Brian Jeffrey
Phu Quoc is becoming increasingly attractive as a weekend destination due to new direct flights from Singapore, enhancing its appeal for tourists from nearby countries like Thailand and Singapore.
Beginning December 20, 2024, Scoot, the budget airline of Singapore Airlines, will provide direct flights to Phu Quoc from Singapore, operating three round trips per week as reported by The Straits Times.
Flights will leave Singapore at 12:35 PM and arrive in Phu Quoc at 1:20 PM. The return journey will start at 1:55 PM, landing back in Singapore at 4:50 PM. In January 2025, Scoot plans to increase the frequency to five flights a week.
Phu Quoc is renowned for its stunning beaches and diverse wildlife, earning accolades from various travel publications. Travel + Leisure placed it as the second most beautiful island in the world, following the Maldives, while Condé Nast Traveler has recognized it as one of the top islands for three consecutive years, with increasing recognition each year.
The introduction of these direct flights is anticipated to draw more tourists to Phu Quoc from around the world, especially as Singapore acts as a primary global transit center, handling over 85 million visitors annually.
Phu Quoc is a visa-free destination for all international travelers, positioning it as an appealing choice for expatriates and professionals based in Singapore, particularly those from Europe and the United States.
With approximate 1.64 million expatriates residing in Singapore, Phu Quoc’s affordable options make it an attractive weekend escape compared to Bangkok, which has around 200,000 expatriates. Tourists can enjoy a luxurious experience at Phu Quoc without spending much—Singapore’s average daily cost of living is about $95, in stark contrast to Phu Quoc’s budget-friendly prices.
Phu Quoc features a unique combination of nature and culture, highlighted by its UNESCO-recognized national park, which serves as a habitat for rare species. Scoot’s motivation to launch flights to Phu Quoc stemmed from the island’s inherent beauty and vibrant attractions, according to The Straits Times.
The months of October and November are optimal for launching new flights as this is when the island enters peak season with pleasant weather. Booking.com has recognized Phu Quoc as one of the top five romantic destinations in Vietnam during autumn.
To attract year-end travelers, Phu Quoc has introduced new experiences and entertainment options to keep visitors engaged.
An international spotlight shone on Phu Quoc last year with the launch of the Kiss Bridge and the Kiss of the Sea show at a massive sea theater. This year, the island will showcase the Symphony of the Sea show featuring thrilling sports like jetskiing and flyboarding, blended with traditional Vietnamese festivities.
Additional highlights include:
– Kaya Indigenous Show and DJ events on Hon Thom Island.
– Activation shows at the new Sun Baravia Bistro.
– A year-round beer festival and nightly fireworks.
For golf lovers, the recent opening of the 18-hole Eschuri Vung Bau Golf Course promises a remarkable experience with glorious sunset views over land and sea.
Starting November 11, 2024, flights from Singapore to Phu Quoc can be booked, with one-way tickets in economy class priced around $135 USD.
Leslie Thng, CEO of Scoot, expressed hopes of encouraging more travelers to explore the various experiences at the new destination, emphasizing plans for network expansion and new travel opportunities, as reported by The Straits Times.
With its scenic beauty, unique sightseeing options, and reasonable costs, Phu Quoc is gearing up to be the go-to spot for expatriates and tourists in search of a tropical escape.
