Phu Quoc, a gem in Vietnam’s Kien Giang province, has once again captured global recognition, clinching the title of World’s Leading Nature Island Destination in 2024 at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
This accolade, now earned for the third time, cements its reputation as a global icon of natural beauty. The island’s accolades don’t stop there—it was also nominated for Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2024, a title it proudly claimed in 2023.
For diplomats stationed in Southeast Asia, Phu Quoc offers a perfect getaway to the heart of the region. Its proximity and connectivity via international flights make it an accessible retreat for a weekend getaway or an extended diplomatic respite. From Singapore, total flight time is under two hours with a direct flight, although flights from most airlines require a short layover in Kuala Lumpur.
“Pearl Island”
Known as the “Pearl Island” Phu Quoc is home to lush rainforests, crystalline waters, and powdery sands. Its landscapes are protected within the Phu Quoc National Park, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve.
Established in 2006, the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve has become one of the world’s premier destinations for experiencing nature in its purest form. Encompassing a network of 105 islands, with Phu Quoc as the largest, the biosphere serves as a vital sanctuary for hundreds of plant and animal species.
On land, hiking trails offer birders the chance to spot over 200 native bird species. Turning to wildlife, those with keen eyes will catch a glimpse of rare wildlife like macaques, lorises and langurs.
At sea, around 40% of the marine areas surrounding the islands comprise of coral reefs. Flourishing seagrass beds and seaweed meadows provide critical habitats for endangered species such as hawksbill and green turtles. The area is also one of only two places in Vietnam where the elusive dugong, a marine mammal teetering on the brink of extinction, can still be found.
Luxury stays
Phu Quoc’s allure extends beyond nature. Awarded Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination in 2023 by World Travel Awards, the island boasts an array of five-star accommodations.
Resorts like InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort and JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay offer stellar standards associated with their respective names.
Meanwhile, lesser-known gems include La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc, which is styled like a French colonial mansion, and Anja Beach Resort & Spa which, by contrast, is inspired by traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture.
Gastronomic excellence
Phu Quoc is well known for its fish sauce, seafood and locally harvested black pepper. Travelers looking for some niche gastronomic insights can tour a fish sauce factory.
If that sounds a bit too pungent for the Diplomat-at-Rest, floating restaurants offer fresh seafood that incorporates the area’s famous black pepper. This will likely be paired with sim wine, another specialty of the island, which is made from the fruits of the local rose myrtle.
A hop, skip and a jump away
Phu Quoc International Airport connects the island to major hubs across Southeast Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Bangkok. While direct flights from Singapore are less frequent, Scoot, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, now operates regular direct flights.
The island’s visa exemption policy, allowing stays of up to 30 days, adds to its appeal, positioning Phu Quoc as an ideal retreat for diplomats and expatriates in the region.
