Destination Guide

Tours in Phu Quoc

Posted on 14/04/202014/05/2024 by Sai Gon Web Co., Ltd

14
Apr

As it emerges from Vietnam’s southern tip, the charming island of Phu Quoc rightfully deserves the Pearl Island nickname. Holding unseen beauty inside it, it provides plenty of ways to live life here. Some of these are illustrated in the following tours.

Diving Tour in Phu Quoc

There is an exciting ecosystem living inside the limpid waters of Phu Quoc, full of healthy coral reefs, many different types of fish, and more beauty that a human mind can digest easily. Taking a diving or snorkeling or scuba diving tour is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you decide to join one or set out on your own, know that it is best to run this trip in the morning as the seas can get pretty rough in the afternoon and you really want to be on shore when that happens! So start the day early and begin this fascinating dive into the rich Phu Quoc underwater world at some of the greatest dive sites on the island enjoying calm, current-free waters, such as:

Hon Ko – When looking at Hon Ko from up above many people falsely believe that it is nothing more than a bunch of rocks arising from the water. Once down there, though, everything changes as if by magic. Besides an impressive reef system, Hon Ko also boasts a rich plethora of tropical fish, like rays, catfish, and bamboo sharks, as well as a fab selection of nudibranchs and mitre shells to name a few.
Nudibranch Gardens – You will find it on the east side of Phu Quoc, and it will surely leave you in awe. Being the perfect diving spot for beginners due to its shallow depth, Nudibranch Gardens is also one of the most phantasmagoric sites on the island and home to more than 2,000 nudibranchs species. Diving here will also give you the opportunity to come face to face with bamboo sharks, which, most of the times, prefer to relax underneath a rock. Because of its low depth, the Gardens can also be appreciated with a snorkel!
Turtle Island – This small island on the northeastern coast of Phu Quoc (about an hour’s boat ride) is around 50 metres in length and no more than 10 metres deep, which makes it the ideal location to explore marine life with relative ease. Surrounded by shallow, calm waters, Turtle Island is also a hospitable habitat for cute creatures like yellowtail damselfish, blue-ringed angelfish, and stonefish and a blossoming environment for the coral reefs and the life around them.
An Thoi Islands – Those looking to take their adventure to the next level will find An Thoi Islands challenging their diving skills as they provide dive sites that can reach 25 metres. This small group of around 15 islets off the south coast of Phu Quoc is listed as one of the most spectacular dive sites in the country. From gigantic sea urchins and butterfly fish to scorpion fish, parrotfish, and fan corals, you have a lot of marine life to startle you. Bamboo sharks and blue-spotted rays also pass by so you may as well spot one or two as you splash these waters.

Now, if you prefer to go scuba diving or snorkelling, these sites will also do, so give them a try. However, you could also consider May Rut Island, Dam Ngang, and Finger Island as they are too on the list of the best snorkelling sites around Phu Quoc. They are full of colourful fish and some of the most diverse coral reefs on this planet. Note: To be able to enjoy this tour the most, it might be best to plan these activities anytime between November and May. That way, the weather will be your cordial ally, allowing you to take in every single moment of this experience.

Tour to Vinpearl Safari Park & Vinpearl Land

The largest wildlife conservation park in Vietnam is found here, ready to treat you with a plethora of fun games and activities for all ages while offering you the chance to spot animals that not many people have seen, such as beautiful flamingos, giraffes, striped hyena, gibbons, African lions, and Bengal tigers. The best way to get around the park and see it all is by taking a safari bus tour as the place is massive and exploring it on your own may cause you to miss some interesting sites (or even get lost). As for Vinpearl Land, it is an excellent option for families too and a fantastic place for some wild splashes in the wave pools. Glide down the water slides at the water park and spike your adrenaline at the amusement rides. If you still have enough energy after all this fun, do enter the aquarium as it is indeed worth it, especially if you are lucky enough to attend a live show at the amphitheatre! Hungry? The food village is full of delicious foods to quench your appetite. Go back in. There is still the indoor games arcade, the manmade beach, and live shows that you have not yet played, visited or seen!

The National Park & Cua Can River Tour

A tour to the Phu Quoc National Park, which is basically half the island, is not to be missed. Take your time and let your eyes get used to such profound beauty, unlike anything else seen before. Raw, jugged cliffs, verdant valleys, lush forests, karst limestone formations, swirling rivers, beautiful ponds, and so many more comprise a scenery that is hard to imagine. While there, you can take a short hike, go on a kayak ride, throw yourself to some romantic paddling with your significant other, tour local farms and enjoy a bit of sunbathing and swimming at Dai Beach.

Mekong Delta Tour

The Mekong Delta is a popular pole of attraction that offers you the chance to actually realize how simple life is here, see the villages located on the banks of the Delta, visit the floating market of Cai Rang, and, why not, spend a night abroad a wooden cruise boat under a star-lit sky. You will soon acknowledge that the little communities here are like buzzing beehives, with everybody doing a specific task, mainly related to rice growth or fishing. There are also fruit orchards and lots of local produce that the locals use to create delicious dishes, which you may taste if you wish to while you are there. This can easily be a 2-day or even 3-day cruise and can stretch to Ho Chi Minh City if want to go even further. Without a doubt, though, spending the night on the Mekong River can be mind-blowing as you will be surrounded by pristine beauty and so much bustling life around you. Even the sound of the river and the sight of the rising rise are a marvel on their own. So, when you wake up the next morning after a brief introduction with the locals, you can board a sampan and travel to the floating market of Cai Rang and purchase anything from local handicrafts to exotic vegetables and fruit that are so abundant around here from friendly merchants on their boats, who love to chat with foreign people. After another full day, you can head to Rach Gia and catch the ferry to Phu Quoc or continue sailing with your boat, speedboat or whatever else. Notes about this tour:

Since you will be spending a lot of time on the river, do bring insect repellent with you to avoid insect bites.
The nights here can get chilly so besides wearing comfortable clothes for light walking don’t forget to throw a light jumper in your backpack.
On the day of travel, bring your passport with you; you may need it as you exit Phu Quoc and explore the areas covered in this tour.

Island Hoping with a Speedboat

If you have some 8 hours to spare on a speedboat, you can have a fantastic day exploring not only one but up to four exotic islands around Phu Quoc within a day’s time. Fingernail, Dam Ngand, May Rut, and Pineapple islands invite you to views that are just beyond words. The beaches are simply amazing, with magnificently white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. As for the vistas at the archipelago, they can be heart-stopping. With the jungle behind the shores, each one these small paradise islands look like a postcard image. Among the things you can try during this tour is fishing, swimming, relaxing in the sun, discovering awesome coral reefs and, of course, enjoying a mouth-watering lunch prepared freshly on-site which may include the fish you caught, as well as other seafood (the islands are full of crabs and big, colourful fish).

Cable Car Ride Pho Quoc-Pineapple Island Tour

The cable car is a relatively new attraction in Vietnam and an exceptional option for a tour that will give you panoramic sea views and a unique sense of freedom, always in a safe and protected environment. The Phu Quoc cable car has also made it to the Guinness Book of World Records for being the longest non-stop, 3-way cable car in the world at almost 8 kilometres long. The ride to Pineapple Island takes no more than 15 minutes (each way), which leaves you with enough time to savour amazing 360^o views of the An Thoi Archipelago dotted by charming fishing boats, turquoise coral reefs, and green islands. Once you reach Pineapple Island (the cable car will leave you at Hon Thom Nature Park), you may start with relaxing by the golden-sand beach that features a fun playground, swings from the palm trees, and deck chairs. If you get hungry, a couple of restaurants along the beach will satisfy you. Depending on the day, you may also catch an entertainment show while eating that involves various types of dancing and people doing fire-dancing tricks, among others. Notes about this tour:

As you will be spending some time up in the air, it is recommended to wear sunscreen and sunglasses.
The cable car tickets usually include free return tickets to the Pineapple beach described above.

Night Squid Fishing Tour

Fishing is one of the most popular activities around the island of Phu Quoc. Therefore, it is without a doubt something you need to experience during your stay here. Night squid fishing tours are awesome as you get to hop on a local squid boat and learn the secrets of catching fish; an activity turned into art by these skilled locals. As you are on-board a fisherman’s boat, you have the unique opportunity to watch the sunset in the Gulf of Thailand, which is simply arresting, and feel the peacefulness and serenity that comes along with this venture.

South Phu Quoc Tour

Each part of this beautiful island has its own charms and attractions. Going on a South side of the island tour will allow you to visit places such as the Coconut Prison, where prisoners of war were incarcerated and brutally tortured, and Sim Winery and learn more about the island’s pearl harvesting activities. Visiting a peal factory in the south will give you much more insight about this matter and also get you inside the world of jewelry designing, with pearls having the leading role. You may also stop at the magnificent Bai Sao beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystalline waters, or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Note about this tour:

If you wish to visit the Tranh Stream along your way, you may do so between the months of May and October.

North Island Kayaking and Village Tour (Rach Vem)

Like living an adventure? Kayaking on the Cua Can River is your thing. Let the flavours and sights of Phu Quoc be revealed to you on a full-day excursion around the north. You can start with an exploration of the local countryside and visit the black pepper plantations, where you can learn about harvesting pepper plants (notorious local produce), among others. If you have time and fancy a visit to a bee farm to sip drinks mixed with locally-produced honey, this is your moment too. Then, make a stop along the Cua Can river and get a kayak to try your paddling skills in this mighty river. The views that will surround you are just incredible. As you paddle north, you will come across a national park perfect for hiking via a century-old forest trail. The Rach Vem village is not far, and you can have that delicious meal you have been thinking of for a while. Or you may choose to swim with starfish and take a leisure stroll around the sandy beach first. Phu Quoc is full of hidden treasures and opportunities to live the kind of adventure you dream of, whether this includes escaping the beaten path and trekking through unspoiled forests, stepping foot in national parks of unsurpassable natural beauty, exploring a rich underwater ecosystem, or just relaxing under the warm sun with a cocktail at hand. Your options are limitless; as will your memories be when you leave Phu Quoc.

Find Out More

Phu Quoc island map

Boasting idyllic beaches, pristine waters, evergreen forests, romantic sunsets, and a peaceful ambiance, Phu Quoc is indeed an ideal holiday destination for those in search of a tranquil getaway from the hurried, modern lifestyle. Situated in the far south of the country, some 45 kilometres west of Ha Tien, Phu Quoc’s northern part holds a UNESCO World Heritage Site status, which allows it to be relatively untouched. However, you can also find a plethora of charming cafes, lively bars, and luxury resorts. Traditional fishing villages also dot the map, as are pristine beaches that offer visitors a unique opportunity to lay eyes on exquisite sea views. Between Buddhist pagodas, mighty temples, karst limestone formations inviting you to explore verdant mountaintops, and a dining scene that can cater to all budgets lies a wonderful world. Explore this paradisiac island with the following map tips. The Phu Quoc National Park More than half the island’s land is a park and contains impressive landscapes and various forest types, including rocky mountains, sparsely forested areas, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal vegetation. The rainforest occupies the majority of north Phu Quoc and is home to more than 200 animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, some rare species, such as the hornbill, silver langur, long-tailored macaque, and lorises, and species of globally endangered animals. The Ong Thay Mountain, Da Dan Stream, and Duong Dong Lake are all sights nearby worth visiting. Almost any drive to the north of the island will lead you through the National Park. Pepper Farms Phu Quoc is notorious for its fine-quality black peppers that are exported to the corners of the earth. Brought many centuries ago by the Chinese, peppers now contribute to the country’s output of up to 60% of the global pepper supply. You will find many pepper farms across the island, one being very close to the southern edge of the National Park, and you may have the chance to engage in a conversation with a local about how this succulent plant is grown and, why not, taste some right on the farm! Without a doubt, peppers have a leading role in Vietnamese cuisine, creating delicious dishes. Phu Quoc Safari Park Officially known as Vinpearl Safari Park, it is located on the north-west side of Phu Quoc and is the country’s first safari park built in 2015. The 380-hectare land hosts more than 2,000 animals, including rare species from all over the world, such as black/white ruffed lemurs and addax antelopes, as well as around 540 species of wildlife. The park is divided into several different areas, including the Night Safari, the Wild Africa, and the South America-Amazon. Nearby is also the Vinpearl Water park, with plenty of water slides, manmade beaches, arcade games, and many more for ideal family fun. Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Factories Besides scenic spots, Phu Quoc Island is also famous for its sea specialties, among which is the Phu Quoc fish sauce made from fermented, rich-in-protein anchovies. The island is home to more than 100 factories producing fish sauce, with the largest of the island’s fish-sauce maker being the distillery of Nuoc Mam Hung Thanh, just a short walk from the Duong Dong market. The second largest distilleries are found at An Thoi. At first glance, the giant crates give the impression that you have signed up for a wine tasting adventure but once you allow the festering nuoc mam essence kick in, you realise this is nowhere near a wine factory! What has made the local fish sauce so extraordinary is the nurturing waters around Phu Quoc, which retain a significant number of plankton and algae (anchovies’ best food). Also, the sea here contains several different categories of anchovy, which makes the sauce even tastier. The island produces hundreds and thousands of litres of fish sauce every year using only traditional methods as they have been passed from generation to generation. Let’s also note that the island’s Mam (sauce) quality is so high that the manufacturers here fought a persistent and lengthy legal battle to protect the name “Phu Quoc Fish Sauce”, which they eventually won. Coconut Prison & War Memorial Located in An Thoi village, Coconut Prison (Nha Lao Cay Dua), also known as Phu Quoc Prison, was initially used to keep prisoners during the Indochina War. At that time, it is believed to have held over 14,000 inmates. But, after the war, the Geneva Accords enabled them to return to their families. The prison was re-used when the Vietnam War broke loose and the US troops rebuilt it into a new jail. They designed separate areas for the elder, the men, and the women and also added a new section in 1966 to incarcerate the increasing number of Vietnamese soldiers that had to be held in captivity. So, from a total of 4 parts, according to original plans, Coconut Prison ended up having 12 main areas, each guarded with strong army force. During those dark times, the convicts suffered horrendous atrocities and tortures. The prison is now the living evidence of the most brutal face of war. In 1996, Coconut Prison was recognized as a National Historical Heritage and is one of the most-visited sights not only on the island but also entire Vietnam with more than 10,000 visitors annually. Visiting it gives the opportunity to see exhibits, such as torture tools and the Catso Tiger Cage that used to contain prisoners while leaving them exposed to the scorching sun and the elements, and life-size mannequins depicting torture scenes and providing information about the inhuman activities that were taking place back then. Just opposite Coconut Prison is a commemorative monument called the War Memorial, which consists of three abstract wave forms, including a human shape that has been cut out. The landmark is in memory of the Vietnamese patriots that have lost their lives defending the country during the numerous wars the nation has been involved with over the years. Bee Farms Bee farms in Phu Quoc are popular eco-tourism destinations that also serve as educational facilities for those that wish to learn more about life-cycle, honeybee conservation, and the significance of bees to the environment, among others. On the island, there are two honey bee farms that tourists can visit, and come with no entrance fee. The first bee farm is located north of the island’s International Airport, which also hosts a fruit farm with rambutan fruit trees and more, while the other is in the Cua Can region. To experience everything this attraction has to offer, you will need a bit less than an hour. Sim Wine Factory Sim Wine or Rose Myrtle Wine or Ruou Sim is a type of wine with a 7.5% alcohol content and a flowery scent and a woody taste that is made with a local fruit from the Rose Myrtle Tree that grows wildly on Phu Quoc Island. Its origins are believed to be tied with the central highland’s ethnic minority groups, and is a popular drink among locals, who always drink a glass of Sim Wine when they eat seafood. Many people drink it for its alleged healing properties as it appears to aid in the reduction of joint pains, the relief of digestive problems, and to combat fatigue. However, there is no medical evidence yet. The Nguyen Trung Truc Temple Nguyen Trung Truc Temple is found in the Kien Giang province and occupies a tranquil spot opposite the river. In the total of 9 temples on the island that worship Nguyen Trung Truc, a Vietnamese legend, it is the largest one, surrounded by green Bodhi trees and verdant land. The temple was inaugurated in 1970, seven years after it had been built, and has a sanctum featuring a stone incense burner and a 3-gate entrance as a means to retain the appearance of Tam shape. The roof is adorned with the motifs of two imposing dragons with pearl embellishments while you may also find cement-made relics with colourful pottery shards and artifacts, memorabilia, and trophies of the famed victories of Nguyen Trung Truc. Due to its impressive design, the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple is considered one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Phu Quoc, recognised as National Cultural Historical Relic in 1989. If you happen to be around during the festivities that often take place here, you will notice people from every religion and ethnicity having fun and integrating into a spiritual atmosphere. Dinh Cau Temple Also known as Dinh Cau Castle, Dinh Cau Shrine, Dinh Cao Rock and several more, Dinh Cao Temple is one of the most-visited sight-seeing attractions on Phu Quoc. Situated at the mouth of Duong Dong River, it actually is an odd-shaped rock formation that served as both a place of worship and a lighthouse. That particularity is what makes it so special. The temple was built in 1937 to honour the goddess of the sea, Mazu or Thien Hau. Ever since, fishermen and locals come to the temple to light incense sticks and pray for calm seas and safe journeys before they set out to the sea. Every year, around mid-October, there is a festival with hundreds of attendees, who climb the 29 winding stone steps to reach the shrine at the top of the temple while praying along the way. If you go with them and make it to the top, a beautiful terrace will reward you with heart-stopping panoramas of the sea, the port, and Duong Dong Town. Ho Quoc Pagoda Ho Quoc Pagoda is located on a high mountain in the southern area of Phu Quoc and was opened in 2012. It impresses with its ancient architecture characterised by wooden doors, high thresholds, and wall tile and houses several Buddha statues, a giant bell, and a magnificent statue of the Goodness of Mercy. It is an excellent spot to watch the sunrise, take in unspoiled scenery, and see macaques that live in the lush mountains behind it. Phu Quoc Nightlife From tourists and locals looking for a fun night out to expats, Phu Quoc’s vibrant night scene is more than interesting. Don’t expect the vibrancy of the big cities of mainland Vietnam, though. People who come here prefer more laid-back experiences after sunset. However, you will be pleased with the many beachfront bars, nightclubs, late-night restaurants, and wine lounges available on the island offering a relaxed ambience, stylish interiors, and a wide range of strong cocktails. Be prepared for facilities hosting guest DJs from Europe and Vietnam, full-moon parties, dance performances, bonfires, even a night market (Dinh Cau market in Duong Dong) and many more. Some of the most favoured spots include the stylish Itaca Resto Lounge offering affluent dining, the quintessential Rory’s Beach Bar, the Coco Bar with the delicious homemade rums, the Lion Garden Beer Club, the island’s largest nightclub, the Paradiso Beach Club with mind-blowing sea views, and the Le Bar, La Veranda luxury resort’s elegant lounge bar with sweeping ocean panoramas and a charming colonial-style décor. An Thoi Port An Thoi is the busiest port on Phu Quoc located on the southern tip of the island. From there, many tourists visit the complex of 15 islets and reefs nearby and enjoy activities such as swimming and snorkelling while indulging in magnificent views that stretch all the way to Coconut beach. An Thoi is a much-photographed Phu Quoc sight that many travellers prefer to visit at sunset for the idyllic vistas. The Beaches Phu Quoc is home to dozens of excellent beaches, each mesmerising with crystalline waters, sandy shores, spellbinding views, and an utterly enchanting underwater world to explore. Considering that the island is currently in a state of transformation, chances are you will find a wide range of luxury accommodation options near the beaches. Nevertheless, there is something for every desire. If you want untouched and quiet sandy spots, head to the northeast coast, where beaches like Thom Beach and Bon Beach lie. For more touristy and developed shores, visit the south-west and the likes of Long Beach. Other beaches worth a visit are Rach Tram Beach, Ganh Dau Beach, Rach Vem Beach, Cua Can, Vong Beach, Sao Beach, Khem Beach, and Ong Lang. Note: An equally scenic setting is provided at Hon Gam Ghi island in the Kien Giang province and the 17 small islands it consists of. Surrounded by coral, it is a superb place to swim, enjoy the sun, dive or snorkel. Accommodation in Phu Quoc From luxury hotels and elegant colonial-style resorts to homestays, bungalows, and hostels, Phu Quoc has it all. Regardless of your budget, chances are you will find accommodation here quite affordable, even if that means you spend your holidays at a deluxe hotel. Given that the island’s transformation started only a few years ago, around 2015, everything is new, modern and fresh, lacking nothing of the 5-star amenities offered globally. You can expect meals prepared by award-winning chefs, upscale al fresco dining experiences, and exquisite spa treatments, including luxurious oil massages and traditional Vietnamese cupping that rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, to name a few, which can be enjoyed at stylish resorts like La Veranda.

Cities to visit in Vietnam

Adventurous and developing, this narrow country between the Cambodia and Laos borders, definitely impresses myriad different ways. With profound natural beauty, characterized by forested mountains, pristine beaches, scenic valleys, lush rice terraces, charming karst formations on the north, and a fertile delta on the south, Vietnam has the power to inspire awe. Despite its struggles, being ruled for nearly a millennia by many different Chinese dynasties before it became a French Protectorate in the 1800s and prior to experiencing a brutal and fierce war, it now stands proudly and switches gears into becoming a rapidly developing nation. The places to visit in advancing Vietnam are, literally, endless. But, if one had to pick just a handful of them, these would be: Duong Dong Duong Dong is one of the most developed cities in Vietnam and the main town on Phu Quoc Island, also known as Pearl Island, ready to offer holidaymakers a VIP experience if only they ask for it. Often called “the heaven on earth” Phu Quoc is home to unimaginable beauty, characterised by sugary beaches, pristine shores, incredible views of the ocean, a rich marine life, crystalline waters, cloudless skies, and jungle-like forests; and Duong Dong is the embodiment of all this allure. Staying here comes with several benefits, as you have the opportunity to live life like a local and, at the same time, enjoy modern comforts. For that reason, you will find luxury resorts like La Veranda, whose high-end facilities, conveniences, spellbinding panoramas, and proximity to the main attractions, such as the Cau Temple, the Duong Dong night market, and award-winning restaurants, make it one of the most favourite beachside hotels among individuals, couples, and families that satisfy with nothing but absolute splendour. Dalat Dalat is a city that many French colonials and Vietnamese emperors used as a summer retreat. Can you blame them? Colourful flowers everywhere, verdant land, beautiful French colonial architecture, the scent of pine trees swirling in the air, and misty valleys treating the eyes of every weary traveler can make anybody fall in love with the place. Conveniently situated in the South Central Highlands of the country, it is a great escape for those in search of a refreshing area to chill out and cool off while pampering themselves with mind-blowing vistas. My Son If you love visiting sites of archaeological interest, then My Son will tick all of your boxes. Nicely tucked near Duy Phu village on the central coast of Vietnam, it is one of the most significant ancient sites that speaks of a glorious past. My Son was once a religious centre for Hindu ceremonies and attracted the attention of the king of the Champa Kingdom, who built temples here to honour Shiva, one of the three chief divinities of the Hindu Triad, between the 4th century and the 1300s. Ho Chi Minh City Nestled near the Mekong Delta along the Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City occupies a special place in southern Vietnam. Previously referred to as Saigon, it used to be the centre of administration during the Vietnam War. Over the years, it took its place as the largest city of the country, giving tourists and Vietnamese alike many reasons to step foot on its land as it combines the modern and the traditional lifestyle so harmoniously, offering from a vibrant night scene to historical attractions. Kon Tum The north of Vietnam is not as developed as the southern regions, but places like Kon Tum make it worth exploring. Situated along the Dakbla River up in the central highlands of the country, Kon Tum is a spirited town following a more laid-back way of living. This quiet and peaceful green dot on the map is not widely known among tourists, which enables those that wish to soak in the local culture to experience exactly that. Mekong Delta Nicknamed Vietnam’s Rice Basket, The Mekong Delta is a pole of attraction for its fertile land and the labyrinth-like streams and canals that feed it. This sheer agricultural region extends from Ho Chi Minh City and goes all the way to the Gulf of Thailand, providing food via its rich rice paddies, plantations, and fish farms to more than 30% of the country. Besides rice paddies and floating markets, the Mekong Delta is also home to bird sanctuaries, sugar cane groves, fruit orchards, and Instagram-perfect fishing villages. Nha Trang The main draw of this lovely seaside resort town is its beach which is surrounded by a heart-stopping promenade, palm trees, hot springs, and beautiful resorts. Found off the coast of South-Central Vietnam, it features one of the most mind-blowing bays in the country and diverse marine life, along with pictorial mountain ranges, sandy beaches, a mesmerising sea bed, water parks, healthy reefs, and gorgeous seascapes. The coastal town is full of Catholic churches, Champa Kingdom temples and architecture, and Vietnamese eateries. No wonder it is so favoured by tourists and scuba divers that flock from all over the country (if not the world) to explore its beauties. Sapa Between rice terraces and rolling hills lies Sapa, a picturesque town in the remote northwest of the country. This isolated, quiet place is surrounded by a wide range of mountain tribes that makes a perfect starting point for trekking enthusiasts, who hike up the imposing Hoang Lien Son Mountains or tour traditional villages and rice paddies that come in abundance around here. On their way, they go past majestic waterfalls while also being provided with the chance to learn the local way of life, taste traditional Vietnamese food, and familiarise themselves with local customs. Hue Central Vietnam hides a gem called Hue whose citadel is an attraction on its own as it comprises of magnificent gates, palaces of incredible grandeur, and temples so elaborate that they create an unpretentious feeling of astonishment. The town that once served as the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty and seat of Nguyen emperors sits on the banks of Perfume River, narrating its glorious past through every aspect of its being, from the cuisine and culture to architecture. Its official symbol is the Thien Mu Pagoda; another sight for sore eyes. Hoi An A few kilometres off the coast of the South China Sea, the old city of Hoi An is already living through its second millennia. Tracking it back to the Champa Kingdom, some 2,000 years ago, the south-central town is a popular destination among people looking for relaxed, unique experiences infused with a local flair. Tourists love strolling the atmospheric Old Town in the heart of the city with the maze-like streets. Adorned with beautiful architecture and offering the opportunity to taste traditional flavours and go shopping, Hoi An knows how to please the discerning tourist. Ha Noi One of its most prominent landmarks is the open-air museum of historic French colonial and Asian architecture, namely Old Quarter, which stood the test of time almost in its entirety despite the Vietnam Wars and the bombings that threatened its existence. Those that have been here admitted feeling enchanted by the overall paradisiac sensation, with the cosy cafes, charming markets, and striking tree-lined boulevards. Don’t leave without visiting the Saint Joseph Cathedral, Presidential Palace, and the Grand Opera House! Ha Long Bay With limestone rock formations emerging from the sea like mythical monsters, and waters so clear and cobalt that become one with the sky, Ha Long Bay seems like a place that has popped out of a fairy tale. As you look around, you will be able to see the overwhelming natural beauty of a landscape dotted with lakes, hundreds of lush forest-covered islands carved by the hand of Mother Nature, and fascinating caves. A fantastic speck of land indeed, some 130 kilometres east of Hanoi! Vung Tau If you are like the majority of people flocking this town, you will catch a hydrofoil boat from Ho Chi Minh City and head to Vung Tau for a short, relaxing break. You can spend carefree holidays while exploring the peninsula stretching around Vung Tau, enjoying your cocktail at a local bar, and pampering yourself with some Vietnamese delicacies while the little ones run around the shore having fun. This lovely town that once was colonised by the French is now a favourite weekend destination worth stopping by. Haiphong Unlike its neighbouring cities, Haiphong is an industrial town experiencing profound growth in the last few years. Nevertheless, it still amazes with its colonial architecture and unique features that make it stand out against other industrial cities of the north. Strolling its streets will enable you to view the fantastic flame flower trees along every road. Walk a bit more up the Halong Bay, and you will be rewarded with cinematic views, a sandy beach ready to offer you unique moments of composure, and streets lined with spectacular shrines, temples, and pagodas. Ha Giang Most people visiting Ha Giang feel as if they have made a trip back in time. Being one of the lesser touristy cities of the North, sitting comfortably in the banks of Lo River, Ha Giang has a mystical vibe. Be it the mysterious mountains encircling it, the sweeping valleys that many ethnic minorities call home, the winding hills all around, or the lively markets that are packed with sellers offering handmade goods, fresh food, and animals every Sunday, one thing is for sure. Ha Giang’s cultural heritage and allure are unsurpassable. Cao Bang Verdant hills occupied by different ethnic tribes, jetting waterfalls whose waters meet with the swirling Bang Giang River, and blooming valleys consist the backdrop of this beautiful part of Vietnam. Here, you will see women coming from small nearby villages to sell their fresh produce in the local markets of this pastoral paradise. Dong Hoi Somewhere between south and north Vietnam is Dong Hoi, a city that has suffered a great deal during the war with the USA. It was nearly destroyed and then rebuilt to become a prestigious destination along the coast that attracts hundreds and thousands of tourists that love it for its fine-sand beach, crystal clear waters, and enchanting underwater ecosystem. Over the years, it has seen its seashores occupied with more and more small hotels and restaurants offering delicious seafood. Those that visit Dong Hoi also adore it for the long list of adventurous endeavours they can try in the surrounding areas, exploring the mystical Phong Nha Cave networks being one of them. Can Tho Can Tho is famous for its floating markets, where one can find a plethora of merchants (even coming from the connecting Mekong Delta) trading goods, including food, on the convergence of the Hau and Can Tho rivers, which basically feed this city one way or another. Some locals like to call this town the rice bowl of Vietnam. Can you blame them? The fish, rice, and fresh veggies that comprise the raw materials of the town’s restaurants are all traded through the city. This means that if something is guaranteed around here is that you will treat your palate with mouth-watering tastes. As for the evenings, the idyllic sunsets and star-lit sky turn this place into a dreamland that hosts friendly locals and guests that enjoy relaxed vibes. Hue Another town that was once Vietnam’s imperial capital and home to the governing class. Unfortunately, most parts of its radiant Imperial Palace was completely damaged during the war with America. The remaining ruins are reminders of a once glorious city (though some sections of the palace are still intact) and attract the interest of history fans who make a stop here and explore the area, which also encloses tombs the emperors had self-built and some excellent dining facilities alongside the Perfume River. Wherever you look, you will find cities crammed full of colonial architecture, creativity, and culture with great appeal and magnetism. Depending on what you wish to experience coming in Vietnam, there will always be a town to meet your unique requirements, from bustling, motorbike-filled hubs to towns with historical heritage, sparkling beaches, exclusive resorts, winding waterways, lush greenery, or floating markets. And, as they continue to push into the future, they will surely have lots more to impress the world with.

Culture Tourism

Phu Quoc’s cultural sites revolve around the lives of its people who are mainly farmers and fishermen. One of Phu Quoc’s most famous products is its pepper. An estimated 715 families grow pepper on 300 hectares of land, producing an astounding 800 tons of pepper per year. Many of the farms are located 15 km north of Duong Dong and farmers usually allow visitors to stroll among the plants. There is a farm specifically set up for tourists near the Suoi Da Waterfall. Harvest time is between November and February. Another specialty of Phu Quoc is sim wine, a sweet beverage made from the fruit of the rose myrtle tree. The fruit is ground into a pulp, then sugar is added and the juice is fermented for 40-45 days. There are several sim wine factories around the island, including Simson in Duong To Commune near the Phu Quoc International Airport and Eden Resort, where you can see the sim plants and flowers (and perhaps even the berries which are typically harvested in the spring). Phu Quoc’s “nuoc mam” (fish sauce) is also famous throughout Vietnam. Visitors can tour some of the island’s many fish sauce distilleries, located mainly around Duong Dong or An Thoi, where giant wooden vats contain the amber liquid of anchovies, salt and water left to ferment for 6-12 months. It’s free to visit the distilleries, but there are no tours per se. Bring along someone who speaks Vietnamese if you’d like to find out more of the distilling process from the workers. Two of the more popular distillers are Hung Thanh and Khai Hoan, both near the market in Duong Dong. Vietnam’s homegrown religion of Cao Dai got its start in Phu Quoc in 1920 when the Supreme Being supposedly revealed himself to Ngo Van Chieu, the then governor of the island. Visit the very colorful Cao Dai temple at 40 Nguyen Trai and see elements taken from Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Confucianism. There are several fishing villages around the island which can be visited for a better understanding of how fishermen and their families live. These villages can easily be explored on motorbike. Come and watch as the small boats return to shore after an evening of fishing, or see families sorting through the day’s catch to prepare for market or to dry on racks. Some of the more scenic fishing villages include Ham Ninh on the island’s east coast and Ganh Dau to the north.