Located just off Vietnam’s sultry southwest coast, Phu Quoc makes for one of Southeast Asia’s most blissfully laid-back getaways. Pack your breeziest outfits and escape to a tropical island away from the hustle and bustle…
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Beautiful settings
Couples seeking a chilled beach escape won’t be disappointed in Phu Quoc. Dotted across the island’s coastline, a handful of boutique resorts occupy private stretches of spectacular white-sand beach, creating an idyllic setting for relaxing.
In the northeast, there’s also Bai Thom with its coconut husk-strewn, palm frond-brushed beach and azure ocean backdrop – perfect for an intimate picnic. To the northwest, Bai Dai offers a brilliant vantage point to enjoy Phu Quoc’s spectacular sunsets. Bai Truong (better known as Long Beach) is the most developed part of the island, stretching 20 kilometres along the eastern side of the island from Duong Dong almost to An Thoi port in the south. And it’s here that you’ll find a cluster of upscale bungalow-style hideaways with everything from beachfront comfort food to fine-dining restaurants, open-air cocktail bars and a handful of water-sports options.
Unique experiences
The locals have always made their living off the land and ocean, even when the island was an infamous penal centre during French colonial rule and the Vietnam war. Today, Phu Quoc is renowned for its bountiful fishing grounds, black pepper trees and high-quality nuoc mam (fish sauce).
You’ll also find luxury and adventure here, with visits to the local pearl farm, day- and night-fishing trips and treks through evergreen forest lending themselves to incredible day-trips. Our advice? Don’t miss exploring the magnificent Phu Quoc National Park (pictured above), with its enchanting streams, waterfalls and hidden lakes – paradise found.
For the romantics…
With such sensational scenery, the island offers plenty of romantic experiences for couples. Water-babies, Phu Quoc boasts some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Vietnam and Southeast Asia – look out for fascinating creatures like dugongs and Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles.
Consider yourselves foodies? Book a table at La Veranda Resort’s sophisticated Pepper Tree Restaurant for captivating ocean views and fine-dining. Of course, if you’re more about the simple things, there’s also more than enough hammocks strung around the island that are perfect for taking it easy.
Thinking of a romantic getaway in Asia? Find beautiful accommodation here…
Images sourced via: phuquocislandtourism.com/ and www.laverandaresorts.com/
