Phu quoc island – The pearl in South of Vietnam

Boasting spectacular mountain scenery, friendly, laid-back locals and arguably the country's best beaches, Phu Quoc is Vietnam's very own tropical paradise. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, 45km from Vietnam and just 15km from Cambodia, the island is home to a growing number of luxury resorts and welcoming an increasing number of visitors, while retaining much of its sleepy rural charm. Capital Duong Dong is home to most of the resorts as well as some superb seafood restaurants, a lively night market and what passes for the island's nightlife; elsewhere you'll find deserted beaches, dirt roads, rainforests, and fishing villages exhibiting a way of life unchanged for centuries. Local specialities include black pepper from the island's many plantations and Phu Quoc fish sauce, claimed by many to be the world's finest. It's a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City or an even shorter one from Can Tho for those who want to combine a few days' relaxing on the beach with a visit to the fascinating Mekong Delta. Located off the tip of Vietnam’s south coast, Phu Quoc is a haven for nature and sea lovers looking for a place to unwind. The island is considered “off the beaten track” as it remains remarkably undeveloped. Phu Quoc’s virgin forests and pristine white sand beaches make this an ideal place for trekking, diving, and snorkeling. The infrastructure remains basic with dirt roads and a small number of four-star properties. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway without any distractions or a noisy nightlife then Phu Quoc is the ideal place to visit.

Phu Quoc might not be the secret it used to be, but there is still enough deserted white sand to spare on Vietnam's largest island.  The exterior is awash with untouched reefs, while the interior boasts protected forests and dirt roads that beg to be explored on motorbike.  Phu Quoc is one of the pricier places in Vietnam, but affordable beachfront accommodation can be found.  Get there soon because Phu Quoc is gearing up to become Vietnam's next big tourist destination. Phu Quoc Island District includes 36 islands of different sizes, of which Phu Quoc Island is the largest one with the area of 573km2. The island has tropical monsoon climate characterized by 2 distinct seasons, rainy season (June to November) and dry season (December to May). The annual average rainfall is 2,879mm.

Phu Quoc is also called "emerald island" due to its natural treasures and tourism potentials. The island has many beautiful beaches as Truong Beach, Khem Beach, Sao Beach... Especially, Phu Quoc National Park with the area of 31,422ha has a diversified ecosystem of 929 species of flora, 89 species of hard coral, 19 species of soft coral, 62 species of seaweed...

Phu Quoc has harbors of An Thoi and Hon Thom where ships anchor and exchange goods. Phu Quoc Island is also home to many historical sites such as national hero Nguyen Trung Truc's military base, Phu Quoc Prison...

The island is well known for its high-quality fish sauce. Phu Quoc fish sauce's smell is particularly good since it is made from anchovy (ca com), with a high level of protein. Besides, Phu Quoc sea also has many precious types of seafood as prawns, mackerels, pomfrets, blue fishes...

The transportation system in the island is growing rapidly. The transport routes between mainland and the island by air and sea are very convenient for tourists. Especially, Phu Quoc International Airport has put into operation since 2 December 2012 to facilitate the arrival of international tourists attracted by the island's beauty.

Phu Quoc might not be the secret it used to be, but there is still enough deserted white sand to spare on Vietnam's largest island.  The exterior is awash with untouched reefs, while the interior boasts protected forests and dirt roads that beg to be explored on motorbike.  Phu Quoc is one of the pricier places in Vietnam, but affordable beachfront accommodation can be found.  Get there soon because Phu Quoc is gearing up to become Vietnam's next big tourist destination.

Pepper & Pearls
Phu Quoc is famous both for its black pepper and for the quality of its pearls. Visit one of the island's many scenic pepper plantations and sample peppercorns at all stages of growth, and then visit a local pearl farm to learn more about pearl farming and purchase pearl jewellery.

The Wild Northwest
The northwest of the island offers quiet coves, charming fishing villages, rainforest treks and views of the Cambodian coastline. Tour the area by private car or for real adventure, go by motorbike.

Bai Sao Beach
Rated by many as the best beach in Vietnam, Bai Sao boasts turquoise waters, white sand, palm trees and fresh seafood. It's inaccessibility - it's located on the island's east coast down a narrow dirt track - and a lack of beachfront resorts means it attracts relatively few visitors.

Duong Dong Town
The island's capital is a fascinating place to spend a few hours. Photograph the colourful fishing boats in the harbour; dive into the chaotic wet market and shop for local pepper, seafood and fish sauce; visit the night market; and eat at one of the town's many excellent and inexpensive seafood restaurants.

Fishing
The waters off Phu Quoc are rich in squid and various fish species. Charter a private boat and hop between the small offshore islands, fishing as you go, and cook your catch on the onboard barbecue.

Getting here: A 20 minute flight from Rach Gia (Mekong Delta) or 50 minute flight from HCM City.