How Celebrity Chefs Shape the Fine Dining Scene in Phú Quốc

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.

Area: 70.99 sq. km Population: 1,090,000 (2011) Administrative Division: – Wards: Phu Nhuan, An Cuu, Truong An, Phuoc Vinh, Vinh Ninh, Phu Hoi, Xuan Phu, Vy Da, Tay Loc, Thuan Loc, Thuan Thanh, Thuan Hoa, Kim Long, Phu Hoa, Phu Cat, Phu Hiep, Phu Hau, Phu Binh, Phu Thuan, Phuong Duc, Huong So, An Hoa, An Dong, An Tay, Huong Long, Thuy Xuan, Thuy Bieu. – Ethnic groups: Viet (Kinh) The city of Hue covers an area of 70.99 sq. km with the population of nearly 1,010,000 people (2011). There are totally 27 wards in the city: Phu Nhuan, An Cuu, Truong An, Phuoc Vinh, Vinh Ninh, Phu Hoi, Xuan Phu, Vy Da, Tay Loc, Thuan Loc, Thuan Thanh, Thuan Hoa, Kim Long, Phu Hoa, Phu Cat, Phu Hiep, Phu Hau, Phu Binh, Phu Thuan, Phuong Duc, Huong So, An Hoa, An Dong, An Tay, Huong Long, Thuy Xuan, and Thuy Bieu. Most of the citizens are the Kinh people. Hue used to be the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, from 1802 to 1945. The vestiges of the past still remains today. Coming to the city alongside the Perfume River, visitors will be amazed by the spectacular beauty and high cultural value of the monuments, tombs, and pagodas. Thanks to the significant value, the complex monuments of the Imperial Citadel of Hue and the Imperial Court Music have been designated as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The city then gains its reputation as a cultural and religious center of Vietnam in particular and Southeast Asian in general. HIGHLIGHTS OF HUE The Imperial Citadel of Hue It is a complex monument which was built during the 19th century. The Citadel of Hue is actually a walled fortress and palace with impressive architecture. The construction of that massive monument involved in more than a thousand of workers and huge volume of burden workload. With the well-preserved architecture, that site was made a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in 2003 and have attracted a large amount of tourists since then. The Imperial City of Hue contains of two main parts: the Citadel and the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is where emperors and the loyal family lived and worked whereas the Citadel is to protect it. Address: Thuan Hanh Ward Opening hour: Everyday, 7:30 a.m – 5:30 p.m Entrance fee: VND 150,000/person Emperor tombs Another worth-visiting place is the complex of Emperor Tombs, including Gia Long Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Tu Duc Tomb. Each tomb represents different viewpoints of the Nguyen Emperors. Visiting the tombs, history lovers will have a chance to explore the life and viewpoints of the Emperors. These relics are also parts of the Citadel – a World Cultural Heritage. Opening hour: Everyday, 7:30 a.m – 5:30 p.m Entrance fee: VND 55,000/person Thien Mu Pagoda As a religious center of Central Vietnam, Hue has a lot of temples and pagodas. The most famous among them is Thien Mu Pagoda on the Northern bank of Perfume River. Its alluring beauty is a huge attraction to visitors. Located in the foot of Ha Khe Hill, Thien Mu Pagoda (Linh Mu Pagoda) is just about 5km from the city center of Hue. Built in the 17th century, it is considered the oldest pagoda in Thua Thien Hue province. Though having been restored many times, the pagoda still remains its ancient look. There are some notable architectural works such as Phuoc Duyen Tower, Dai Hung Shrine and Dia Tang Shrine. Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, tourists will immerse their souls in pagoda sightseeing and go into the pure and majestic space, which cannot be seen in bustling cities. Address: Kim Long Road, Huong Long Ward, Perfume River Opening hour: Everyday, 7.30 am – 5.30 pm Entrance fee: Free Tha Om Garden House On the way to Thien Mu pagoda, Tha Om Garden House is a worth-visiting destination where visitors can not only hear the stories about the history of Vietnam but also try the finest Hue dishes. It is a sophisticated garden with lotus ponds and pavilions, creating an unforgettable memory for travelers of the traditional Hue residence harmonizing with an extraordinarily delicious Vietnamese dinner. Address: 12/12 Nguyen Phuc Nguyen Street Entrance fee: From VND 100.000 – VND 300.000 Opening hour: everyday, 8.00 am – 10.00 pm Thanh Toan Village Located in Thuy Thanh Commune, Thanh Toan Village is among the most beautiful villages in Hue. Visitors love to ride bicycle around the village to watch the tranquil scenery of a Vietnamese village as well as visit some interesting destinations. Thanh Toan tile-roofed bridge, the communal houses, and clan worshipping houses are great to pay a visit. Also, traditional festivals are perfect to join in. Address: Thuy Thanh Commune, Huong Thuy Ward Opening hour: Everyday Entrance fee: Free Lang Co Beach After discovering the history and culture of Hue, here comes the time for relaxing. Lang Co Beach is regarded one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With more than 10 kilometers of coastline, Lang Co has soft white sand-bank and turquoise sea water, which is a huge appeal to travelers. It is wonderful to dive into the cool water there. The beach is even more attractive when it is located closely to some sightseeing spots and cultural sites, namely Bach Ma National Park, Hue Citadel and Da Nang City. It is a perfect stop during your travel. Address: Thuy Thanh Commune, Huong Thuy Ward Opening Hour: Everyday Entrance Fee: Free

The main local vehicle for transportation is motorbike which can be easily rented from motorbike rental shops scattering along the main road in Duong Dong town. The cost of renting a bike for one day is from 130,000 – 150,000VND and paperwork may not be required. This is an ideal solution for groups of young people to get around the island. Even at night, main roads in Phu Quoc are quite safe for female groups. It is also convenient for families with kids and/or aged people to catch a taxi on the way to the beaches with the fare of 10,000VND (about 55 cents) per kilometer. Taxis can also be hired for half-day or full-day Phu Quoc island tours. Negotiate with your driver exact places you want to visit and the price beforehand.