Friday, February 7, 2025
Phu Quoc has secured the seventh spot in a prestigious list of “25 Places to Visit in 2025,” standing out as the only Vietnamese destination and one of the select few in Asia. Sharing the spotlight with Koh Samui in Thailand, Manila in the Philippines, and Singapore, Phu Quoc was highlighted as an ideal destination for those embracing slow travel and prioritizing sustainable tourism in the coming year.
The curated list brings together a diverse mix of emerging and iconic destinations, offering travelers fresh experiences. Among the featured locations are Osaka in Japan, Cairo in Egypt, Greenland, and Casablanca in Morocco. The selection process involved insights from travel experts, analysis of cultural and lifestyle trends, and a comprehensive review of transportation options, including flights, hotels, trains, and cruises, ensuring an informed recommendation for 2025 travel plans.
Jo Hendry Prior, co-founder of Alchemist Travel, a luxury travel specialist, praised Phu Quoc for its wide range of accommodations. From budget-friendly lodgings to opulent five-star beachfront resorts, the island caters to all types of travelers, making it a perfect escape for those coming from Singapore.
In December 2024, Travel + Leisure, a globally renowned travel publication, highlighted Phu Quoc’s affordability, stating that a three-day visit to the island costs only a fraction—about one-third to one-quarter—of what travelers would spend on a weekend getaway in Singapore or Koh Samui, Thailand. This budget-friendly appeal has played a key role in attracting more international visitors to Phu Quoc.
Phu Quoc has earned another prestigious recognition, ranking ninth among Southeast Asia’s ten most stunning islands. Dubbed Vietnam’s ‘Pearl Island,’ it stands alongside renowned tropical paradises such as Koh Phra Thong in Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, and Pulau Pangkor in Malaysia.
Southeast Asia is celebrated for its unparalleled blend of cultural diversity, rich culinary traditions, and breathtaking island scenery, making it a region unlike any other in the world. Phu Quoc’s inclusion in this esteemed list further cements its status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and vibrant local experiences.
Phu Quoc’s breathtaking scenery plays a major role in its rising popularity among travelers. The island’s southern coast is home to two must-visit gems—Bai Kem and Bai Sao—both renowned for their crystal-clear emerald waters, soft white sands, and year-round golden sunshine. These pristine beaches offer a picture-perfect escape, making them some of the most stunning coastal destinations in the world.
Phu Quoc is home to an array of world-class resorts, including New World Phu Quoc, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, and JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay stands out as a true masterpiece. Drawing inspiration from the concept of a fictional French university, the resort boasts a remarkable collection of 5,000 rare artifacts, meticulously curated from around the globe.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Phu Quoc has evolved into a vibrant hub for adventure and entertainment. One of its standout attractions is the world’s longest three-wire cable car, which transports visitors to Hon Thom Island while offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Those seeking a more immersive experience can take part in an unforgettable ocean-walking excursion at Hon Thom, allowing them to witness marine life up close.
At Sunset Town, visitors are treated to world-class entertainment with two spectacular performances—Kiss of the Sea and Symphony of the Sea—both enhanced by dazzling fireworks displays. Phu Quoc holds the distinction of being the only island globally to host two fireworks shows in a single night. For those in search of romance and exclusivity, the Kiss Bridge provides a picture-perfect sunset experience, making it a must-visit spot.
The island’s soaring international recognition reflects its rapid transformation into a premier travel destination. During the Lunar New Year holiday, Phu Quoc saw a surge in global visitors, welcoming 40 international flights daily—triple the number from 2024. The number of international arrivals soared to nearly 75,000, marking an impressive 44% increase compared to the previous year.
With its rising popularity, Phu Quoc is playing a pivotal role in elevating Vietnam’s status on the global tourism map. In 2024, Vietnam surpassed Singapore’s 16.5 million visitor arrivals, securing its position as the third most-visited country in Southeast Asia and further solidifying its appeal to international travelers in 2025.
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