While

While
island-hopping through Southeast Asia remains a common
gap-year plan, Phu Quoc has remained relatively free from
overexcited teens seeking Full Moon Parties. More than half of the
island was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2010, meaning most
travellers make the pilgrimage here for rare birds and wildlife
rather than beer bongs and house music.

Duong Dong is the largest town on the island and has its fair
share of high-end hotels. Meander down to Duong Dong Market to see
brightly coloured food stalls selling freshly caught seafood and
zingy tropical fruit juices. In the afternoon, head to Dinh Cau
Rock, a temple perched atop a collection of boulders at the mouth
of the Duong Dong River. Hop over 29 stone steps to reach this
Buddhist shrine, built in 1937 to honour Thien Hau, the goddess of
the sea. Stay until the evening to watch the sunset from the
temple’s terrace, overlooking the Duong Dong fishing harbour and
Dinh Cau beach.

Don’t miss…

Arrange a hike to take you through the tropical greenery of Phu
Quoc National Park. Look out for some of the island’s rarer
species: long-tailed macaques, slow loris, silver langurs and
hornbills. For those looking to test their hiking skills, head to
Mount Heaven for a four-hour trek culminating in a scramble up a
rickety bamboo ladder to reach the summit. If that doesn’t sound
tempting, pack a picnic to eat amid wild orchids and exotic
mushrooms at the base of Suoi Tranh Waterfall in the Suoi Tranh
Eco-Park near Duong Dong.

Who to take with you

A parent. While idyllic beaches and forest hikes provide an
excellent basis for parent-child bonding, the island also boasts a
rich history. Head to the Phu Quoc Prison, an old detainment centre
now housing artefacts, objects and pictures from the Vietnam
War.

When to go

Although the island isn’t as crowded as most of Vietnam’s
coastal areas, go in October to miss the bulk of
tourists but still catch the end of summer season.

Where to stay

Since Phu Quoc has garnered its beach-destination reputation, a
range of luxury hotels have gathered on the island’s beach front.
Stay at Chen Sea Resort and Spa, an
exclusive hideaway nestled in Ong Lang Bay, where you’ll have
cerulean waters and white-sand beaches to yourself. Situated on the
northern part of the island, explore beyond the resort to find
secluded bays fringed with humming tropical rainforests.

Most likely to bump into…

Jewellery magpies. Nicknamed “Pearl Island”, Phu Quoc is famous
for its pearl farms and showrooms. Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm exhibits
the best of the bunch, spanning 6000 square metres of cultivation
pools.

Essentials to bring with you

Comfortable footwear is essential for your hike up Mount Heaven.
Take these APL TechLoom Breeze sneakers;
made with breathable mesh and a springy mid-sole, your feet will
stay cool and supported throughout your trek.

How to get there

Although Phu Quoc has an airport, flights from London include a
stop-off in China before heading on to Vietnam. Plus, you don’t
need a visa to travel to the island.