Phu Quoc: What to eat, what to do, and where to stay?

What should we eat?

Interestingly, simply stopping at any eatery on the island, visitors can immediately feel the flavors of Phu Quoc permeating the air—the distinctive aroma of the island's most famous condiment: fish sauce. Fish sauce acts as a special catalyst, connecting the various facets of Phu Quoc's culinary culture into a unified picture: rich in flavor and unforgettable.

One of the famous dishes associated with this spice is herring salad. The authentic version combines thinly sliced ​​herring with grated coconut and fermented vinegar, resulting in a refreshing sour taste and pleasant aroma. The dipping sauce, made from Phu Quoc fish sauce mixed with lime juice, sugar, chili peppers, garlic, and crushed roasted peanuts, is the key element that gives this specialty its unique character.

When visiting Phu Quoc, you absolutely must try the local dish with the catchy name "bun quay" (stirred noodles). Fresh noodles are prepared on the spot; fresh shrimp, fish, and squid are finely ground and cooked in the noodle broth, seasoned with spices and plenty of chopped onions. The dish's appeal also lies in its "magical" dipping sauce, which diners are guided to make themselves from salt, sugar, seasoning powder, pepper, Phu Quoc chili, and kumquat.

Of course, seafood is definitely a must-try here. Dishes made from fresh seafood caught daily, such as grilled lobster over charcoal, sea urchin porridge, grilled oysters with scallions and butter, and various types of conch and snails, are so delicious that many diners have likened it to "bringing the whole ocean into your mouth."

What to play?

Phu Quoc is made up of 22 small islands, the most notable of which are Bai Sao, Bai Truong, Hon May Rut, Hon Mong Tay, Hon Mot, and especially Hon Thom. Tourists can easily find tours to explore the islands, go fishing, or snorkel to admire the coral reefs, experiencing a day living like a real fisherman.

On Hon Thom Island, visitors can explore the unique Hon Thom Natural Park or Aquatopia Water Park, the most modern water park in Southeast Asia. Phu Quoc Safari, located in Ganh Dau, is also a great option. This zoo and animal conservation area covers 380 hectares and currently cares for over 2,000 individuals of 140 extremely rare wild animal species.

If visitors prefer the tranquil local culture, destinations such as Ho Quoc Pagoda, Dinh Cau Temple, Duong Dong night market, pearl farm, pepper garden, or myrtle garden are all ideal places to visit.

Where?

Located on the shores of Long Beach, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort is considered an elegant icon of Phu Quoc Island. Its 459 guest rooms are decorated in a light and refined style, each featuring a private balcony to enjoy the sea breeze, creating a familiar, relaxing, and comfortable feeling like being at home.

The resort has four swimming pools, including a separate pool for families and children; and the Planet Trekkers Kids Club, which is 250 m² in size.²It also promises to bring endless joy to children. At HARNN Heritage Spa, treatment rooms floating on lotus ponds, designed with bamboo and featuring natural therapies, will help guests rediscover a sense of balance and relaxation from within.

For those seeking a high-end culinary experience, the resort's restaurants offer a delightful gastronomic journey of colors and flavors – with meticulously prepared dishes that retain their authentic local character. Finally, don't miss the INK 360 rooftop bar located on the 19th floor of the Sky Tower – a new landmark on Phu Quoc Island.

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort is currently offering a “Free Flights to Phu Quoc” promotion, applicable to guests flying from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City from now until the end of September 2020. The offer includes: room rates from only VND 4,700,000/night; round-trip airfare refund; airport pick-up and drop-off service; daily breakfast for two; and a 25% discount on food and beverage services (excluding alcoholic beverages) and laundry.

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort

• Tel: +84 283 978 8888

• Email: reservations.icpq@ihg.com

• Website: https://phuquoc.intercontinental.com/vi/YouFlyWePay

Lan Oanh