Phu Quoc is quickly earning recognition as more than a beach destination. Its evolving culinary scene now attracts travellers who value flavour, craftsmanship, and atmosphere as much as scenery. A refined fine dining restaurant in Phu Quoc offers something distinct, where local ingredients meet European technique in an elegant island setting. At La Veranda, fine dining feels relaxed yet polished, shaped by French influence, coastal surroundings, and a genuine respect for seasonal produce.
Why Phu Quoc Is Becoming a Fine Dining Destination
The island’s rise as a culinary destination is closely tied to its natural advantages. Fresh seafood arrives daily, tropical produce grows nearby, and international influences blend seamlessly with Vietnamese traditions. This balance has helped elevate fine dining in Phu Quoc, giving chefs the freedom to create menus that feel both refined and rooted in place.
Dining here feels unhurried, enhanced by sea views, warm evenings, and attentive service. As more travellers seek meaningful food experiences alongside relaxation, Phu Quoc continues to attract restaurants that value quality, technique, and thoughtful presentation.
Quiet conversations linger longer, and shared plates encourage connection, allowing flavours and memories to unfold slowly across the evening together.
Signature Dishes and Culinary Highlights to Try
Fine dining on Phu Quoc reflects a careful dialogue between cultures, where French technique enhances local flavours rather than overshadowing them. Influenced by French dining in Vietnam, menus often celebrate simplicity, balance, and seasonal expression, offering an experience shaped by fine dining gastronomy rather than excess.
Seasonal Seafood Creations: Freshly caught fish and shellfish prepared with classic techniques that respect natural flavour.
French-Inspired Sauces: Delicate reductions and emulsions that add depth without overwhelming the dish.
Locally Sourced Produce: Tropical herbs, vegetables, and spices used thoughtfully to reflect the island’s character.
Artful Presentation: Plates designed with restraint, allowing colour, texture, and composition to speak quietly.
Together, these elements create meals that feel refined yet approachable, inviting diners to savour each course at a comfortable pace.
The Peppertree: Award-winning Fine Dining Destination in Phu Quoc
The Peppertree stands as a defining example of refined island dining, recognised as an authentic French restaurant with a clear sense of place. Overlooking the sea, its elegant setting complements a menu that balances tradition with creativity, reinforcing its reputation as a leading fine dining restaurant in Phu Quoc.
Here, the focus remains on precision, seasonality, and flavour harmony. Each dish reflects the chef’s respect for French culinary foundations while embracing the freshness of local ingredients. Combined with attentive service and a calm ambience, dining at The Peppertree feels quietly memorable rather than theatrical.
Romantic and Special Occasion Dining in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc’s relaxed elegance makes it a natural choice for intimate dinners and celebrations. Whether marking an anniversary or planning a memorable evening, the island offers settings that feel personal and thoughtfully designed, appealing even to travellers searching for “fine dining restaurants near me” during their stay.
Candlelit Evenings: Soft lighting and gentle ocean sounds create a naturally romantic mood.
Sunset Dining: Tables positioned to capture changing colours across the sea.
Dinner Under The Stars: Every moment exudes romance as the sand and sea join forces to create the most memorable of backdrops. Under the twinkling stars and the gentle glow of torchlight, let your emotions soar with an exquisite beachfront dinner at La Veranda Resort Phú Quốc.
Personalised Touches: Menus and details tailored to meaningful occasions.
These experiences transform a meal into a moment worth remembering, shaped by atmosphere as much as cuisine.
Why Choose La Veranda Resort for a Luxury Culinary Experience
Dining at La Veranda Resort reflects the resort’s broader philosophy of understated elegance. French colonial architecture, sea-facing views, and attentive hospitality create an environment where fine dining feels both special and relaxed. Ingredients are selected with care, menus evolve with the seasons, and wine pairings are chosen to complement rather than dominate.
Service remains intuitive and warm, allowing guests to focus on the pleasure of the table. Those planning an evening of refined dining can explore the restaurant’s offerings or book a table to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted culinary experience during their stay.
FAQs
Does Phu Quoc offer luxury or French dining options?
Yes, the island features several refined restaurants, including venues inspired by French culinary traditions, offering elegant dining experiences in relaxed coastal settings.
What types of dishes can I expect at fine dining restaurants in Phu Quoc?
Menus often feature fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and dishes influenced by European techniques combined with Vietnamese flavours.
How do I book a table at a fine dining restaurant in Phu Quoc?
Reservations can usually be made directly through the restaurant or resort, either online or by contacting the dining team in advance.
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History of Phu Quoc
A Guide To The History Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc was first part of the Funan empire, then Chenia and eventually Khmer, which is probably why it was first the homeland of the Khmer people, who also occupied the Mekong Delta, before anybody else. At that time, the now referred to as Peal Island or Phu Quoc was known as Koh Tral, which changed into Phu Quoc with the arrival of the Vietnamese in 1600; however, it took them 20 more years before they were allowed to settle. Nevertheless, even after a century, Phu Quoc was still a desolated region where Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese lived together.
The Tay Son Rebellion (1600s-early 1800s)
The House of Nguyen was the last imperial family in Vietnam and a family clan with substantial military power and political influence, as well as the lordship of the southern part of central Vietnam, in the 17th century. It was believed to have been one of the most affluent clans of Vietnam for a really long time while there are mentions about King Gia Long, the founder of the Dynasty, spending his days after big battles in Phu Quo, indulging in spa-like treatments; a luxury only a handful had back then.
But, the Nguyens seem to have always been at war with the Trinh family, leading the country to several civil wars. Unable to unite the country under one ruler, the 17th century war ended in an uneasy peace that lasted 100 years until a rebellion sparked by the Tay Son heated things up again in 1774. After losing considerable manpower during a series of campaigns in Cambodia, the Nguyen clan could not maintain control, especially after the Trinh lords shook hands with the Tay Son rebels in 1775, and were eventually overthrown.
The Nguyen lord, 13-year-old Nguyen Anh, fled south and managed to escape Tay Son’s capture with the help of a Vietnamese Catholic priest and a French missionary, ending in the Tho Chu Islands in the Thailand Gulf. Between 1782 and 1786, Phu Quoc was the retreat Anh would turn to as the fights between the Nguyen and the Tay Son about Vietnam continued, until the early 1800s, when Anh finally defeated the Tay Son clan.
The France-Cambodia Treaty
In 1853, Cambodia’s king made a move to build relationships with France as a means to protect his kingdom against the Vietnamese and Siamese. So, he sent a letter to Napoleon III, which was never answered. The King made a second attempt to lure the French emperor by offering him Phu Quoc but was once more ignored. A third communication was initiated some years later when the King informed the French emperor of Cambodia’s claims on Phu Quoc and the lower Cochinchina region, asking the French not to annex any areas of these territories as, he claimed, had remained Cambodian despite the long Vietnamese occupation. A treaty between the two countries came a decade later, in 1863, when France annexed the region consisting of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc, and turned it into a French protectorate that was also referred to as Cochinchina.
Phu Quoc as a French Protectorate
The Vietnamese authorities in Phu Quoc pledged loyalty and commitment to the French troops that had annihilated Ha Tien already, in 1867. Two years later, they (the French) occupied the island and set up coconut and rubber plantations throughout Phu Quoc. At the same time, they requested for Chinese pepper farmers from the Hainan province to be brought here.
The French Protectorate placed Phu Quoc under the administration of France (through the administration of the Cochinchina Governor) in 1874, and under the inspection of the France-colonised Ha Tien district in 1875. Some years later, Cambodia, with help from the French, regained the northern provinces of Siam and was awarded the Vietnamese claim on Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta.
Phu Quoc remained under Cochinchina administration, though, when General and Governor of French Indochina placed the islands north of the Gulf of Thailand under the Cambodian protectorate, leaving the southern ones to be managed by the Cochinchina. However, this distinction was not addressing sovereignty rather than administrative and police tasks. Finally, Phu Quoc and the remaining areas of the Cochinchina territory were attached to Vietnam in 1949 with a French ruling, which also included some rights of the Khmer people that were living on the island and any Vietnamese territory.
The Coconut Prison
The island of Phu Quoc houses one of the largest prisoner camps during the Vietnam War built by the French colonialists to incarcerate Vietnamese people. Known as Coconut Tree Prison, it was rebuilt in 1967 into a prison for communist soldiers. In several periods, it held nearly 40,000 prisoners, both communist soldier and political prisoners alike. With a guard-prisoner ratio of 1-2, Coconut prison was one of the strictest ones with profound guard force that remained in history as the place were extremely brutal crimes took place. Phu Quoc war prisoners suffered tortures and punishments that are hard to imagine could ever be generated from a human mind while thousands died in jail due to exhaustion, food deprivation, and after undergoing barbaric torments day after day, month after month. In the end, though, some of them managed to endure the suffering and not only divide the enemy ranks but also find ways to escape by digging tunnels and more.
In the meantime, Phu Quoc also suffered incursions and counter-incursions when the Khmer Krom (Phu Quoc included) was the object of desire for both the Khmer Rouge (Red Cambodians) and Vietnam. In the 1970s, the first seized power in Cambodia and went on a mission to reclaim Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta; one of these raids ended in the massacre of 500 Vietnamese civilians. All this fighting escalated the Cambodia-Vietnamese War.
In 1993, Phu Quoc prison was declared a historical monument and now serves as a war museum, occupying the main area of the former jail, and displaying original artifacts and other exhibits, including life-sized wax mannequins reproducing some of the agonizing moments and suffering prisoners lived back then.
Every year, Coconut Prison welcomes former prisoners, locals from all over the country, and tourists alike to its premises, showing them a piece of Vietnam’s history that will never be forgotten. Even today, Cambodia still claims Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta.
Phu Quoc Today
After leaving behind the wars and killings of the past, Phu Quoc has started to unveil its real beauty, unrolling its true potential as a tourist destination. With much natural beauty distinguished by lush jungles, pristine beaches, and imposing mountains, Phu Quoc is beginning to enter the game of hospitality, with some areas hosting luxury resorts.
Tourism is becoming a source of income for an increasing number of residents, and Phu Quoc has its topographically varied, green land to thank for. Heart-stopping forested mountains, lowland, tropic evergreen forests, and flourishing river plains give way to sugary beaches and secluded coves, enticing all those that come or live here with the changing landscape. Even the underwater world allures with the great quality coral reefs in the northern and southern part of the island. Without losing its originality and authenticity, Phu Quoc is gradually moving towards modernisation and development.
Considering that for a significant part of its history Phu Quoc was primarily dominated by the military due to the political imbalance and sensitivity concerning the rights of the island, it feels that Phu Quoc is now reclaiming what it lost and what it was deprived of all these years. Until all the development planned takes place and transforms the area, we will have lots of overwhelming charm and appeal in forests turned into national parks, rainforest areas being well-protected under national conservation laws, tens of fish sauce-producing factories, a large number of top quality pepper farms, and so many more.
Interesting Facts About today’s Phu Quoc:
The island grows coconut, durian, jack-fruit, banana, rambutan, and mango.
It has a high-quality black pepper that it exports to the corners of the world (more than 400 tons every year).
The total area of pepper cultivation reaches 500 hectares, with each hectare having between 2,500-3,000 strings, which produce about 3,000kg of peppers per hectare.
It has about 100 fish sauce factories producing the best fish sauce repeatedly thanks to its rich anchovy catches from which the sauce is made (10 million litres of sauce annually).
Fish sauce was an idea of fishermen some hundreds of years ago, when there were no fridges or ice to preserve the fish they could not consume. Mixing fish with salt (to prolong fish life) turned into a sauce with a strong flavour after a period of time (around a year) from the fermented fish.
Phu Quoc’s popularity as a tourist destination for luxury travellers and adventure seekers is growing by the day, which is why one can find a broad spectrum of accommodation, from high-end hotels to hostels.
In a Nutshell
What appears to describe Phu Quoc’s history is a struggle to stand on its feet and stay alive from more aspects than one. Lacking the fertile soils of the Mekong Delta and experiencing relatively dry weather, you won’t find rice raddles on the island. Plus, given that Phu Quoc has served as a place of exile and refuge for a wide range of people, from revolutionaries and rebels to warlords for many centuries, it is no wonder that it has remained relatively underdeveloped.
That aside, Pearl Island sits right on top of the border that separates Chinese and Indian-influenced Asia; one of the country’s cultural fault lines. This means that Phu Quoc has clashing work ethics, cuisines, religions, and cultures that are battling to prevail over its people, who, for hundreds of years, were Vietnamese.
For those looking for luxurious accommodation on Phu Quoc Island look no further than La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc. This 5 star boutique resort on Phu Quoc offers a variety of room types, including garden-view rooms, sea-view rooms, and suites. The resort also boasts several restaurants serving local and internatioal cuisine,and one of the most luxurious spas in all of Phu Quoc Vietnam.
I. HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND VIETNAM?
Travelling inside Vietnam is quite easy. In most of the cities, there are local bus systems with one-way ticket of 7,000VND (about 0.3USD) for one person. Maps with bus routes can be easily found in every bookstore. The bus will follow a fixed route, thus it is necessary to check whether the bus is heading to your target destinations.
Another popular means of transport is the “xe om”, which is simply the motorbike taxi. There are several “xe om” drivers who are sitting on their scooters and wearing helmets. Recently, two big “xe om” systems have been launched by Grab, which offer cheaper prices and better safety. If going with traditional “xe om” drivers, it is better to negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid being overcharged. On the contrary, if travelers use Grab services, they might get a great deal without having to bargain.
Taxis are also plentiful in the cities. For the sake of safety, go with reputable taxi companies such as Mai Linh, Vinasun. Grab and Uber provide taxi services, too. Be careful when going with independent taxis because they often overcharge travelers, especially foreign tourists.
Regarding traveling to other regions within Vietnam, three main options are available: flight, bus, and train.
Vietnam has four domestic airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VASCO (a spin-off of Vietnam Airlines), VietJet Air, and Jetstar Pacific. Vietnam Airlines and VASCO are the most reputable agencies which are renowned for their service and timeliness. The other two are budget airlines offering cheaper tickets. However, their additional services and flight delays have been falling into disrepute.
Another low-budget way to travel around Vietnam is by long-range buses. Sleeper buses are preferable for long journeys (4 hours and more), even though the seats are quite small for foreigners. It might be hard for taller passengers to stretch out completely. Buses are normally affordable, but some people recommend that travelers should not go at night due to road safety issues.
The last option is going by train. Going by train takes the same amount of time as by buses. Trains provide more space and facilities than buses, and more importantly, it is safer to go by train. In addition to the ordinary tickets, some agencies provide privately-run sleeper-car attached to the train. There are luxury services, but it might cost a considerably high expense. Train tickets are sold at the railway stations, via travel agencies, or via your hotels. Visitors can also book the tickets online.
Many adventurous travelers love to rent motorbikes for their trekking trips. They can freely go wherever and whenever they want. Some even choose to buy motorbikes and pass it on at the end of their journeys. Remember that a Vietnamese driving license is required if you want to ride a motorbike in this country.
II. WHERE TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM?
Vietnam is a beautiful country which offers several interesting destinations for different groups of travelers. Followings are some most recommended tourist attractions in this S-shaped country.
Halong Bay
Recognized one of new Seven Wonders of the World, Halong Bay has proved itself as a wonderful destination for Vietnam tours.
Halong Bay consists of thousands of majestic limestone islands and islets that are covered by turquoise sea water. Taking a Ha Long Bay trip, visitors will spend their time discovering the sheer beauty of narrow lagoon and grottoes while gliding on the blue ocean.
You can go aboard on tourist boats to travel around the Bay. Not only can you watch the spectacular limestone and caves, you can also visit some floating villages such as Cua Van, Vung Vieng, and Cong Dam to see the life of people there. For more luxury trips, there are high-end cruises available for overnight tours on the Bay. You may catch the glorious sunset on the sea or watch the sparkling night sky while getting served with best services. Also, it is interesting to go kayaking around the Bay. With its significant geological value, Halong Bay has been listed as UNESCO World Natural Heritage for two times.
Hanoi
Of course, Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam cannot be missed in any Northern Vietnam destination lists. The beautiful and peaceful city with a thousand years of history possesses alluring beauty which has been highly appreciated by both local and foreign tourists.
The thousand-year capital of Vietnam still well preserve some tangible and intangible value of a nation with long-lasting history. Here exists the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – the social and political center of Vietnam under Ly, Le, and Tran Dynasties. It was also where French Government worked during their conquest of Vietnam. Hence, travelers can see the cluster of Eastern and Western Cultures, especially through architecture here. Next to the citadel stands the mausoleum of Uncle Ho – the great leader of the country during Vietnam War, who has also inspired millions of people all over the world. Some famous relics like Hanoi Flag Tower, North Gate and D67 Tunnel and House are also situated in this area.
There are many other worth-visiting places to explore in Hanoi such as Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, West Lake, and Duong Lam ancient village, where you can approach Hanoi’s culture and daily lives. Especially, the specialties in Hanoi Old Quarter will definitely amaze you.
Sapa
Located in the mountainous Northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is perhaps the most haunted destination for adventurous trips in northern Vietnam. The exquisite scene of the natural settings with dense jungle and the colorful rice terraces is an undeniable allure to travelers. Sapa is also home to many ethnic minority groups such as H’Mong, Tay, Dao, and Thai. Coming to Sapa, travelers can discover the incredibly beautiful landscapes as well as the culture of the tribal people. Visitors can try on the colorful traditional clothes, do farming in terraced rice fields, or participate in Bac Ha traditional market. Additionally, they can pay a visit to Fansipan Peak – the summit of Indochina at the height of 3143 meters, coming across jungles and climb up the mountain to get a unique wilderness experience while taking a bird’s eye view of the whole area.
Not only does Sapa displays Vietnamese’s culture, the small town also shows the influences of the West. Travelling around Sapa town, visitors can easily find French-style villas and homes, as well as some modern public buildings.
Ha Giang
With rugged mountains, spectacular terrace fields, deep valleys, and dense forests, Ha Giang is an ideal place for northern Vietnam tours.
The majestic landscapes flanked by high mountains (Tay Con Linh and Kieu Lien Thi), mighty rivers (Lo and Mein Rivers) and detailed with waterfalls, valleys, forests, and distinct limestone formations have made Ha Giang an irresistible destination for nature lovers. The province offers spectacular views that are exceptionally suitable for the intrepid escapade. Paying a visit to Ha Giang will enable travelers to experience as a local. You can stay with local people and trek through colorful terraced rice fields and villages of the ethnic minority in most isolated areas, where has not been influenced by mass tourism.
Some must-stop tourist attractions in Ha Giang are Dong Van Rocky Plateau Geopark, the Palace of Vuong Family, Lung Cu Peak, Meo Vac, Khau Lai Love Market, Quan Ba Valley, and Happiness Road.
Ninh Binh
Located just about 3 hours driving from Hanoi, Ninh Binh Province is famous for its spectacular landscapes and cultural values. Trang An Landscape Complex has been recognized as the World’s Cultural and Natural Heritage. With marvelous limestone peaks and caves surrounded by rice paddies, Trang An is one of the best destinations in Vietnam for foreign travelers.
In addition to tranquil landscapes, Trang An has high cultural values. Caves’ archaeological deposits represent human occupation and utilization lasting for more than 30,000 years. There also stands Hoa Lu Citadel – the capital of Vietnam under Dinh Dynasty. Many historical vestiges still remain today. Moreover, Bai Dinh Pagoda, the biggest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia with many world and regional records, is situated in this beautiful province.
To explore the beauty of Ninh Binh travelers can pay a visit to Trang An, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Bai Dinh pagoda, Hoa Lu Citadel, etc. These attractions are located closely and will offer you unforgettable experiences.
Quang Binh
Quang Binh is favored with marvelous landscapes. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a renowned tourist attraction recognized by UNESCO as the World Natural Heritage. The complex of Phong Nha – Ke Bang consists of several marvelous caves and grottoes with fantastic stalactites and stalagmites such as Phong Nha, Tien Son, Toi, Thien Duong, and Thuy Cung. Son Doong – the world’s largest cave is also located in this region. With mysterious scenery insides, the caves and grottoes have attracted a huge number of local as well as foreign tourists. Quang Binh is also home to famous beaches such as Da Nhay and Nhat Le beaches – which are perfect for summer escape.
Additionally, Quang Binh includes several historical and cultural relics such as Hoang Phuc pagoda, Dao Duy Tu rampart, and Dong Hoi citadel. The cultural archaeological site of Bau Tro, Phu Luu bronze Drum, which existed in the same era as Dong Son Drum is also found in this province.
Hue
Once the capital of Vietnam during Nguyen Dynasty, Hue remains its ancient looks and loyal customs. The complex of Hue Citadel and the Imperial Court Music have been recognized as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The complex consists of the Imperial Citadel of Hue, royal tombs, and monuments of Nguyen dynasties such as Tu Duc, Minh Mang, and Khai Dinh. Moreover, Hue is the city of pagodas and temples. The most famous pagoda is called Thien Mu pagoda nestled to the north of the poetic Perfume River.
Cuisine and costume are also the attractions of Hue. Visitors may have chances to sample the special delicacies in Hue and buy home some specialties as souvenirs such as Me Xung and Tom Chua. More interestingly, you might catch the sight of Hue’s girls in their traditional “Ao Dai” and “Non Bai Tho” who are cycling their bikes on their ways to school. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of Hue will definitely leave visitors in awe!
Da Nang
Da Nang is a dynamic city in Central Vietnam. The city is renowned for its modern lifestyle, cleanliness, and safety. Da Nang is among the most popular destinations in Vietnam thanks to its richness in natural landscapes as well as cultural values. Non Nuoc Beach in Da Nang is listed one of the most beautiful seashores in the world, which is indubitably suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Marble Mountains – the five limestone hills named after five elements of the ancient oriental philosophy, which are metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, is another attractive place to visit. These mountains are also home to several temples and pagodas in mysterious caves.
Ba Na Hills – an amusement complex in Truong Son Mountain Range is a must-stop destination in the city. It used to be a resort founded by French colonizers in early 20th century with more than 200 Western-style villas, but only a few of them remains today. Ba Na attracts travelers with dense rainforests, waterfalls, and its bio-ecological diversity. Additionally, a notable attraction in Ba Na is the Southeast Asian’s biggest indoor amusement center. The Fantasy Park opens a lively and attractive entertainment world with many fascinating games for all ages. Also, Ba Na consists of many alluring places such as Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, Debay Wine Cellar, Linh Ung Pagoda, and French Village.
Hoi An
Once the major trading port of Asia, the ancient town of Hoi An is the place where visitors can discover the long-lasting culture of Asia in general and Vietnam in particular. The foreigners came from all corners of the world but most of them were from China and Japan. Many have settled in permanently and etched their marks into the history of Hoi An.
A tour to Hoi An will offer you an enlightening journey to the past. The well-preserved hundred-year-old houses and buildings enable travelers to take a closer look at the influences of Chinese, Japanese, French, and Spanish cultures in the region. Also, it is great to explore the cluster of different cultures via Hoi An festivals and cuisine. Taking a boat alongside the Thu Bon River, visiting significant historic vestiges, watching the colorful lanterns at night, or catering to the flocks of tourists on its narrow streets to sample the foods would bring about unforgettable moments.
Nha Trang
Nha Trang consists of one of the most famous Vietnamese seashores which has been listed as one of the best beaches in the world. Located in Southern Vietnam, Nha Trang is a dynamic city which stands by the sea. The city has several stunning white-sand beaches such as City Beach and Hon Chong Chenh. Not only can travelers dive into the cool turquoise sea water, sunbathe in the long sandbank, they can also participate in modern water sports such as wakeboarding, kite surfing, and banana boat rides. What’s more, in Hon Chong Chenh beach stands a rock formation that stretches towards the sea, which is an ideal place to take photos.
Mui Ne
Recently Mui Ne has attracted huge attraction from tourists thanks to its marvelous beaches and sand dunes. There exist enormous white and golden sand dunes sloping gently to the ocean – the exquisite scenery of natural settings that is rarely seen in tropical countries. It is regarded as “the little Sahara desert” of Vietnam.
Additional to swimming and participating in water sports, travelers can have some other interesting outdoor activities in the dunes such as kite-flying, jeep-driving, and sled-riding. Also, watching the glorious sunset with lovers on the sand dunes is an exceptionally romantic experience.
Ho Chi Minh City
Regarded as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City (also called “Saigon”) was the center of economics and entertainment of Indochina. It was named after the great leader of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Modern skyscrapers amidst Oriental-style pagodas and significant relics create a dynamic urban area in a very special sense.
The architecture, along with the lifestyle of Saigon, is the reconciliation between American and Chinese influences, with many dots of modernity yet without losing traditional traits. The Independence Palace, which marks the reunification of the North and the South in 1975 and the end of Vietnam War, is a must-visit destination. Other relics such as Cu Chi tunnels, Dragon House Wharf, and Notre Dame Cathedral are also amazing to explore.
Mekong Delta
Nestled in the southernmost of the country, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta is considered the country’s breadbasket. This region provides more than half of Vietnam’s rice. It is also the land of tropical fruits.
Coming to Mekong Delta, travelers can take on a boat gliding along Mekong River to come across enormous rice paddies and explore the life of friendly Southern people. You can also take time to visit the floating markets such as Cai Rang and Phong Dien to buy fresh flowers and fruits, or to listen to “Don Ca Tai Tu” – Southern Vietnam’s traditional music.
Phu Quoc Island
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc – the biggest island in Vietnam has been increasingly popular with travelers. Phu Quoc Island is famous for its big tropical forests, beautiful white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. The island remains intact from human’s influences as more than 70% of it belongs to Phu Quoc National Reservation Park. Here travelers can spend your holidays on exploring the forests, the blue-green sea, or visiting the traditional villages.
There are many stunning beaches in Phu Quoc such as Long Beach, Thom Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach. Some are perfect for swimming, while some are ideal for sightseeing. These are extraordinarily suitable for honeymoon or couple tours. Also, Phu Quoc is home to some specialties such as fish sauce, pepper, and pearl. Many fish sauce factories, pepper plantations, and pearl farms are available to visit.
Plenty of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and café bars have been opened to serve the increasingly high number of both local and foreign tourists.
Followings are some recommended hotels and beach resorts:
InterContinental (IHG)
InterContinental Hotels Group holds a number of luxury hotels in Vietnam. It manages eight luxury hotels and resorts in the prime locations of the three major cities: Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. InterContinental brand has 6 hotels including Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Hanoi Westlake, Hanoi Landmark 72, Asiana Saigon, Asiana Saigon Residences, and Phu Quoc Resort.
Regarding Crowne Plaza brand, there are The Crowne Plaza Danang, West Hanoi, West Hanoi Residences, and Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc. They are more modest than the InterContinental ones.
VinPearl (VinGroup)
VinPearl is a system of hotels with 5-star services and facilities in beautiful beaches of Vietnam.
Starting with Vinpearl Nha Trang, Vinpearl has developed into a chain of luxury hotels and beach resorts throughout Vietnam. Vinpearl is currently developing its tourism and hospitality products with Vinpearl Resort (five-star standard), Vinpearl Luxury (over 5 stars), and Vinpearl Resort & Villas. List of Vinpearl Resorts is as follows:
– Nha Trang: Vinpearl Nha Trang Resort, Vinpearl Nha Trang Bay Resort & Villas, Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang, Vinpearl Golf Land Resort & Villas, and Vinpearl Nha Trang Long Beach Villas.
– Phu Quoc: Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort, Vinpearl Phu Quoc Resort & Golf, Vinpearl Phu Quoc Ocean Resort & Villas, Vinpearl Phu Quoc Paradise Resort & Villas, and Vin Oasis Phu Quoc.
– Da Nang: Vinpearl Da Nang Resort & Villas, Vinpearl Da Nang Ocean Resort & Villas, and Vinpearl Hoi An Resort & Villas
– Ha Long: Vinpearl Hạ Long Bay Resort
– Nghe An: Vinpearl Nghe An
– Ha Tinh: Vinpearl Hà Tĩnh Ocean Villas
FLC Resorts (FLC)
Another big Vietnamese corporation with a series of luxury hotels and resorts is FLC. This group has resorts at the most beautiful beaches, namely Halong (FLC Ha Long), Quy Nhon (FLC Quy Nhon and FLC Sea Tower Quy Nhon), Sam Son (FLC Sam Son Beach and Golf Resort, FLC Luxury Sam Son Resort), and Quang Binh (FLC Quang Binh).
La Veranda (MGallery Hotel Collection)
La Veranda looks like a French mansion on the beach. It is among the top resorts in the beautiful island of Phu Quoc, Vietnam. With high-end services and perfect natural settings, the resort offers unforgettable moments to tourists, especially for those who are on honeymoon or family holidays. The majestic beauty of Phu Quoc Beach makes it even more romantic.
Find Out More
History of Phu Quoc
Transportation
Vietnam Hotels & Beach Resorts