'Hawaii of the East' island is the perfect alternative to Bali and Thailand
The Vietnamese island of Phú Quoc is a stunning alternative to Bali and Thailand with white-sand beaches, a tropical jungle, mountains and a UNESCO-protected national park
While Thailand and Bali are undoubtedly stunning, they're grappling with the double whammy of overtourism and escalating costs.
However, the Vietnamese island of Phú Quôc, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand and off Cambodia's coast, presents a fantastic alternative. Boasting pristine white-sand beaches, lush jungle, mountains, and a UNESCO-protected national park, all at a more affordable price point, it's a hidden gem among its busier and pricier neighbours.
With the introduction of the new Bali tourist tax and Thailand's rising prices, this island could be just the ticket. According to SiteMinder, Thailand's hotel room rates surged by around 15% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Out of the 125 million reservations recorded by Siteminder, Thailand's average daily rates climbed from roughly £109 in 2023 to approximately £127 in 2024. Given the expected tourism surge from Season 3 of White Lotus coupled with Thailand's increasing costs, Phú Quôc might be the perfect getaway to avoid the masses without breaking the bank.
Travel and Leisure magazine listed Phú Quôc as one of the "most affordable tropical destinations" in 2024, reports the Express. Hotels for March are currently starting at a mere £9, with many rooms offering sea views for less than £20 per night.
Also known as the country's "Pearl Island" due to its pearl farms, turquoise waters, and white-sand beaches like Long Beach, which stretches 20km, or the small, palm-fringed Ganh Dau, Phú Quôc is truly a paradise.
his idyllic destination is a snorkeler's paradise, boasting an incredible 260 coral species safeguarded by the Phu Quoc marine protected area within the Phu Quoc National Park. Beyond its shores, the island's mountain range and jungle, complete with cascading waterfalls and rock caves, beckon adventurers to explore its rich natural beauty through hiking.
At the heart of the island lies Duong Dong, the main town, where vibrant markets like the bustling fish market, a picturesque beach, and the historic Dinh Cau Temple await. This unique temple, built in 1937, doubles as a lighthouse and is dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea.
Nearby, the Dinh Cao Temple, perched by the sea, offers serene views and is just a short three-minute stroll from the night market. Here, visitors can indulge in a variety of local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Another highlight is the world's longest non-stop three-rope cable car, which connects the island to Hon Thom (Pineapple Island), offering breathtaking vistas of the islands and fishing boats below. For the ultimate experience, plan your visit to the "Pearl Island" during its dry and sunny season, from November to April, to avoid the rainy and monsoon season.