Phu Quoc beats Bali, Phuket to be named world's second most beautiful island

Indonesia's Bali ranked third while Thailand's Koh Samuicame in 9th and Phuket at 16th, based on 700,000 votes of readers that rated on criteria such as natural attractions, activities, food, friendliness and value.

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is known for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts.

Phu Quoc received 500,000 foreign tourists in the first six months of this year, up 44% year-on-year, according to Kien Giang's Department of Tourism.

A series of South Korean celebrities have recently flocked to visit the island, boosting its profile on the global tourism map.

25 best islands in the world according to Travel+Leisure readers:

Maldives

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Bali, Indonesia

Milos, Greek

Dominica

Crete, Greek

Hvar & Dalmatia, Croatia

Galápagos, Ecuador

Koh Samui, Thailand

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Ischia, Italy

Cuba

Palawan, Philippines

Fiji

Golden Isles, US

Phuket, Thailand

Sicily, Italy

Anguilla

Moorea, French Polynesia

Corfu & Ionia, Greek

Sardinia, Italy

Madeira, Portugal

Skye & the Hebrides, Scotland

Paros, Greek

Zanzibar, Tanzani