Phu Quoc: tudo o que você precisa saber sobre como viajar para a ilha

Phu Quoc Island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in Vietnam and part of a 22-island archipelago. With its stunning coastline, lush forests, and abundant seafood, it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. One of the unique features of Phu Quoc is that tourists of any nationality can stay on the island for up to 30 days without a visa.

The Vietnamese government has set a goal to transform Phu Quoc into a first-class beach resort destination, with excellent infrastructure, a wide range of accommodation and dining options, and various tourist attractions. The island has a population of about 146,000 permanent residents and attracts 3 to 5 million visitors annually. If you are planning to visit Phu Quoc for the first time, here's everything you need to know.

When is the best time to visit Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc has two main seasons: six months of dry and sunny weather from November to April, and six months of rainy weather from May to October. During the monsoon season, the southwest monsoons bring frequent and sometimes heavy rains, interspersed with patches of sunshine. If you decide to visit during the rainy season, consider choosing a hotel with a pool for a quick swim between showers.

Phu Quoc also faces a waste management problem, producing more garbage (an average of 190 tons per day) than the island can handle. In October and November, northeast winds bring debris from fishing boats, the island itself, and other areas around the Gulf of Thailand to Phu Quoc's eastern beaches. Most mid-range to high-end hotels and resorts do a good job of cleaning their own beaches, but this is something to consider.

How long should I stay in Phu Quoc?

If you are looking for a short beach break to end your Vietnam trip, three days will be enough to see the main attractions on the island and have some relaxation time. Those who want to spend more time on the island should consider dividing their trip into two parts: a few nights in Duong Dong (the main town) and a few nights in either the Vinpearl complex in the north, with its amusement park, safari, and Venice-style Grand Hotel, or the south with its beautiful beaches.

Is it easy to get to and around Phu Quoc?

There are direct domestic flights to and from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Haiphong, as well as some major cities in the region, including Seoul, Taipei, and Bangkok. The flight from Ho Chi Minh City takes just one hour. There are also ferries from Ha Tien or Rach Gia in the Mekong Delta.

From the airport, the main town of Duong Dong is a 15-20 minute drive away (14 km/9 miles). Most hotels include at least one transfer; otherwise, taxis are cheap and plentiful. If you are staying right in the center of Duong Dong, you will likely find restaurants, spas, and shops within walking distance. Taxis or ride-hailing apps (Grab and XanhSM) for short distances (such as the Phu Quoc Night Market) should cost just a few dollars. However, longer distances can add up. If you have a driver's license, you can rent scooters.

Visit some of the best beaches in the region.

Phu Quoc has nearly two dozen beaches, ranging from wild and secluded to stretches of perfect fine sand bordered by crystal clear turquoise waters. Two of the best beaches are in the southeast of the island. Sao Beach has restaurants and beach clubs, making it popular among tour groups who often flock to the sand just before noon for a few hours. To avoid the crowds, arrive early or head to the clubs further north and rent a sunbed (quite expensive) or spread out a towel. The next beach, Kem Beach (also known as Khem), is quieter. There is a public access section next to the Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, but if you love the beach, spend a few nights at one of the top hotels along this stunning stretch of sand.

Try some of Phu Quoc's specialties on an island tour.

Phu Quoc has a surprising number of unique dishes for such a small island. Tours of the southern part of the island usually include a visit to a sim wine distillery (a sweet liquor made from the fruit of the roselle), a pepper farm (expect to see fresh pepper strands in your French fries), a pearl farm where the pearl cultivation process is explained, and fish sauce factories (Phu Quoc fish sauce is valued throughout Vietnam). Drive through the national forest in the northern part of the island to taste local honey and savor seafood.

In conclusion, Phu Quoc is a beautiful island with pristine beaches, rich natural resources, and a unique culinary scene. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Phu Quoc has something to offer. Plan your trip accordingly, considering the weather and waste management situation, and make the most of your time on this tropical paradise.