Brian Jeffrey
Phu Quoc is becoming a highly sought-after travel destination in Vietnam, attracting a significant number of international tourists.
Eastar Jet, a South Korean airline, has recently introduced new flights from Cheongju to Phu Quoc, operating four times a week. This addition brings the total to four South Korean airlines offering direct flights to Vietnam’s largest island, including Korean Air, Jin Air, and Jeju Air.
Rankify Korea reports that Phu Quoc has surpassed other popular destinations like Da Nang, Nha Trang, Bangkok, Phuket, and Kyoto to become the top choice for South Korean tourists.
Similarly, Taiwanese travelers are increasingly choosing Phu Quoc as a preferred destination. TigerAir and Starlux Airlines now operate approximately eight flights to Phu Quoc weekly.
Starlux Airlines’ Marketing Director, Chih Hao Chen, shared plans to meet the rising demand by using A321neo aircraft with 188 seats for Phu Quoc flights. Booking rates for July and August have exceeded 90%, prompting a switch to wide-body aircraft for the Taipei to Phu Quoc route starting in October, with a new route from Taichung launching by the end of October.
During the first half of 2024, Phu Quoc welcomed 1,947 international flights, a significant 186% increase from the previous year. The Phu Quoc International Airport anticipates handling 22 to 26 international flights daily in the latter half of the year, nearly 2.5 times more than earlier in the year.
The Kien Giang Department of Tourism noted that the city received 499,172 international visitors in the first six months, achieving 74.9% of the annual target and marking a 134.8% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Chairman Huynh Quang Hung of the Phu Quoc City People’s Committee expressed that South Korean and Taiwanese tourists constitute a significant portion of international visitors, with European tourists closely following. The expectation is for both flight numbers and visitor arrivals to continue rising in the latter half of the year.
Phu Quoc is solidifying its place as a favored destination for international tourists. Recently ranked second among the top 25 most amazing islands worldwide by Travel + Leisure readers, the island has surpassed renowned locations like Bali and Phuket, ranking right behind the Maldives.
The island’s appealing natural landscape, favorable climate, expanding tourism infrastructure, and various entertainment options contribute to its increasing allure.
Chairman Huynh Quang Hung highlighted the ongoing commitment of major corporations such as Sun Group, Vingroup, and BIM Group in investing in top-tier tourism, service, and entertainment projects on Phu Quoc.
For instance, in the southern region of Phu Quoc Island, Sun Group has played a significant role in establishing a new tourist hub, enhancing the existing administrative center in Duong Dong. Luxury resorts managed by prestigious hotel brands like Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Accor, and Rosewood Hotels are situated along the eastern coastline, offering upscale accommodations and spa facilities.
Along the western coast, Sunset Town stands out as a massive entertainment complex with substantial investment exceeding 4,000 billion VND. It features iconic structures and a wide range of entertainment experiences, festivals, cuisine, and cultural activities.
Notable attractions include the unique Kiss Bridge, recognized by CNN for its distinctive design, and the renowned “Kiss of the Sea” art show. Additionally, visitors can enjoy Vietnam’s first beach night market, VUI-Fest Bazaar, and performances at the Vietnamese Puppet Theater “A Oi.” Future attractions to be unveiled by the year’s end include the Sun Kraft Beer factory and restaurant, the Kiss Bridge Night Club, and performances by top international artists, enhancing Phu Quoc’s status as a vibrant year-round tourist destination.
Experts predict that Phu Quoc, with its master plan until 2040, has the potential to welcome 14.6 million tourists, positioning it as a direct competitor to major Asian tourist spots like Phuket and Bali. With its natural beauty, special visa policies, and ongoing investments in infrastructure and tourism facilities, Phu Quoc aims to establish itself as a leading global destination sooner than expected.
