International visitors praise Phu Quoc as 'beyond expectations'

From Dec. 4-6, the "Journey to Your True Paradise" famtrip gathered over 70 representatives from top global travel agencies, airlines, and online platforms in Phu Quoc.

Among the participants were well-known names such as Hanatour, Crystal Bay, Pegas Touristik, Inventum, Anex, Hoang Tra, SCAT, Starlux Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, KKday, Klook, Trip.com, and Traveloka. These industry leaders have recognized Phu Quoc as an emerging global tourism destination, noting the island's remarkable transformation and its broad range of tourism offerings.

Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc with many attractive experiences for tourists, changing the face of the Pearl Island. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

Nguyen Huy Hoang, General Manager of Klook in Vietnam, reflected on Phu Quoc's rapid development over the past few years.

"Five to seven years ago, Phu Quoc tourism was mainly centered on its natural beauty and a few marine activities. However, recent additions like the VUI Fest night market, Sun World Hon Thom, and the Kiss of the Sea show have really injected new life into the island, offering a diverse range of experiences," Hoang explained.

Private enterprises, particularly Sun Group, have played a pivotal role in shaping Phu Quoc's tourism landscape. Sun Paradise Land, a major development project in the southern part of the island, has launched several attractions such as the Sunset Town, Kiss Bridge, and regular fireworks displays.

Planned future projects like the Sun Serenia Hospital and a beachfront square at Dat Do Beach aim to further enhance the visitor experience and encourage longer stays on the island.

Perspective of Sun Serenia Hospital when completed in Southern Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

"I am impressed by how quickly Phu Quoc is evolving," said Weichun Liu, CEO of global travel platform KKday.

Liu first visited the island in 2022 and was already struck by the cable car project.

On her return in 2024, she noted that the transformation wasn't just in the infrastructure and hotels, but also in the vibrant shows and lively night markets.

"Phu Quoc is building a cohesive tourism ecosystem, and I am optimistic about its future," Liu said.

Kem Beach is one of the "magnets" attracting Western tourists in Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

Phu Quoc's impressive growth is also reflected in its tourism statistics. By 2024, the island is expected to welcome nearly 6 million visitors, with nearly 1 million international tourists, a 73.4% increase from the previous year. As of November 2024, Phu Quoc had hosted more than 4,000 international flights, marking a 175% increase compared to 2023.

Diana Zolotova, a tourist from Kazakhstan, praised the island during her return visit in December 2024, remarking, "I was even more amazed than the first time. The island continues to surprise with its unique attractions, like the Kiss Bridge and the nightly fireworks."

John Marcell from the United States, who has visited Phu Quoc since the 2010s, noted the dramatic changes, saying, "Phu Quoc is now vibrant and dynamic—it's like Miami. Thirty days aren't enough anymore."

Aspira Tower is about to start construction in Hon Thom island, Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

International tourists frequently share the sentiment that Phu Quoc has exceeded their expectations, with many praising the island's comprehensive offerings. "Most visitors are surprised by how much the island has developed," said Weichun Liu.

Looking ahead, Phu Quoc is set to continue attracting visitors with upcoming projects like the Aspira Tower on Hon Thom Island, which is expected to become a landmark akin to Dubai's iconic attractions. "Once infrastructure projects are completed, Phu Quoc has the potential to become a true 'Hawaii of the East,'" said Hong Jung Min, General Manager of Hanatour Vietnam.

As Phu Quoc continues to grow, its place on the global tourism map is becoming increasingly secure, offering visitors a diverse array of experiences that are poised to exceed expectations for years to come