French cuisine has long been revered for its elegance, sophistication, and dedication to culinary excellence. From rich sauces to delicate pastries, French dining experiences are often associated with artistry and indulgence.But what happens when this celebrated culinary tradition meets the vibrant flavours of Vietnam? AtLa Veranda Resort Phú Quốc, the answer awaits you at The Peppertree restaurant…
Why You Should Visit The Peppertree for French Cuisine in Phú Quốc
The Peppertree, an authentic French restaurant in Vietnam, offers a unique dining experience, blending classic French techniques with the fresh, local ingredients of Vietnam. This fusion creates a symphony of flavours that is both familiar and exciting, offering a truly memorable culinary journey.Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of French cuisine, or you’re simply looking to explore new tastes, The Peppertree promises an unforgettable dining experience.The relationship between French and Vietnamese cuisine is a fascinating one, born from a period of French colonial influence. This historical connection has resulted in a delicious culinary fusion, where French techniques and Vietnamese ingredients intertwine to create dishes that are both sophisticated and comforting.At The Peppertree, this culinary heritage is celebrated and elevated, offering guests a taste of this masterful fusion…
Elegant Dining Ambiance: The Perfect Setting for Memorable Meals
The Peppertree provides an elegant and refined atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a memorable meal.The restaurant’s design is inspired by a traditional Vietnamese stilt house, offering stunning ocean views and a sense of tranquillity.The combination of exquisite food, impeccable service, and breath-taking scenery makes The Peppertree the finest destination for French dining in Vietnam.Imagine savouring delectable French cuisine in Phú Quốc while overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The gentle sea breeze, the sound of the waves, and the vibrant colours of the sunset create an ambience that is both relaxing and enchanting. This is the magic of The Peppertree, where every detail is designed to enhance your dining experience…
A Taste of French and Vietnamese-Inspired Dishes
The Peppertree’s menu is a testament to the culinary creativity of its chefs. A wide selection of classic French dishes have been given a unique Vietnamese twist. From fresh seafood platters, to succulent meat dishes, every item on the menu at our French restaurant in Phú Quốc is crafted with precision and passion.For a taste of the sea, try the Ca Hong Nuong (Whole Red Snapper grilled in Banana Leaf Papillote with Lemongrass) or the Tom Xao Sot Me (Pan Fried King Prawns tossed in a Tamarind & Phú Quốc Honey Sauce).If you prefer meat, the Bo Luc Lac (Australian Wagyu Rump stir-fried with Tomato, Cucumber, Bell Pepper and Onion) or the Cha Gio Chien (Deep Fried Pork, Jicama and Mushroom Rice Paper Rolls, Herb Salad, Sweet and Sour Fish Sauce) are excellent choices.As for dessert, the Riz Au Coco (Rich Coconut Rice Pudding, Fresh Mango, Coconut Meringue, Mango Sorbet) or Bombe Nougat Glace (Frozen Nougat Mousse with Candied & Semi-Dry Tropical Fruit, Cashew & Almond Nougatine, Meringue, Dark Rum) both offer a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Breakfast and Dinner: What to Expect at The Peppertree
The Peppertree is open for both breakfast and dinner, offering a diverse culinary experience throughout the day.
Breakfast (6:30am – 10:30am weekdays, 6:30am – 11:00am weekends): Start your day with a delicious breakfast spread featuring both continental and Vietnamese options. Enjoy freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and made-to-order egg dishes while taking in the morning ocean views.
Dinner (6:00pm – 10:00pm): In the evening, The Peppertree transforms into an elegant dining destination.The menu showcases the best of French and Vietnamese-inspired cuisine, offering a culinary journey that will tantalise your taste buds.
An Award-Winning Culinary Team
The Peppertree is proud to have a talented team of chefs, led by ourcelebrity master chef. With years of experience in top kitchens around the world, our chefs bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every dish. Their passion for culinary excellence is evident in the exquisite flavours and presentation of the food.You can learn more aboutour culinary team and their dedication to crafting exceptional French cuisine in Phú Quốc on our website.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips for Dining at The Peppertree
To ensure you have the best possible experience at The Peppertree, we recommend making a reservation in advance, especially during peak season. This will guarantee you a table and allow you to fully enjoy your dining experience without any worries.When planning your visit, consider the time of day. For the best views, dinnertime offers a spectacular sunset backdrop. However, breakfast at The Peppertree is also a delightful experience, offering a tranquil start to your day.No matter when you choose to visit, The Peppertree promises an unforgettable culinary journey. With its exquisite French cuisine, elegant ambience, and stunning ocean views, it’s a must-visitFrench restaurant in Phú Quốc.Book your table today and experience the magic of The Peppertree for yourself!
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Transportation
I. HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND VIETNAM?
Travelling inside Vietnam is quite easy. In most of the cities, there are local bus systems with one-way ticket of 7,000VND (about 0.3USD) for one person. Maps with bus routes can be easily found in every bookstore. The bus will follow a fixed route, thus it is necessary to check whether the bus is heading to your target destinations.
Another popular means of transport is the “xe om”, which is simply the motorbike taxi. There are several “xe om” drivers who are sitting on their scooters and wearing helmets. Recently, two big “xe om” systems have been launched by Grab, which offer cheaper prices and better safety. If going with traditional “xe om” drivers, it is better to negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid being overcharged. On the contrary, if travelers use Grab services, they might get a great deal without having to bargain.
Taxis are also plentiful in the cities. For the sake of safety, go with reputable taxi companies such as Mai Linh, Vinasun. Grab and Uber provide taxi services, too. Be careful when going with independent taxis because they often overcharge travelers, especially foreign tourists.
Regarding traveling to other regions within Vietnam, three main options are available: flight, bus, and train.
Vietnam has four domestic airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VASCO (a spin-off of Vietnam Airlines), VietJet Air, and Jetstar Pacific. Vietnam Airlines and VASCO are the most reputable agencies which are renowned for their service and timeliness. The other two are budget airlines offering cheaper tickets. However, their additional services and flight delays have been falling into disrepute.
Another low-budget way to travel around Vietnam is by long-range buses. Sleeper buses are preferable for long journeys (4 hours and more), even though the seats are quite small for foreigners. It might be hard for taller passengers to stretch out completely. Buses are normally affordable, but some people recommend that travelers should not go at night due to road safety issues.
The last option is going by train. Going by train takes the same amount of time as by buses. Trains provide more space and facilities than buses, and more importantly, it is safer to go by train. In addition to the ordinary tickets, some agencies provide privately-run sleeper-car attached to the train. There are luxury services, but it might cost a considerably high expense. Train tickets are sold at the railway stations, via travel agencies, or via your hotels. Visitors can also book the tickets online.
Many adventurous travelers love to rent motorbikes for their trekking trips. They can freely go wherever and whenever they want. Some even choose to buy motorbikes and pass it on at the end of their journeys. Remember that a Vietnamese driving license is required if you want to ride a motorbike in this country.
II. WHERE TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM?
Vietnam is a beautiful country which offers several interesting destinations for different groups of travelers. Followings are some most recommended tourist attractions in this S-shaped country.
Halong Bay
Recognized one of new Seven Wonders of the World, Halong Bay has proved itself as a wonderful destination for Vietnam tours.
Halong Bay consists of thousands of majestic limestone islands and islets that are covered by turquoise sea water. Taking a Ha Long Bay trip, visitors will spend their time discovering the sheer beauty of narrow lagoon and grottoes while gliding on the blue ocean.
You can go aboard on tourist boats to travel around the Bay. Not only can you watch the spectacular limestone and caves, you can also visit some floating villages such as Cua Van, Vung Vieng, and Cong Dam to see the life of people there. For more luxury trips, there are high-end cruises available for overnight tours on the Bay. You may catch the glorious sunset on the sea or watch the sparkling night sky while getting served with best services. Also, it is interesting to go kayaking around the Bay. With its significant geological value, Halong Bay has been listed as UNESCO World Natural Heritage for two times.
Hanoi
Of course, Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam cannot be missed in any Northern Vietnam destination lists. The beautiful and peaceful city with a thousand years of history possesses alluring beauty which has been highly appreciated by both local and foreign tourists.
The thousand-year capital of Vietnam still well preserve some tangible and intangible value of a nation with long-lasting history. Here exists the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – the social and political center of Vietnam under Ly, Le, and Tran Dynasties. It was also where French Government worked during their conquest of Vietnam. Hence, travelers can see the cluster of Eastern and Western Cultures, especially through architecture here. Next to the citadel stands the mausoleum of Uncle Ho – the great leader of the country during Vietnam War, who has also inspired millions of people all over the world. Some famous relics like Hanoi Flag Tower, North Gate and D67 Tunnel and House are also situated in this area.
There are many other worth-visiting places to explore in Hanoi such as Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, West Lake, and Duong Lam ancient village, where you can approach Hanoi’s culture and daily lives. Especially, the specialties in Hanoi Old Quarter will definitely amaze you.
Sapa
Located in the mountainous Northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is perhaps the most haunted destination for adventurous trips in northern Vietnam. The exquisite scene of the natural settings with dense jungle and the colorful rice terraces is an undeniable allure to travelers. Sapa is also home to many ethnic minority groups such as H’Mong, Tay, Dao, and Thai. Coming to Sapa, travelers can discover the incredibly beautiful landscapes as well as the culture of the tribal people. Visitors can try on the colorful traditional clothes, do farming in terraced rice fields, or participate in Bac Ha traditional market. Additionally, they can pay a visit to Fansipan Peak – the summit of Indochina at the height of 3143 meters, coming across jungles and climb up the mountain to get a unique wilderness experience while taking a bird’s eye view of the whole area.
Not only does Sapa displays Vietnamese’s culture, the small town also shows the influences of the West. Travelling around Sapa town, visitors can easily find French-style villas and homes, as well as some modern public buildings.
Ha Giang
With rugged mountains, spectacular terrace fields, deep valleys, and dense forests, Ha Giang is an ideal place for northern Vietnam tours.
The majestic landscapes flanked by high mountains (Tay Con Linh and Kieu Lien Thi), mighty rivers (Lo and Mein Rivers) and detailed with waterfalls, valleys, forests, and distinct limestone formations have made Ha Giang an irresistible destination for nature lovers. The province offers spectacular views that are exceptionally suitable for the intrepid escapade. Paying a visit to Ha Giang will enable travelers to experience as a local. You can stay with local people and trek through colorful terraced rice fields and villages of the ethnic minority in most isolated areas, where has not been influenced by mass tourism.
Some must-stop tourist attractions in Ha Giang are Dong Van Rocky Plateau Geopark, the Palace of Vuong Family, Lung Cu Peak, Meo Vac, Khau Lai Love Market, Quan Ba Valley, and Happiness Road.
Ninh Binh
Located just about 3 hours driving from Hanoi, Ninh Binh Province is famous for its spectacular landscapes and cultural values. Trang An Landscape Complex has been recognized as the World’s Cultural and Natural Heritage. With marvelous limestone peaks and caves surrounded by rice paddies, Trang An is one of the best destinations in Vietnam for foreign travelers.
In addition to tranquil landscapes, Trang An has high cultural values. Caves’ archaeological deposits represent human occupation and utilization lasting for more than 30,000 years. There also stands Hoa Lu Citadel – the capital of Vietnam under Dinh Dynasty. Many historical vestiges still remain today. Moreover, Bai Dinh Pagoda, the biggest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia with many world and regional records, is situated in this beautiful province.
To explore the beauty of Ninh Binh travelers can pay a visit to Trang An, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Bai Dinh pagoda, Hoa Lu Citadel, etc. These attractions are located closely and will offer you unforgettable experiences.
Quang Binh
Quang Binh is favored with marvelous landscapes. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a renowned tourist attraction recognized by UNESCO as the World Natural Heritage. The complex of Phong Nha – Ke Bang consists of several marvelous caves and grottoes with fantastic stalactites and stalagmites such as Phong Nha, Tien Son, Toi, Thien Duong, and Thuy Cung. Son Doong – the world’s largest cave is also located in this region. With mysterious scenery insides, the caves and grottoes have attracted a huge number of local as well as foreign tourists. Quang Binh is also home to famous beaches such as Da Nhay and Nhat Le beaches – which are perfect for summer escape.
Additionally, Quang Binh includes several historical and cultural relics such as Hoang Phuc pagoda, Dao Duy Tu rampart, and Dong Hoi citadel. The cultural archaeological site of Bau Tro, Phu Luu bronze Drum, which existed in the same era as Dong Son Drum is also found in this province.
Hue
Once the capital of Vietnam during Nguyen Dynasty, Hue remains its ancient looks and loyal customs. The complex of Hue Citadel and the Imperial Court Music have been recognized as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The complex consists of the Imperial Citadel of Hue, royal tombs, and monuments of Nguyen dynasties such as Tu Duc, Minh Mang, and Khai Dinh. Moreover, Hue is the city of pagodas and temples. The most famous pagoda is called Thien Mu pagoda nestled to the north of the poetic Perfume River.
Cuisine and costume are also the attractions of Hue. Visitors may have chances to sample the special delicacies in Hue and buy home some specialties as souvenirs such as Me Xung and Tom Chua. More interestingly, you might catch the sight of Hue’s girls in their traditional “Ao Dai” and “Non Bai Tho” who are cycling their bikes on their ways to school. The tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of Hue will definitely leave visitors in awe!
Da Nang
Da Nang is a dynamic city in Central Vietnam. The city is renowned for its modern lifestyle, cleanliness, and safety. Da Nang is among the most popular destinations in Vietnam thanks to its richness in natural landscapes as well as cultural values. Non Nuoc Beach in Da Nang is listed one of the most beautiful seashores in the world, which is indubitably suitable for swimming and sunbathing. Marble Mountains – the five limestone hills named after five elements of the ancient oriental philosophy, which are metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, is another attractive place to visit. These mountains are also home to several temples and pagodas in mysterious caves.
Ba Na Hills – an amusement complex in Truong Son Mountain Range is a must-stop destination in the city. It used to be a resort founded by French colonizers in early 20th century with more than 200 Western-style villas, but only a few of them remains today. Ba Na attracts travelers with dense rainforests, waterfalls, and its bio-ecological diversity. Additionally, a notable attraction in Ba Na is the Southeast Asian’s biggest indoor amusement center. The Fantasy Park opens a lively and attractive entertainment world with many fascinating games for all ages. Also, Ba Na consists of many alluring places such as Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, Debay Wine Cellar, Linh Ung Pagoda, and French Village.
Hoi An
Once the major trading port of Asia, the ancient town of Hoi An is the place where visitors can discover the long-lasting culture of Asia in general and Vietnam in particular. The foreigners came from all corners of the world but most of them were from China and Japan. Many have settled in permanently and etched their marks into the history of Hoi An.
A tour to Hoi An will offer you an enlightening journey to the past. The well-preserved hundred-year-old houses and buildings enable travelers to take a closer look at the influences of Chinese, Japanese, French, and Spanish cultures in the region. Also, it is great to explore the cluster of different cultures via Hoi An festivals and cuisine. Taking a boat alongside the Thu Bon River, visiting significant historic vestiges, watching the colorful lanterns at night, or catering to the flocks of tourists on its narrow streets to sample the foods would bring about unforgettable moments.
Nha Trang
Nha Trang consists of one of the most famous Vietnamese seashores which has been listed as one of the best beaches in the world. Located in Southern Vietnam, Nha Trang is a dynamic city which stands by the sea. The city has several stunning white-sand beaches such as City Beach and Hon Chong Chenh. Not only can travelers dive into the cool turquoise sea water, sunbathe in the long sandbank, they can also participate in modern water sports such as wakeboarding, kite surfing, and banana boat rides. What’s more, in Hon Chong Chenh beach stands a rock formation that stretches towards the sea, which is an ideal place to take photos.
Mui Ne
Recently Mui Ne has attracted huge attraction from tourists thanks to its marvelous beaches and sand dunes. There exist enormous white and golden sand dunes sloping gently to the ocean – the exquisite scenery of natural settings that is rarely seen in tropical countries. It is regarded as “the little Sahara desert” of Vietnam.
Additional to swimming and participating in water sports, travelers can have some other interesting outdoor activities in the dunes such as kite-flying, jeep-driving, and sled-riding. Also, watching the glorious sunset with lovers on the sand dunes is an exceptionally romantic experience.
Ho Chi Minh City
Regarded as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City (also called “Saigon”) was the center of economics and entertainment of Indochina. It was named after the great leader of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Modern skyscrapers amidst Oriental-style pagodas and significant relics create a dynamic urban area in a very special sense.
The architecture, along with the lifestyle of Saigon, is the reconciliation between American and Chinese influences, with many dots of modernity yet without losing traditional traits. The Independence Palace, which marks the reunification of the North and the South in 1975 and the end of Vietnam War, is a must-visit destination. Other relics such as Cu Chi tunnels, Dragon House Wharf, and Notre Dame Cathedral are also amazing to explore.
Mekong Delta
Nestled in the southernmost of the country, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta is considered the country’s breadbasket. This region provides more than half of Vietnam’s rice. It is also the land of tropical fruits.
Coming to Mekong Delta, travelers can take on a boat gliding along Mekong River to come across enormous rice paddies and explore the life of friendly Southern people. You can also take time to visit the floating markets such as Cai Rang and Phong Dien to buy fresh flowers and fruits, or to listen to “Don Ca Tai Tu” – Southern Vietnam’s traditional music.
Phu Quoc Island
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc – the biggest island in Vietnam has been increasingly popular with travelers. Phu Quoc Island is famous for its big tropical forests, beautiful white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. The island remains intact from human’s influences as more than 70% of it belongs to Phu Quoc National Reservation Park. Here travelers can spend your holidays on exploring the forests, the blue-green sea, or visiting the traditional villages.
There are many stunning beaches in Phu Quoc such as Long Beach, Thom Beach, Sao Beach, and Ong Lang Beach. Some are perfect for swimming, while some are ideal for sightseeing. These are extraordinarily suitable for honeymoon or couple tours. Also, Phu Quoc is home to some specialties such as fish sauce, pepper, and pearl. Many fish sauce factories, pepper plantations, and pearl farms are available to visit.
Plenty of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and café bars have been opened to serve the increasingly high number of both local and foreign tourists.
Between rolling hills, sugary beaches, crystalline waters, colonial structures, sparkling bays, impressive limestone karst formations, idyllic sunsets, UNESCO-heritage sites, and mind-blowing landscapes, lies Vietnam; a destination that has all the ingredients to enchant couples. A honeymoon trip here literally offers it all, from bustling cities with a vibrant night scene to a colourful culture and from private diners in caves to beautiful paddy fields.
Why Vietnam for Honeymoon
Vietnam is the perfect place for romantic holidays for several reasons, but mainly because it is/offers/has:
Inexpensive destination – It lacks nothing of the luxury and amenities of its cosmopolitan international counterparts, yet provides them at a fairly economical price. Grand hotels and fine-dining facilities do not empty your bank accounts, the flights are more than affordable, internal transfers is also at low cost, and life here overall does not call for extravagant expenses unless, of course, you want to. So, you can have all the luxury and pampering you wish without the hefty price tag.
Fantastic services – Vietnam may be economical, but nobody here compromises on the quality of the services provided, at least, not the professionals in the Vietnam hospitality industry. So, you have a budget honeymoon destination in Asia that can compete with its luxurious counterparts and look them straight in the eye!
Friendly locals – Cordial hospitality and a courteous approach to tourists is interwoven with the country’s way of doing things. Locals greet and treat guests in the most loving way, are ready to help anyone in need, and engage in interesting chats with them while the professional staff ensures that you face no issues on your honeymoon in this beautiful country.
Cuisine – Exquisite Vietnamese cuisine is another thing that attracts honeymooners. Hot, sour, sweet, and salty flavours all blend perfectly, offering palate-pleasing dishes. You can enjoy delicious seafood, chilli sauces and fresh herbs on side platter, local produce, the world’s tastiest peppers and fish sauce, and the best vines; all that at heart-stopping rooftop terraces with sweeping views of the ocean and the lush scenery or a marvellous beachfront.
Scenic Vistas – Every step you take in Vietnam is a step in a paradisiac landscape distinguished by imposing mountains, jungle-like forests, verdant valleys and rice paddies, life-giving rivers, romantic waterfalls, fascinating caves, sparkling sea waters, stunning national parks, ancient monuments, shining sand dunes, white-sand beaches, and such incredible natural beauty that is hard to imagine exists.
Romantic Things to Do in Vietnam
There is definitely a long list of activities in Vietnam, which includes cycle tours, boat trips, cruise rides, sightseeing tours, tunnel explorations, musical extravaganzas at Saigon Opera house, private dining in the caves of Halong Bay, tasting delicious traditional dishes at picture-perfect locations, and shopping, to name a few. Depending on which part of this beautiful country you wish to explore, there are different things to try.
Hanoi
A history-rich and utterly exciting city (also the main transportation hub in the North) that can be the start or end destination of a Vietnam honeymoon tour. It is a place that you can lose track of time. After sunset, it is a different world, with bars selling fresh local beer brewed daily and the streets becoming packed-full of people drinking, smoking the infamous bamboo bongs, and having fun. Not far away is the magnificent Lake of the Restored Sword or Hoan Kiem Lake, where, according to the legend, a giant, golden turtle grabbed the Emperor’s sword after he defeated the Chinese from Hanoi, and vanished into the lake to give it back to its rightful owners. An excellent place to have a picnic and enjoy the views.
The Water Puppet Theatre, every couple’s cute date night idea, is also not to be missed. You can watch the ancient art form of water puppetry which is a spectacle of itself. Another interesting site is the Hoa Lo Prison complex built by the French to incarcerate thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries, which will give you an insight into the local culture.
Other things to do in Hanoi:
Eat Bun Cha – A dish that combines savoury and fresh with vegetables and meat. The broth is sour and sweet at the same time and is serviced with fresh greens (fresh banana flower, mint, coriander, basil, and lettuce), BBQ grilled pork, and bun rice noodles.
Drink Egg Coffee – Perhaps, the most delicious coffee you have ever tasted, along with coconut coffee. Generally, locals use condensed milk instead of fresh, which gives the coffee a sweeter taste.
To get around, you can do a Cyclo Tour and visit the Old Quarter of Hanoi, take a taxi, get an Uber ride, or catch a long distance sleeper train or bus. The best time to visit Hanoi is during the months of October and November when it is neither too hot nor too cold.
Sapa
Situated high up in the mountains on the border of China, Sapa is a fab town perched over a grass-covered valley with amazing views of the Fansipan mountain range (sitting at 3143m above sea level) and cascading rice fields. Besides visiting markets, chasing waterfalls, and checking out the Tram Ton Passage, you can also consider a day trek or a homestay in an ethnic minority village. Or, why not, take a cable car and climb to the summit of the imposing Fansipan Mountain. And, if you are into romantic waterfalls, Thac Bac (Silver waterfall) and Love Waterfall are both perfect for honeymooners visiting Sapa. To enjoy the most of this place, better come between March and April or October-November to avoid too much heat and rainfall.
Ha Giang
This northernmost province is a breath away from China and provides alternatives to the typical honeymoon path with mystical landscapes, pure, untouched nature, secret ethnic minority villages, limestone peaks, and rice terraces disappearing into the depths of the mountainous valleys surrounding Ha Giang. It is not a place that is ever too crowded, yet it generates a decent amount of tourism, which is great, as you have food and accommodation options and lots of room to be as adventurous as you please. If you are riding a motorcycle, you will love the Ha Giang-Yen Ming, Bac Ha-Dong Van, Dong Van-Meo Vac, and Meo Cav-Cao Bang rides; all of which will reward you with heart-stopping panoramas off the beaten path, one of the best Sunday markets in Asia, and awe-inspiring waterfalls and caves!
Cat Ba Island
Being the largest island around the Lan Ha and Ha Long bays, Cat Ba is a dream honeymoon destination for many reasons. First of all, nearly 50% of the island is a national park, and home to several endangered species, such as the Cat Ba Langur. Secondly, the rugged landscape exudes such tranquillity and peace that it feels incredibly romantic just to be here. Plus, it has some of the nicest beaches in Vietnam, encircled with natural beauties. If you want to pick the best time to come here that would be October to April as it is a perfect season for swimming, kayaking, hiking, and cruising!
Things to do at Cat Ba Island:
Relax by the Beach – Incredible beaches with sweeping views of Lan Ha Bay offering a plethora of water activities like paddle boards and kayaks and beach bars with reasonably priced drinks.
Cruise Halong & Lan Ha Bays – Most cruises include buffet lunches with foods cooked on the boat but you may also choose an overnight journey or a long multi-day one.
Rent a motorbike – Exploring Cat Ba Island on two wheels is probably the best way to get around that also comes on the cheap here. Do stop at the Cat Ba National Park, Trung Trang Cave, and Cannon Fort!
Stop at Fort Cannon – You will get some of the best views on the island overlooking Lan Ha Bay and the National Park from the spellbinding viewing platforms throughout the site or as you walk through it, as well as get a good look at large cannons and the tiny tunnels the Vietnamese used to hide during the war.
Explore Caves – Once serving as a bombproof hospital, Hospital Cave’s infrastructure impresses, as does Tung Trang Cave with its awesome vistas over the island.
Deepwater rock climbing – Cat Ba is the perfect location for rock climbing (surrounded by karst limestone formations) so do book a tour and have an adventurous Vietnam honeymoon!
Ninh Binh
Often missed by couples, this fantastic area is home to astoundingly beautiful natural sights, characterised by jagged rock formations, swirling rivers, and charming rice fields. Besides driving through the lovely landscape, you can also consider:
Boat rides at Trang An Grottos – Being part of a tour that involves paddling through the rivers and grottos can be a very romantic experience for couples visiting Vietnam. Along the way, you will see impressive temples and even feed beautiful, big fish! If you are not much into boat rides, you can cycle along Tam Coc riverside and enjoy equally stunning landscapes.
Visits to Cuc Phuong National Park – It is the largest reserve in Vietnam and home to endangered animals, rivers, limestone mountains, and profound natural beauty. Do rent a bike, though, as the park is massive.
Phong Nha
The Ke Bang National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) located here houses Hang Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, and Asia’s oldest karst mountains. Surrounded by jungle, it also offers opportunities to relax via natural mud baths inside Dark Cave, where you will need to either zip line, kayak or swim to get there, live music and entertainment provided around Dark Cave too, viewing the beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, blue rock pools, and colourful rocks on Paradise Cave, or living the total farm-to-plate experience at Wild Boar region and its family-run farms with free-range animals.
Phu Quoc Island
Every couple visiting Vietnam for their honeymoon find their personal slice of heaven at Phu Quoc Island. Also called Pearl Island, it is a tranquil tropical paradise with so much jaw-dropping natural beauty and tranquillity that it almost feels unreal. From beautiful mountains and jungle-like forests to sugary beaches and crystal clear waters, Phu Quoc’s allure is overwhelming. Honeymooners that choose to stay here usually prefer the luxury resorts at Duong Dong city, such as the La Veranda, as they provide not only ethereal views of the ocean and the unique raw charm surrounding the island but also exceptional VIP services at reasonable prices.
Things to do at Phu Quoc:
Visit Dinh Cau Temple – The island is full of pagodas, temples, and shrines but Dinh Cau offers a very interesting combination as it serves as both a temple and a lighthouse.
Chase Suoi Tranh Waterfall – On a hot day, it is the ideal spot to cool off, have a picnic, dive in the refreshing waters, and treat yourself to soul-filling panoramas.
Taste Delicious Food at Dinh Cau Night Markets – Unlike other markets in Vietnam, Dinh Cau comes to life after sunset. You have the chance to enjoy fresh seafood, from freshly-caught squid and octopus to clams and prawns and do some shopping too.
Tour to Phu Quoc Prison – Known as Coconut Prison, it used to hold war prisoners during the Vietnam War, who suffered great torture and torments. You will find tons of information on Vietnam’s history here.
Lay by the beach – Make your pick as there are more pristine locations to savour the sun slipping behind the horizon or soak up its warmth than you can count. All providing fine-sand beaches and cobalt waters, you are in for the most romantic honeymoon ever.
Of course, this is just a very small list of the places a newly-wed couple can visit and an extremely indicative list of the activities you can relish with your significant other. At the end of the day, though, it is all about what you want to take out of your trip here, what you wish to experience, and how you desire to spend your days as two people that have just made life oaths for eternal love and respect. Speaking of love, the Valley of Love in Dalat is another not-to-be-missed spot, as is Xuan Huong Lake and its romantic boat trips! And, still, we have merely scratched the tip of an iceberg!
There are two ways to get to Phu Quoc: by sea and by air.
Domestically, flights to Phu Quoc are available from many cities in Vietnam including Ho Chi Minh City (45-minute flight), Hanoi, Rach Gia and Can Tho via Vietnam Airlines (the national carrier) and several budget airlines: Jetstar Pacific, Vietjet air and Vasco (a subsidiary of Vietnam Airlines).
In peak season, there can be as many as 15-20 daily domestic flights to Phu Quoc, but it is advisable to book early to avoid disappointment as flights to Phu Quoc can sell out during the high season of December to April. From Phu Quoc International Airport, visitors can travel the 9 km to the main town of Duong Dong by taxi, motorbike or hotel transfer.
Internationally, there are direct flights to and from Phu Quoc from Siem Reap, Cambodia and Singapore via Vietnam Airlines with more routes being added all the time.
Best of all, because Phu Quoc is classified as a Special Economic Zone, visitors of all nationalities flying in / out of Phu Quoc only (and not visiting the Vietnamese mainland) are granted a visa exemption to stay up to 30 days. Please check with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country for additional requirements including having a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay and a round-trip ticket to / from Phu Quoc.
Alternately, getting to Phu Quoc by ferry is cheap and easy. Ferries leave from the coastal towns of Rach Gia or Ha Tien on the Vietnamese mainland. If traveling from Cambodia, Ha Tien is easily accessible from the seaside resort towns of Kep (25 km) and Kampot (66 km).
There are a few ferry companies including Superdong, Duong Dong Express and Ngoc Thanh, with Superdong offering the most reliable service, providing one morning and one afternoon departure from Rach Gia for the 2.5 hour journey and four daily departures from Ha Tien for the 1.5 hour trip. There is also a slow ferry from Ha Tien to Phu Quoc operated by Thanh Thoi for those traveling with cars. Ferry tickets can be easily bought through your hotel, at travel agencies or at the ferry dock.
The best time to travel by ferry is from late October to May when the weather in Phu Quoc is dry and the seas are calmer. During the wet / monsoon season (June to September), ferries are still scheduled to run daily but inclement weather may make for rough seas or cancellations.
Most fast and slow ferries will take you to Bai Vong Port on Phu Quoc, close to Long Beach. From there to the main town of Duong Dong, there are multiple transportation options, including motorcycle taxis (each able to carry one passenger with minimal luggage), taxis and shared mini-buses.
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Transportation
Honeymoon in Vietnam
How to go to Phu Quoc