VI
EN
I arrived in Phu Quoc on a beautiful sunny day, determined to visit all the new and unique places on this beautiful, pristine, and mysterious island. Before embarking on a trip to the mountains and the sea, I and my companions visited Dinh Cau – a sacred and distinctive symbol of Phu Quoc – as if to "register for temporary residence" on the island for a few days.
Legend has it that long ago, fishermen sailing out to sea often encountered strong winds and waves, never to return. Suddenly, from the depths, a rocky outcrop gradually emerged, a good omen bestowed by heaven and earth upon the fishermen of Phu Quoc Island. People then came here to worship and pray for calm seas before setting sail again. Dinh Cau emerged and has been a spiritual anchor for the people of Phu Quoc ever since.
From Dinh Cau, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the sunset over the rolling waves, the sun casting its last rays of the day, gilding the sea with golden light. The shimmering golden reflection makes Dinh Cau even more breathtakingly magnificent.
On the second day of my exploration of the pearl island, I decided to become a "fisherman" on this beautiful island to feel and deeply appreciate the soul of Phu Quoc. The car sped along the trail towards the primeval forest – a place where the magnificent beauty of nature converges, with majestic trees, the sounds of birds and monkeys echoing amidst the pristine and profound wilderness. Passing through the dense forests, Bai Thom beach appeared before the traveler like a fairy hidden behind the forest, peaceful and unconcerned with the affairs of the world.
At Bai Thom beach, immerse yourself in the cool, blue water, diligently pull in fish, dive for sea urchins and snails, then gather with others to grill your catch right on the beach. The sea urchins, with their black, rough exteriors, have their sharp spines removed to reveal their round shape, then split in half, topped with a little scallion oil and peanuts; over the hot coals, they quickly release an irresistible aroma.
Only when you personally "harvest" the delicacies from the sea can you truly understand the hardships of the fishermen; the sea urchin and the snail seem richer on your tongue, their aroma mingling with the salty sea breeze, intoxicating.
The most special feeling is following the trail through the green forest to reach Da Ban Stream – a truly unique place in Phu Quoc island district. Unlike the gentle and crowded Tranh Stream, Da Ban Stream retains its pristine beauty with large, flat rocks resembling giant tables lying side by side, interspersed with a stream that sometimes rushes, sometimes murmurs day and night, and the peaceful shade of the forest canopy.
Legend has it that in ancient times, the Đá Bàn stream was where celestial nymphs would stop to bathe and frolic on the giant tables of nature when they descended to earth. The pleasure I experienced here was immersing myself in the crystal-clear stream water or bathing under the roaring waterfall; both were incredibly enjoyable.
After hours of fun and games, everyone sat on large rocks, enjoying the forest breeze, savoring grilled chicken and fragrant chicken porridge, feeling as if they had wandered into another world of paradise in Phu Quoc.
For the remaining days, I continued my exploration of Phu Quoc, leaving me with many lasting impressions of the southern part of the island. This included Bai Sao Beach, with its long stretch of white sand resembling a crescent moon, embracing rows of rustling green coconut trees.
Even better is taking a boat trip to Two Coconut Trees Island to begin your sea exploration journey. Two towering coconut trees sprout from the barren rocky island in the middle of the ocean, sparking curiosity and delight in visitors. Relaxing and swimming in the cool blue waters, admiring the vibrant coral reefs, or leisurely fishing from a boat – all are experiences I will never forget.
My 3-day, 2-night trip ended with a wealth of emotions about a beautiful island, steeped in colorful stories passed down through generations of Phu Quoc people. I've been there and experienced it, how about you? Pack your bags and go!
Cabaret Tourism and Trading Services Co., Ltd.
Address:264 Bis Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone:(84.8) 3932.5031
Website: www.cabaret.vn
