(#wanderlusttips #Phuquoc) There are many ways to hide from the tropical summer heat. You can find refuge in the green valleys filled with grass and flora, the windy mountains, or the stunning yet tranquil beaches. For adventurers who love the ocean, why refrain from visiting some diving paradises in Vietnam and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries.
[rpi]
Dubbed the pearl island, Phu Quoc is a popular destination both for Vietnamese and international holidayers. Phu Quoc island is a part of Phu Quoc District in Kien Giang Province. The island is home to pristine white sand beaches, green forests, crystal clear water, a unique ecosystem and many beautiful resorts.
Phu Quoc features numerous attractions. The north of the island is covered in primary forest; there are pristine beaches and an abundance flora and fauna. Visitors can tour pepper farms to discover a Phu Quoc specialty, enjoy fresh seafood, relax in the waves at Ganh Dau beach, visit the tranquil Tranh stream, walk in Bai Dai and watch the sunset from Cape Dinh Cau. At night visitors can roam around Dinh Cau night market and shop for souvenirs for their family. The locals live in the south and east of the island where there are many beautiful beaches and peaceful fishing villages. Bai Sao beach is known for its white sand, crystal clear water, and shade from the coconut trees. Khem beach is still pristine and delicious fresh seafood is on offer here. Ham Ninh fishing village is worth a visit to enjoy sweet and fresh steamed crabs and learn about the fishermen’s lives. For those interested in history a visit to the remains of Phu Quoc prison is a must.
Phu Quoc is known for its diverse ecosystem and stunning diving spots. Diving spots are mainly located in the south of the island; with a depth of 10 – 12 metres they are suitable for inexperienced divers. Tourists will get a chance to see coral reefs, colourful fish, sea turtles, shellfish and octopus in their natural oceanic habitat. In the north of the island, popular diving spots include An Thoi archipelago where Hon Doi Moi and Hon Mong Tay are located. In the south, there are Hon Ban, Hon Thay Boi, Ganh Dau, Ong Quoi Cape and Cua Can. Snorkelling tours cost about 350,000 – 800,000 Vietnamese Dong per person per trip. Scuba diving tours are more expensive, with prices ranging from 1,100,000 to 3,300,000 Vietnamese Dong. Companies that offer these tours in Phu Quoc are Flipper Diving Club and Phu Quoc Diving Centre.
Phu Quoc restaurants serve delicious specialties mainly made from seafood like herring salad, Ham Ninh crabs and grilled snails at reasonable prices ranging from 30,000 – 200,000 Vietnamese Dong per meal. On 30/4 street there are many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy these dishes.
Accommodation on Phu Quoc is diverse. Many hotels and resorts are located on Tran Hung Dao Street with prices starting from 350,000 Vietnamese Dong per night. In Dong Duong Town there are a number of affordable motels and hotels for budget travellers with cheaper prices. The most suitable time to visit Phu Quoc is from October to September, with peak season from April to September. From Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel on land to Rach Gia and Ha Tien and then take a boat to the island.
Minh Hang | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet