island into a "construction site" of dreams. Complexes like Sunset Town and Grand World have redefined the concept of an integrated destination. With its vibrant Mediterranean architecture, art plazas, and bustling shopping areas, Phu Quoc has created a vibrant nightlife entertainment ecosystem, perfectly meeting the demanding standards of international high-end tourists.
One of the symbols of local tourism pride is the Hon Thom cable car – the world's longest sea-crossing wonder. From an ideal altitude, the journey suspended amidst the clouds opens up a panoramic view encompassing the beauty of the bobbing fishing boats, the magical coral reefs, and the deep blue waters of the southern archipelago. This is not just a transportation experience, but a visual adventure, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur of nature. This experience is the "magnet" that makes Phu Quoc completely different from other destinations in the region.
However, the core value that makes Phu Quoc so enduringly charming lies in the interplay between the new and the old. Amidst the luxurious resorts, the soul of the island still exists in the slow pace of life in the ancient fishing villages. The traditional fish sauce production with its large wooden vats or the lush green pepper gardens are not just local products, but a carefully preserved "cultural depth." Phu Quoc cuisine, with its distinctive flavors from sea urchins, live squid, and fresh seafood grilled to perfection at the night markets, is truly captivating.
Phu Quoc has seen a surge in international tourists, particularly from Thailand and Northeast Asia.
Statistics for 2025, showing over 8.3 million visitors, including nearly 1.9 million international tourists, speak volumes about the success of the sustainable development strategy. Phu Quoc today is no longer a sleeping giant, but a thriving resort paradise, a convergence of tropical natural landscapes, top-notch entertainment infrastructure, and long-standing cultural values. With strategic advancements and a long-term vision, the Pearl Island is sure to make even stronger breakthroughs, becoming not only a source of pride for Vietnam but also a new tourism icon for the entire Southeast Asian region.
