Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s idyllic Pearl Island, is set to step into an exciting new era in 2024 as it invites the world’s travellers to discover a series of exciting new tourism experiences, including an iconic bridge, vibrant multimedia shows, cultural attractions and a brand-new internationally-branded five-star resort. Once upon a time, Phu Quoc was a sleepy fishing island with idyllic beaches but very little to offer the small number of intrepid tourists, who made the trip when the only direct flight came from Ho Chi Minh City. But in recent years, the “Pearl Island” (as it’s known to Vietnamese) has been transformed into a vibrant and exciting destination.
Now, travellers from all across the globe are flying into Phu Quoc International Airport, lured not just by the pristine white sands and azure waters, but also by a range of captivating new tourism experiences and sumptuous five-star resorts managed by the world’s leading hotel brands. What’s more, the island, which is blessed with an advantageous climate that means it’s a destination all-year round, regularly plays host to major events and music festivals – one of the world’s most popular bands, Maroon 5 performed to 12,000 people at Grand World Phu Quoc on December 16 and through the festive period, a series of fun festivals and lavish parties are being held all around the island.
Indeed, with so much to see and do, there is no better time for couples, families and friends to visit Phu Quoc and discover why this popular tropical island is being touted as one of the world’s hottest destinations for 2024 and beyond!
Revel in the beauty of the new Kiss Bridge
Nestled on the coast in Sunset Town, close to Phu Quoc’s southern tip, the Kiss Bridge is an ingenious architectural creation, crafted by the acclaimed Italian architect Marco Casamonti. This exquisite landmark features two 400-metre-long pathways that stretch out over the rippling water and meet in the middle, just 30cm apart – so two lovers can lean over for a kiss! Set against the beautiful backdrop of the sea and sunset, this breath-taking bridge was designed to evoke a timeless message about love and the connection between people, nature and the universe. Officially opening in December, the Kiss Bridge has already become one of Asia’s most Instagrammable locations!
Uncover Phu Quoc’s cultural heritage at VUI-Fest Bazaar, Vietnam’s first night market by the sea
After a day of catching rays on the beach, you can explore the rich heritage of Phu Quoc at the newly created VUI-Fest Bazaar, the first night market by the sea concept of its kind in Vietnam. As the sun sets over Sunset Town, this vibrant bazaar comes alive with more than 40 stalls, theatrical performances, interactive art shows, sizzling street food and more! It’s a fiesta of fun where shoppers can also discover a wide range of locally produced goods, including clothing, artworks, handcrafted gifts, and other original souvenirs. VUI-Fest Bazaar is also an eco-friendly event with no single-use plastic bags or drinking straws.
Feel the spirit of Italy’s Amalfi coast at La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton
In recent years, Phu Quoc has continually raised the bar for luxury accommodations. The latest addition is La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton, a brand-new five-star resort that exudes Mediterranean elegance and overlooks a pristine beach and Kiss Bridge. Inspired by the vibe of Italy’s Amalfi coast, this stunning seafront resort showcases 197 bright, sunlit rooms and suites, plus a selection of shimmering pools, a soothing spa, fitness centre and kids’ club. The Italian style also flows through the restaurants, which include Mare, an authentic ristorante, Il Salone, the palazzo-inspired lounge, and La Capri Beach Club, which is a chic spot to unwind through the day and night.
Be dazzled by the “Kiss of the Sea” multimedia show and daily fireworks!
In Phu Quoc, the fireworks don’t only light up the sky on New Year’s Eve – they are ready to dazzle visitors all-year-round! “Kiss of the Sea” is a spectacular new multimedia show that is held every evening at Sunset Town. Projected on a specially designed stage with a water screen almost 1,000 square metres in size, this 25-minute performance will whisk you away through space and time into a world of fantasy to witness a dramatic clash between darkness and light, fire and water. Every nightly show also culminates with fantastic fireworks display that will always wow the audience.
Discover a collection of world-class resorts
Elsewhere, a series of award-winning hotels and resorts, including JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, New World Phu Quoc Resort, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, and Premier Village Phu Quoc have all helped to put the island on the map for luxury tourism. It has also been reported that Marriott International will be the next hotelier to follow with plans underway to develop Vietnam’s first ever Ritz-Carlton Reserve and Luxury Collection branded resort on Phu Quoc.
Enjoy an unforgettable ride on a cable-car
Having been named on TIME Magazine’s list of the “Top 100 Greatest Places in the World”, and as one of Condé Nast Traveler’s “World’s Top Islands” in 2023, Phu Quoc has been described as ‘paradise for everyone’. Indeed, last but not least, you and your loved ones can also take a thrilling cable-car ride, which travels for 7,899.9 metres from the south of the island over the shimmering sea to Hon Thom Island, where you can find more stunning beaches as well as a nature park and water park with fun rides for people of all ages.
