Vietnam is definitely one of the biggest holiday destinations for most of us. Besides being a food haven (we love a good bowl of Pho!), it’s also filled to the brim with culture and unique sights.
While places like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are definitely worth visiting, there are loads more places in this country that often go under the radar – take Phu Quoc for instance!
This island has just recently been grabbing the attention of tourists from all over the world and judging by the way things are headed, it looks like Phu Quoc is on its way to becoming one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia. So, what’s so special about this island? Well, allow us to show you!
1. It’s full of unique beaches and islands, minus the crowds
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Tired of going to famous tropical destinations and coming across beaches filled with tons of people? Well, Phu Quoc’s beaches and islands are a refreshing escape from the huge crowds of tourists. There are plenty of white sandy beaches all over this island, and the tiny islands surrounding it are also pretty uninhabited to boot! We definitely recommend checking out these spots;
- Starfish beach: Not only is it secluded, but it also has hundreds of beautiful red starfish scattered in its waters!
- Long Beach (aka Bai Dai beach): Phu Quoc’s most popular beach, home to a number of bars from where you can watch the sunset.
- Ong Lang beach: This hidden gem is one of the less crowded beaches with some of the clearest waters on the island.
- Sunset Sanato Beach Club: One particularly beautiful attraction everyone visiting this island has to see is located at this beach club along Long Beach, where its otherworldly statues add a breathtaking unique view of the sunset.
- Sao beach: With pristine white sand and clear turquoise water, this is one of Phu Quoc’s most secluded beaches.
- Hon Xuong island: This tiny islet is located towards the south of Phu Quoc, and it has a huge cave that meets the beach. Perfect spot to lie next to the waves if the weather gets a little too hot!
- Hon Dua island: Part of the An Thoi archipelago, this island at the south of Phu Quoc is easily one of the best places for snorkelling in Vietnam!
- Hon May Rut Trong island: If you’ve always wanted to see pearls fresh out of the oyster, this island is the place because it has its very own pearl farm!
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2. This island is rich in history
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One thing not many people know about Phu Quoc is that it has a lot of history. Be sure to check out these interesting places if you’re a history buff;
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- Phu Quoc Prison: This was first built by French colonisers to imprison the Vietnamese, and was later rebuilt in 1967 to keep war prisoners as well as communist soldiers.
- Gieng Ngu (aka The King’s Well): It was here where Prince Nguyen Anh and his soldiers were hiding from rebels when he suddenly stomped his foot and pointed his sword to the ground, causing the water to magically erupt!
- Nguyen Trung Truc: This historical temple is named after the island’s local hero who resisted French invaders in the 1800s. Free herbal medicine is also available to all visitors.
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3. Phu Quoc has a lot of untouched natural beauty
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One of Phu Quoc’s main attractions definitely has to be its natural beauty. Filled with plenty of beautiful scenery, this island has some amazing natural attractions you can experience, which include;
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- Phu Quoc National Park: Visitors can go hiking, snorkelling, and even kayaking.
- Da Ngon Stream: Take a dip in the cool refreshing waters while watching the wildlife go about their day in the jungle.
- Ham Ninh Mountain: If you’re in the mood for a hike and some breathtaking scenery, do not give this a miss!
- Vinpearl Safari: If you want to see just how much exotic wildlife Phu Quoc has to offer, definitely visit Vinpearl Safari, which is the island’s largest wildlife conservation park!
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4. It has beautiful temples and shrines in the least expected places
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One way to experience Vietnam’s culture is by visiting their temples, and Phu Quoc has plenty of them! If you’re looking to pay respects or to simply admire the unique architecture, here are some of the most unique temples and shrines you should visit while you’re in Phu Quoc;
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- Ho Quoc: This temple is one of Phu Quoc’s architectural wonders. It has a giant jade statue at its entrance because Phu Quoc is often referred to as “Emerald Island”.
- Mu Dinh Cau: Set on a large rock jutting out into the sea right at the mouth of Duong Dong river, this temple is situated next to an old lighthouse, with a unique view of the horizon.
- Su Muon Pagoda: Built in a relatively hidden part of Phu Quoc in 1932, this is the oldest Buddhist shrine on the island, attracting mainly local visitors.
- Cao Dai: This temple is dedicated to the Cao Dai religion, which has over 2 million followers all over Vietnam. Cao Dai is believed to have originated in Phu Quoc. This is definitely one unique temple to check out!
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5. Phu Quoc is a foodie’s paradise
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Vietnam is a food haven, and Phu Quoc can certainly attest to that! Here are some local restaurants and markets on the island that you have to try out for yourself;
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- Na Hang Song Le Restaurant: Located in Ham Ninh Fishing Village, this restaurant serves up the best Flower Crab dish on the entire island!
- Dinh Cau Night Market: Never tried sea urchins before? Then head on over to this market to get your hands on their freshly grilled sea urchins seasoned with spring onions.
- Kim Cuong I: If you’re on the hunt for what the locals eat, definitely give this place a visit! Everyone recommends their fried Abalone.
- Phu Quoc Night Market: If you want to try food and drinks that are unique to the island, this market is the place! We recommend trying Keo Chi Phu Quoc (sticky coconut candy) along with their locally brewed beer. Perfect after a long day in the hot sun!
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Source: phunuonline
Are you now hit with wanderlust and dying to visit this island? Then we’ve got news for you because AirAsia has just started offering direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Phu Quoc!
From 2nd November 2018 till 29th March 2019, AirAsia will have four weekly flights to Phu Quoc, making them the first airline to launch direct services to this gorgeous island!
The booking period is from now until 21st October 2018, and members get an exclusive all-in fare from RM99 (one way), while non-members’ all-in fare is from RM104. Great deal if you ask us!
So, what are you waiting for? Spend the end of the year in paradise and check out AirAsia’s website here to book your flight now!
