Phu Quoc Island, a pearl nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, beckons travellers with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. To elevate your Vietnamese vacation experience, consider indulging in the unparalleled luxury offered by Phu Quoc’s luxury resorts. These havens of tranquillity boast a curated selection of activities designed to pamper your senses and create wonderful, long-lasting memories…
Indulge in Luxurious Spa Treatments
Escape the everyday mundanity and embark on a journey of rejuvenation at the world-class spas housed within Phu Quoc’s luxury resorts. These sanctuaries of serenity offer a comprehensive menu of treatments, incorporating traditional Vietnamese techniques with modern innovations.Unwind with a soothing massage using locally sourced ingredients like lemongrass and coconut oil, or rejuvenate your skin with a revitalising facial.Many spas also feature hydrotherapy facilities like saunas and steam rooms, further enhancing your relaxation experience!Pro Tip: Consider booking a couples’ massage or a spa package for an extra touch of luxury and romance.
Thrilling Water Sports and Beach Activities
Phu Quoc’s pristine coastline provides the perfect playground for water-babies and outdoor enthusiasts. Luxury beachfront resorts in Phu Quoc often partner with local activity providers, offering guests a variety of options to explore the Insta-worthy turquoise waters.Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are fantastic ways to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches at your own pace.For an adrenaline rush, try jet skiing or parasailing, soaking up breath-taking views of the island from a unique perspective.Many resorts in Phu Quoc also boast private beachfront areas with sun loungers and water sports equipment available for rent, allowing you to unwind and soak up the sun in luxurious comfort.
Savour Gourmet Dining at La Veranda
Phu Quoc’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of Vietnamese flavours and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Luxury resorts in Phu Quoc like La Veranda take this culinary adventure to a whole new level. Expect to find a diverse range of dining options, from poolside bars serving refreshing cocktails and light bites, to fine-dining restaurants showcasing exquisite Vietnamese and international cuisine.Expert chefs utilise the freshest seasonal ingredients to create gourmet masterpieces, sure to tantalise even the most discerning palate. Many restaurants also offer stunning oceanfront views, providing a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Explore Cultural and Recreational Activities
Phu Quoc offers a surprising wealth of cultural and recreational activities beyond the resort. Many luxury resorts can arrange excursions to explore the island’s rich history and natural beauty.Delve into Vietnam’s fascinating past at the Dinh Cau Night Market, or visit the impressive Phu Quoc Prison, a haunting reminder of the island’s turbulent past.Nature lovers can embark on a thrilling hike through the Phu Quoc National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and awe-inspiring waterfalls.For a unique cultural experience, explore the vibrant local fishing villages and learn about traditional fishing techniques.
Enjoy Exclusive Amenities and Services
Phu Quoc accommodation goes beyond exceptional rooms and suites; these havens of hospitality provide a range of exclusive amenities and services designed to cater to your every whim.Imagine refreshing yourself in a sparkling infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or participating in complimentary yoga classes led by experienced instructors.Many resorts also offer children’s clubs, ensuring fun and engaging activities for younger guests while parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation!Personalised butler services can further elevate your experience, attending to your every need and ensuring a truly unforgettable stay.
Experience Unmatched Luxury at La Veranda
La Veranda luxury resort & spa, a premier resort in Phu Quoc, exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury hospitality.Imagine stepping into a haven of tranquillity, where every detail is meticulously designed to create a sense of pampered indulgence…From the exquisite beachfront bungalows, to the world-classluxury resort & spa: Tinh Wellness, La Veranda offers an unparalleled selection of activities and amenities.Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, embark on thrilling water adventures, or savour gourmet dining experiences showcasing the finest Vietnamese cuisine.Explore the island’s rich cultural heritage or simply relax on the pristine beachfront, soaking up the warm sunshine.Ready to create unforgettable memories in paradise? Visit La Veranda’s website today to explore our5-star Phu Quoc resort and book your dream getaway!Experience the unparalleled service, world-class amenities, and exceptional activities that await you at La Veranda.
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Where to stay in Vietnam
1. Where to stay in Vietnam?
The tourism industry has been rapidly developed, thus there is a wide range of options for any types of journey, from luxury to budget tours.
Luxury hotels and resorts
High-end hotels and resorts are available for travelers who want to get the best services and do not care much about the expense. 4 and 5-star hotels are plentiful in big cities and tourist attractions, while resorts are mostly located near the beaches or in the famous mountainous tourist destinations. Visitors will be served with extensive guest services and recreational facilities. Some groups and companies that are reputable for luxurious hotels and resorts are Vingroup (Vinpearl Resorts and Entertainment Centers), FLC (FLC resorts), Intercontinental Hotel Groups (Intercontinental, Crowne Plaza), Sheraton, and La Veranda Resort. Beside the international enterprises, Vingroup and FLC are two big Vietnamese corporations that have hotels and resorts in many parts of Vietnam.
Medium and small hotels, motels and hostels
This kind of accommodation ensures a good level of amenities for tourists at not a very high price. Thousands of hotels are built in almost every city and tourist spots in Vietnam. Hostel and motel are more suitable for backpackers and budget travelers. They offer inexpensive smaller rooms and communal facilities.
Homestay
Homestay is the popular way to stay in Vietnam, especially in mountainous areas like Sapa and Ha Giang. Travelers will use shared rooms with others. The facilities and services have nothing much to say, the experiences are great. Visitors can experience the daily life of the local people, as well as learn more about the culture. You can get unique experiences at a smaller expense. Homestay is suitable for travelers of all ages such as gap year students, backpackers, friends, couples, and even families.
2. Vietnam hotels and beach resorts
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. (talkofthetownatlanta.com)
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.
From iconic rice paddies and cascading mountains to historic towns, frantic cities, national parks, and tropical islands, Vietnam offers peace, vibrancy, and a winning blend of incredible experiences, charming people, heart-stopping scenery, exquisite cuisine, and remarkable hospitality. The cultural and geographical treasures of this captivating country intrigue, inviting travelers to an adventure of a lifetime. If you are planning a trip here or your next family vacation, this guide will give every detail you will ever need right on your plate.
When to Visit Vietnam?
Those that have been here finally come to terms with the fact that any time is a great time to visit Vietnam! However, it is best to bear in mind the climate variations between the north and the south, especially if you wish to travel the length of the country.
Generally speaking, anywhere between October and December is an excellent time to visit the north part of the island as the weather is perfect at that time of the year. If heading south, then prefer the months from November to March. Now, if you want to be part of any festivities that may take place around here, such as the Vietnamese New Year celebration (called TET), which is the biggest open-air party you will ever join, then do come January. In this case, though, book your flight tickets and accommodation in advance as hotels are booked quickly while restaurants, shops, and transport are usually closed for the holiday. Finally, to avoid too much rain and too much heat, better not travel to northern Vietnam from June to August it is scorching hot (around 40oC) with regular downpours on a daily basis. Also, stay away from the southern part of Vietnam between June and July as it is the season with the worst rains.
What is the Weather Like in Vietnam?
Vietnam is ruled by a tropical monsoon climate that diversifies every region on the island. For example, in southern Vietnam, the weather is hot year-round with rains coming between May and October while central Vietnam is hot and dry from January to August and rainy and warm between September and December. As for northern Vietnam, the weather is humid, hot, and rainy during May and October and dry and cold from November to April.
Visa Requirements
Depending on where you come from, you may or may not need a visa to enter Vietnam. You do NOT need a visa (and can apply for popular passport type with return tickets) if:
You live in a country member of the ASEAN, such as Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand (unless you visit Vietnam for more than 30 days or more than 21 if you are from the Philippines or 14 if you are from Myanmar or 15 if from Brunei).
You live in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain and are planning to stay in Vietnam for less than 15 days.
You are a passport holder from Russia, Japan, Korea, or the Scandinavian nations and you are going to stay in Vietnam for less than 15 days.
You are a citizen of France or Chile holding an official passport or valid diplomatic papers and will remain in the country for less than 90 days.
You are an APEC Business Travel Card holder from APEC member economies and will stay for less than 60 days.
Are Vietnamese or foreigner holding valid foreign passport and are entering the country via an international border to travel to Phu Quoc Island (as long as you don’t stay there for more than 15 days).
If you don’t belong in any of these categories, then you need to get a Vietnam entry visa before arriving here by visiting the Vietnamese Embassy in your country and providing information about your length of stay, among others. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa from https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/ or an invitation letter for a visa using a visa agency and receive your single-entry visa upon arrival after you show the letter, a passport photo, and your passport and pay the stamping fee at the airport.
Note: It is a good idea to ensure you get a passport with a 6-month validity (at least).
What Languages Are Spoken in Vietnam?
Although the official language is, of course, Vietnamese, you may also hear many people (mainly older ones) speak French too (Vietnam was a French colony for many years). English is also widely spoken throughout the country, primarily the more developed and touristy areas. Don’t be surprised if you come across students in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi eager to speak to you to practice their English! Now, if you wish to have a conversation with a local of a rural or remote area, chances are it will be challenging as very few speak English.
How to Get Around Vietnam?
There are various ways to get from one region to another:
Train – The Vietnam railway line will take you from one end of the country to another. You may use the train to go to and from Hanoi, Danang, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang. You may also travel north to Lao Cai for Sapa, or east from Hanoi to Haiphong for Halong Bay. If you want to move in luxury, use the Orient Express Trains that ride from Hanoi to Lao Cai. Generally, there are four classes in Vietnam Railways, soft sleepers, hard sleepers, soft seats, and hard seats. Most of the time, trains also have food service and air-condition, and you can book your tickets online, at the station or through your hotel.
Internal Flights – You will find several domestic flights going to and from Phu Quoc, Dalat, Hue, Nha Trang, Danang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi. The average flight time from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi is 2 hours (direct flight). Overall, the cost is meager, and the most popular airlines here are Vietnam Airlines, Air Asia, Vietjet, and Jet Star.
Boat – Taking the boat to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay will enable you to go past picturesque landscape as you go around the verdant Mekong Delta waterways. Or you can hop on a boat and go swimming or snorkeling at Phu Quoc, the Cham Islands, and Nha Trang, to name a few. Overnight cruises are also very common here.
Bus – The bus is the most cost-effective means of transport here. The bus network in Vietnam is quite extensive and you can purchase your tickets online, via your hotel or directly from the bus station. Pick any of the available ticket options, from fancy private tourist tickets to very cheap ones. If you are after extremely posh and comfortable bus rides, choose Mai Linh Express or The Sinh Tourist, as long as you are okay with the loud music and film playing on these buses. As for the most budget-friendly tickets, these belong to Open Tickets’ hop-on-hop-off buses. You can grab those from tour companies.
Motorbike – If you are an experienced driver, then do rent a bike. Otherwise, better avoid it as the traffic here can be overwhelming with very few bikers following traffic regulations. The roads are also challenging (most are narrow, dirt roads). To rent a motorcycle, you will need an International Driver’s Permit and insurance. Alternatively, you could co-ride with an experienced tour guide.
Are there any Health Concerns to Keep in Mind?
Before you travel to any foreign country, it is always advised to have a medical check-up and take out proper insurance. Provided that your routine boosters and vaccinations are all been taken care of on time, including measles-mumps-rubella and diphtheria-tetanus-polio, you will be fine.
As an extra precaution, make sure you have also had vaccinations for Typhoid, Tetanus, and Hepatitis A. In the recommended list, one will probably find vaccinations against Japanese Encephalitis, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and Rabies (if you are going to come into contact or work with animals).
Finally, except for some rural areas and southern regions, Malaria is not at all common in Vietnam. What is present in the country, though, is Zika Virus and Dengue Fever so do take precautions to avoid bites (i.e., cover up in the evenings or use repellent, preferably with DEET) and seek medical help if you notice any symptoms, such as aching muscles, nausea, headache, or fever.
Vietnam Cuisine
Besides heart-stopping vistas and mind-blowing natural beauty, Vietnam is also renowned for its delicious food (see legendary fish sauce and top-quality locally-produced peppers) that surprises pleasantly with its price. The local cuisine is characterised by fresh spring rolls from locally-grown vegetables, meaty soups seasoned like there is no tomorrow, a beef noodle soup the locals call Pho, banana-flower salads, and French-influenced baguettes. If you head to the north, do not leave without having tasted some Bun Cha or a Banh Mi pork sandwich. And, you happen to be somewhere on the coast, ordering some seafood is a prerequisite, whether you are at a sea-side restaurant or a street market.
Vietnam Nightlife
The most action takes place in the big cities and the beachside towns. Hanoi is very famous for its lager-like draught (a locally-brewed type of beer) among the locals while the bars and clubs in Ho Chi Minh City (the Pham Ngu Lao district) are open until deep in the night. If you fancy a more relaxed nightlife scene, Phu Quoc is ideal. Plenty of beachfront clubs, vibrant nightclubs, restaurants that stay open until very late at night, wine lounges, and cocktail bars with elegant interiors will tick your boxes for a fun and laid back time out. If you are lucky, you may bump to a full-moon party or join the thrill of a sports event that becomes everybody’s business here! Or you could go straight to Duong Dong and buy some souvenirs and/or sample authentic local dishes at the Dinh Cau Night Market.
Main Highlights in Vietnam
The bustling capital of the country is Hanoi and like every other town of Northern Vietnam, it mesmerises with its French colonial architecture. Escape to Hoan Kiem Lake and watch the sun vanish behind the horizon (or do morning Yoga) or stroll the intricate streets of the Old Quarter. Also:
Traveling east will introduce you to the unique karst limestone landscape followed by the enchanting waters of Halong Bay.
As you move further north towards the border with Laos and China, you have rolling hills, lush valleys, imposing waterfalls, and beautiful rice terraces waiting for you around the town of Sapa.
Travelers to the central coast can expect pristine beaches with crystal clear waters and the charming town of Hoi An with its tree-lined streets and the fine shopping scene.
Follow the Perfume River as you move closer to inland, and it will lead you to the Imperial City, the former imperial capital of Hue, and the impressive Thien Mu Pagoda.
The coastal city of Nha Trang awaits further south, ready to accommodate your needs for a relaxing time. Offering great scuba diving, gorgeous sandy beaches, and an underwater world so enchanting; it will be hard to part.
Saigon, the largest city of Southern Vietnam, will greet you with historical landmarks and not only.
Not long after driving south, your eyes will land on the scenic Mekong Delta that the locals also call the rice bowl of Vietnam! Unsurpassable beauty and allure as you watch the floating markets.
Only a short flight separates you from the unbelievably romantic and idyllic beaches and landscapes of Phu Quoc Island overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
Accommodation in Vietnam
Vietnam hosts a wide range of accommodation. You can find luxury hotels and chic resorts in the more central areas or on the coast offering accommodation at its finest. Others comprise an exceptional base from which to explore the most notable attractions and landmarks, including UNESCO World Heritage towns and sights. There are also options that provide further tranquillity along the coast or on the island of Phu Quoc, as well as lodgings cut to please those that wish for beachside retreats and bare-foot luxury, and stylish boutique hotels. Finally, some properties combine all that, such as La Veranda in Phu Quoc island that thrills with its colonial style and affluence. As for those into budget holidays, lodges and guesthouses are in abundance in Vietnam enabling them to explore the less-touristy regions and enjoy spellbinding views on the cheap.
Unique Must-Try Activities in Vietnam
When you are in Vietnam, you normally want to explore the gorgeous beaches and dive in the refreshing waters of the ocean. But, what if you wanted to get a different taste of what is available here? Here is a list of things that you could consider:
Journey like a local on the back of a Vespa.
Learn to fish like Vietnamese do.
Ride a buffalo cart through the central coast countryside.
Have morning Tai Chi.
Meet a Feng Shui master.
Trek from Sapa to Ta Giang Phinh.
Learn about the likes of Bahn tom and Cha Ca (deep-fried shrimp cakes and sautéed white fish respectively).
Attend a night market.
Drink tea at Hue city.
Dine in a romantic cave.
Go shopping at a floating market.
Join a local festival.
Vietnam is a blossoming flower, with many pedals that captivate and dazzle with their aromas and unique beauty. Grab this opportunity and see where this adventure will take you!
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 360o 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.
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Where to stay in Vietnam
Vacation, Trips and Holidays in Vietnam
Tours in Phu Quoc