Located in the very southwest of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island, also known as Pearl Island, forms part of the Kien Giang province. With a history of conflict and a future built on hope, the land borders of this beautiful island also border Thailand and Cambodia. With around 180,000 inhabitants, the Phu Quoc peninsula consists of 22 islands covering an area of approximately 585 km², but tourists will tend to spend their time on the central namesake island. Above all, it is a popular tourist region known for starfish-covered beaches, beautiful coral, indigenous forests, and picturesque landscapes.
Features of Phu Quoc
Most of the region's economic activity takes place in the main city, Duong Dong. Here, you will find tourist infrastructure, day and night markets, and many factories producing a traditional fish sauce, which is recognized through the “national intangible cultural heritage, Phu Quoc fish sauce factory,” "nước chấm" from anchovies, and is used in most Vietnamese dishes.
Vietnam is the world's largest exporter of black pepper, and the island has various plantations that can be visited on a day trip. A local will lead you around a farm and show you how the pepper is farmed and handled. Often, these excursions will include exposure to the range of activities taking place at such a farm, which can include other consumables such as honey, beer, and even wine.
Moreover, the island has an abundance of pearls that are used for custom jewelry sets. You can visit pearl farms or reputable merchants to purchase a souvenir during your stay. Be aware that pearls sold at the night market are not of the same quality or caliber you will buy directly from a Pearl farm.
Useful address:
Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm
Đường Trần Hưng Đạo, Dương Tơ, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang
Charm Galery Phu Quoc
8VG6 5WQ, Vinpearl, Gành Dầu, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang
Nature in Phu Quoc
The island has a nature reserve status, as roughly 50% of its territory is controlled by the forest department. This allows for the preservation of its natural assets as well as its tourism cachet. Indeed, the Phu Quoc forests have fauna and flora aplenty, with some plant species that are more than 1,000 years old! Tourists have access to four protected spots within the National Park: Bai Thom, Cua Duong, Ham Ninh, and Ganh Dau. These are open for camping, bird-watching, and hiking. Each one has trails and dirt roads you can explore by bike or on foot. There are many nature walks available in the mountains, as well as many areas for strolls along the rivers and streams.
Beaches in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is popular for its white-sand beaches and wild coves. The most popular places for tourists are Ong Lang Bai, Bai So, Bai Dam, and Bai Truong. People prefer to go on vacation in Phu Quoc for the white sand and blue, almost transparent, lagoons. The island's natural beauty extends beyond the land - in Hon Doi Moi and An Thoi, you can go snorkeling or diving to explore the coral reefs.
Good to know:
A once popular tourist destination, Vinh Dam Bay has become a dedicated export port and is no longer open to the public. As Phu Quoc continues to develop, more high-speed boats and daily flights are being added every day.
Fishing in Phu Quoc
You might be delighted by squid fishing in Phu Quoc, which usually takes place at night. You can simply join the fishermen who are equipped with powerful lights to head out in the dark. In addition, you can take a boat trip across the archipelago to meet the locals and discover their culture and traditions.
Useful links:
Making the brand and cultural heritage of Phu Quoc fish sauce growing - Nước Mắm Khải
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