Phu Quoc Island is a dream destination that enchants with its stunning white-sand beaches, beautiful shores, crystal waters, historical sites that stood the test of time, charming fishing villages, impressive Buddhist shrines, and a UNESCO-listed national park, among many others. In fact, Phu Quoc is the place that can please all tastes and requirements, whether you are into exploring, camping, bird watching, hiking, and living life as an endless adventure, VIP experiences that include staying at high-end resorts and eating at award-winning dining venues, or more laid-back, relaxed, and tranquil experiences away from the craziness of the modern, and often hurried, lifestyle. If you are planning a trip to this secret paradise island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, here are some attractions that definitely worth a place in your wish list. Bai Sao Beach Despite its small size, Phu Quoc has an incredibly large number of fantastic beaches; some catering to the needs of those looking for seclusion and some time away from the crowds and others in the pulsing heart of the island, offering modern conveniences and sharing a party feel. The biggest beach is the palm tree-lined Long Beach (aka Bai Truong) on the south-eastern side (stretching over 20km), which is where you will find the majority of beachfront restaurants, swanky resorts, bars, and cafes with mind-blowing sunset views. However, the east coast has a gem called Bai Sao, which is possibly the most heavenly beach human eyes have ever seen, providing cinematic landscapes. With sugary white sand, crystalline turquoise waters, and an Instagram-perfect tropical scenery, it certainly deserves a visit. And, while there, why not take a snorkelling trip to the neighbouring beaches and islands of Phu Quoc? Rumours say that Fingernail Island on the south of Phu Quoc in the An Thoi Archipelago is a wonderful speck in the sea that looks as if it has jumped out of a fairy tale. Other shores worth checking out are Vung Bau, Bai Dai, Bai Thom, Ong Lang, and Ganh Dau beaches. See which one steals your heart! Cao Dai Temple Cao Dai temple stands out from the other Phu Quoc temples not only due to its bright technicolour exterior but also for the fact that it is home to a wide array of religious symbols and relics, ranging from Islamic crescent moons and Christian crosses to Buddhist statues and swastikas, alongside several patron saints and figures of prominent people from around the world, including French poet Victor Hugo and Chinese president Sun Yat-Sen. If you want to attend a worshipping ceremony, you can visit the shrine between 6am and 12pm from Monday to Friday. The temple is open every day while a dress code should be followed when visiting any shrine in Vietnam (no bare shoulders or wearing shorts when inside the temples or other religious sites). About Cao Daism: It is a monotheistic religion founded in the early 1900s that combines Buddhism, Judaism, Taoism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Islam, Zoroastrianism, and Christianity. The central idea is that people may choose to follow whichever religion they feel best pleases their soul, but everybody shares one true God. The religion is practiced by more than two million people, which is why you will see many Cao Daism shrines located across Phu Quoc, with the most popular one being found along Nguyen Trai Street – a fine sample of the architectural style used to build the glorious Cao Dai temple in Ho Chi Minh city. Cau Temple Also referred to as Dinh Cau Rock, Cau Temple was built in 1937 to honour the goddess of the sea (Thien Hau), who was believed to protect the fishermen when they were out in the open sea. Even today, you will notice locals praying to her before setting out for the catch of the day (or the week). The temple itself is also interesting, as it is the outcome of a strange-looking natural formation in the island, featuring a Buddhist shrine and a quaint lighthouse in attractive, bright colours. If you are willing to climb the winding stone steps to the rooftop terrace, you will be rewarded with heart-pleasing panoramas and seascapes. The temple is open every day from 7am to 6pm (no entrance fee). Note: Although generally quiet, the temple becomes a bit crowded during the Dinh Cau Festival that takes place on October 15 and ends the next day, and the New Year (Tet festivities), when locals burn joss sticks at the goddess’ altar and pray. Duong Dong Market If you are close to Cau Temple, then you can treat your palate with delicious seafood at the Dinh Cau Night Market (open from 5pm to 10pm), which is less than a kilometre away. The Vo Thi Sau roadas is closed for traffic in the evenings, allowing visitors and locals alike to stroll around it, dine, shop, see fishermen drop off freshly-caught shellfish, barracuda, mackerel, and many more fish species at Duong Dong Port, and taste the fish sauce Phu Quoc Island is so famous for. However, the largest and busiest outdoor market with a strong local flavour and a plethora of fresh produce is the Duong Dong Market. Being a spectacle in itself, the market is divided into two sections, one hosting the food stalls serving Vietnamese dishes and fruit juices and another with the souvenirs and clothes shops. You may grab some seafood, add veggies or rice and savour a mouth-watering dining experience while watching people go by. Some must-try dishes include raw herring salad and the sticky rice cake the Vietnamese call Banh Tet! Ham Ninh Fishing Village A picturesque, quiet village tucked on the east coast of Phu Quoc (about a 30-minute drive from Duong Dong Town) with friendly locals selling pearls that they themselves have collected from the island’s waters and offering traditional Vietnamese tastes, including sea cucumber soup, boiled flower crab, and tram mushroom at affordable prices. Not far from this quaint little village is the Bai Vong Port, one of the largest ports for cargo ships coming from mainland Vietnam on the island, which offers idyllic sunset views and breath-taking vistas of the Ham Ninh Mountain range and the fetching coastline with the shallow waters and expansive beaches. Note: If you wish to spend some time by the beach, it is recommended to walk a bit further from the Ham Ninh coastline because, at times, the shores there get polluted with rubbish from the Ham Ninh village. Phu Quoc National Park Occupying more than 50% of the island’s northern region (over 314,000sq.m), the Phu Quoc National Park is a primary pole of attraction for tourists seeking an adventure that excites with its supercharged splendour. Although most of the park is not open to the public (protected for research purposes), the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (declared in 2010) offers a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, camping, and bird-watching, unique fauna and flora (i.e., long-tailed macaques), and evergreen forests, if you just head to the Khu Rung Nguyen Sinh Forest Reserve or Mount Heaven; both located in the National Park. Note: Getting there could be challenging due to the bumpy roads leading to Ganh Dau Village (close to the National Park). For that reason, it is suggested to avoid renting a motorcycle unless you are comfortable riding dirt roads. The best option to reach the reserve is by booking a day tour. Sung Hung Pagoda Scattered across the island, pagodas offer valuable insights into Buddhism. Surrounded by tall trees and sitting amidst a serene location along Tran Hung Dao Street (Duong Dong Town), Sung Hung Pagoda is one of the most arresting ones in Phu Quoc. Built in the early 10th century, it comprises of two shrines. Formerly known as Hung Nhan and Sung Nghia Pagodas, Sung Hung got its new name in the early 1900s and is a place of worship for devotees that want to pray for the departed ones. The moment you step foot in it, you are instantly overwhelmed by a welcoming, peaceful sensation. As you explore the place in awe, you go passed Bodhi trees, numerous sculptures, a sanctum house, a lotus pond featuring a statue of the Goddess of Mercy, and red boards with inscribed writing, before you enter the majestic main prayer hall that houses several Buddha statues, alongside intricate paintings of Buddhist legends and mythical creatures. The pagoda is open to the public (no entrance fees) daily and maintains most of its original architecture despite the major restorations it has undergone over the years. Note: Another equally noteworthy pagoda is that of Su Muon (aka Chua Su Moun and Long Tu Pagoda), one of the oldest Buddhist shrines on Phu Quoc sitting on the eastern side of Duong Dong Town (4km). It was built in 1932 by a local monk and houses golden statues of Buddha, colourful relics, and painted rock formations. The surrounding scenery is home to a 300-year-old Kenia tree and lush greenery. Do reach the balcony area to take in the spellbinding views of Hamn Ninh Mountain and Phu Quoc shores. Phu Quoc Prison Museum (aka Coconut Tree Prison) Vietnam suffered many blows throughout its history. During the Vietnam War, thousands of people were imprisoned and tormented, and this prison now turned into a war museum and national historical site is the reminder of those dark times distinguished by disgusting acts of violence. Built by French colonists in 1949, Coconut Tree Prison is believed to have been the captivity and torture place of more than 400,000 Vietnamese soldiers, as well as everybody going against the American and French forces. It was not until the end of the Indochina War when the prisoners were released, facing serious mental and physical problems due to the ruthless and brutal tortures they had endured while they were incarcerated, including electrocution, food deprivation, and detention in the tiger cages (seclusion in total darkness and subjected to the elements for a long period of time). Visiting the museum will give you the chance to view photographs of former prisoners, authentic torture instruments, life-sized wax mannequins illustrating graphic torture scenes, and the row of tiger cages, among others. This iconic landmark is a 45-minute drive from Duong Dong (near An Thoi village in the south of the island) and is open to the public (entrance fee required – VND 3,000) from 7:30 am to 11am and from 1:30pm to 5:00 pm. In the roundabouts, you can also find a retail outlet selling books about the Vietnamese War, local snacks, and more. Suoi Thanh Waterfall Phu Quoc has two large waterfalls, and Suoi Thanh is one of them (4 metres tall). Whether you visit it during the off-season or between May and September (rainy season), when it has the most water, it will undoubtedly please your soul. Besides the natural beauty all around the waterfall (surrounded by natural caves and dense greenery), there are also several natural pools whose waters the locals find refreshing and a few smaller waterfalls that also provide nice opportunities for short getaways (even a great spot for recreational activities, such as picnics and camping trips). Now, if you feel adventurous, you could consider hiking further up from the waterfall and head to Hang Doi (200 metres high). Simply follow the 15-kilometre stream and pamper yourself with not only superb panoramas once you get to the top but also a unique set of stalactites housed there! Getting to the Suoi Thanh waterfall is a short drive from Duong Dong to Ham Ninh (around 7km) while the entrance fee is set at VND 5,000/person. Once you pay the fee, a well wooden path leads you through the jungle straight to the waterfall within 10-15 minutes. Note: The attraction is quite busy at the weekends so if you want a less crowded experience, do visit it on a weekday. If you go by car, you can leave it in the designated parking area in front of the waterfall, which comes with a VND 10,000 parking fee. Vinpearl Land Amusement Park A water park and primary entertainment hub for those visiting or living in Phu Quoc island offering great family fun. Vinpearl features a dazzling aquarium, arcade centres (both indoor and outdoor) with over 120 arcades, a shopping street, amazing displays of water acrobatics, music, and light, and, of course, a massive section that combines amusement rides, kids’ zones, a manmade beach, a family area, mermaid shows, and traditional dances, to name just a few. Those with a daring heart can try the Spiral, Giant Boomerang, or Tornado water slides and free-fall from more than 120 metres! And, if you get hungry, you will find foods from the likes of Asian and European cuisine, including traditional Vietnamese dishes, as well as fast food kiosks scattered all over the place. The park is open from 9am to 9:30pm and tickets cost VND 500,000 for adults and VND 400,000 for seniors over 60 years of age and children below 1.4 metres (and above 1metre) in height. More Local Attractions Worth Seeing: Ganh Dau Cape – Situated at the north-western tip of the island, the rocky formation gives way to stupendous vistas of the ocean and Cambodia if you climb a bit higher. Nguyen Trung Truc – A beautiful temple located in the Ganh Dau village that was constructed to honour the heroes that served their nation and country. Hot Mot Island – Occupying a small portion of the northwest of Phu Quoc, it is an excellent place for snorkelling (the sea there is full of corals and fish). A small bridge connects it with the island and is found near Bai Thom village. Pepper farms – Equally famous with the Phu Quoc fish sauce is the pepper here, which is absolutely top quality. The majority of black, white and exotic pepper farms on the island are along the road leading to the north. How about having a guided tour of one to familiarise yourself with the entire process in detail? Coi Nguon Museum – You will come across the 4-storey museum near Long Beach. It features a lovely rooftop offering sweeping views of Duong Dong and the coastline, as well as artefacts, paintings, and other works of art from as far as the 1400s that show the history of the island. It also has a resort, gift shop, and restaurant. Cable Car – It is not an attraction per se but does enable you to have a bird’s eye view of the regions between An Thoi Town and Hom Thom Island. Phu Quoc is a hidden underpopulated bliss island ready to reveal its allure and appeal to those in search of unique travel experiences infused with a local flair. With everything from evergreen forests, crisp clean ocean air, floating restaurants, idyllic beaches, romantic sunsets, and a UNESCO-listed national park to funky bars, luxurious resorts, expansive natural parks, traditional villages, Buddhist pagodas, and a vibrant dining scene becoming readily available as soon as you arrive, you will be definitely spoilt for choice.

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.

Enjoy the green season! While the dry season of December to April offers the most ideal weather and sunny skies, many savvy travelers take advantage of the “green season”, dodging the brief showers and occasional storms with indoor activities like cooking classes and a soothing massage in exchange for steeply discounted accommodations. The rainy season also brings out the best in many of the island’s natural spots, including the Tranh Stream (“Suối Tranh”, pronounced “soo-ey tranh”) with rapids and several waterfalls where visitors can swim which makes for a great Phu Quoc day trip. Explore the island DIY If organized tours aren’t your thing, there are many places to visit on Phu Quoc which can be done on your own. Adventurous travelers can rent a scooter and explore the many beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc. Be aware that while scooter rentals are cheap at roughly USD 8 per day, technically you do need an International Driving Permit and if you get stopped by the police, expect to pay a hefty fine. On the plus side, most of the main roads around Phu Quoc are paved and without too much traffic, making driving quite easy for even the novice. Note that roads towards the north of the island and through the national park are mostly unpaved dirt roads which require some skill to navigate the sandy areas. Otherwise, taxis can be hired for half-day or full-day Phu Quoc island tours, usually either to the south or the north of the island. Negotiate with your driver exactly where you want to visit and the price beforehand. Otherwise, many of the organized Phu Quoc island tours are based on volume, which means if you don’t mind being on a boat with 30-40 other people, the costs are quite reasonable at around USD 20 for a full-day boat trip with lunch and snorkeling. Alternatively, many of the high-end resorts can put together an unforgettable Robinson Crusoe-like day with a picnic lunch on a deserted island beach all to yourself. Boats can also be hired out to visit the islands that make up the An Thoi archipelago in the south or the more sheltered islands in the northwest known for their shallow water and good macrodiving. Some islands that offer postcard-pretty beaches with few visitors include Fingernail Island, Coconut Island with its fish farms and the uninhabited Shadow Island in the south. Night market The night market in Duong Dong is mainly for tourists, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Cheap souvenir stands vie for space with pop-up restaurants where fresh seafood can be cooked any way you like. Shopping While all the usual beach souvenirs can be easily found around the island, why not take something home that’s truly representative of Phu Quoc? Cooks back home will enjoy a package of famous Phu Quoc black pepper or a bottle of sweet sim wine. Authentic Phu Quoc pearls in a dazzling array of colors and quality are sold directly from the pearl farms along Long Beach and make for a stylish gift. Skip the Phu Quoc fish sauce though, as many airlines don’t allow them on the planes, in case of breakage. If you’ve ever smelled fish sauce up close, you’ll know exactly why!