The island’s rapid rise is helping Vietnam outshine Singapore as one of Southeast Asia’s most-visited countries.

Singaporean news agency CNA recently ranked Phu Quoc No. 7 on its prestigious list of "25 Places to Visit in 2025," placing it alongside world-renowned hotspots such as Osaka, Cairo, and Greenland.

This recognition marks a new milestone for Phu Quoc, the only Vietnamese destination featured and one of just a handful of Asian locations included, along with Koh Samui (Thailand), Manila (Philippines), and Singapore. 

CNA highlighted 2025 as the ideal time for travelers to embrace slow, sustainable tourism, making Phu Quoc’s pristine natural beauty and luxurious yet affordable offerings even more appealing.

The rankings were compiled through expert consultations and an analysis of travel trends, flights, hotels, and transportation developments. The message is clear -Phu Quoc is no longer a hidden gem; it is a top-tier global destination.

Phu Quoc’s allure lies in its unspoiled beaches, lush national parks, and world-class resorts. "With numerous small islands, a 150-kilometer coastline, and an expansive national park, Phu Quoc is the epitome of a tropical gem," CNA stated.

Singaporean travelers now find it easier than ever to explore Phu Quoc, thanks to Scoot Airlines launching direct two-hour flights in December 2024. According to Jo Hendry Prior, co-founder of Alchemist Travel, which specializes in luxury travel experiences, Phu Quoc offers an extensive range of accommodations, from budget-friendly stays to opulent five-star beachfront resorts, making it an ideal getaway for all travelers.

Global travel authority Travel + Leisure also recognized Phu Quoc’s unbeatable affordability. In December 2024, the magazine reported that a three-day vacation on the island costs just one-third to one-quarter of a similar trip to Singapore or Koh Samui. This cost advantage, combined with Phu Quoc’s stunning landscapes, has fueled its rapid rise in popularity among international tourists.

International acclaim cements Phu Quoc’s status as a dream destination

Further solidifying its reputation, Phu Quoc was ranked No. 9 on The Times (UK) list of Southeast Asia’s 10 most beautiful islands. It now stands among the region’s most iconic tropical escapes, such as Bali (Indonesia), Koh Phra Thong (Thailand), and Pulau Pangkor (Malaysia). “Nowhere else in the world offers the same cultural diversity, culinary richness, and breathtaking island landscapes as Southeast Asia,” The Times wrote.

Among Phu Quoc’s many treasures, Bai Kem and Bai Sao beaches stand out as must-visit destinations. These two breathtaking stretches of coastline are renowned for their soft white sand, emerald-green waters, and golden sunshine, making them the ultimate escape for nature lovers and beachgoers.

Phu Quoc is not only about serene beaches; it is also an entertainment hub featuring top-tier attractions. The island is home to premier resorts such as New World Phu Quoc, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, and JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. The latter, designed by globally acclaimed architect Bill Bensley, mesmerized The Times with its unique concept - an imagined French university brought to life through exquisite design and an extraordinary collection of 5,000 rare artifacts sourced from around the world.

Beyond luxury accommodations, Phu Quoc offers one-of-a-kind experiences. Visitors can soar above the sea on the world’s longest three-wire cable car to Hon Thom Island, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the island’s coastline. For an even more immersive adventure, travelers can take an ocean walk at Hon Thom, witnessing marine life up close.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Phu Quoc transforms into a dazzling entertainment hub. Sunset Town is home to two internationally acclaimed performances - "Kiss of the Sea" and "Symphony of the Sea". These mesmerizing shows, set against a backdrop of two spectacular nightly fireworks displays, make Phu Quoc the only island in the world to host two pyrotechnic extravaganzas in one night.

For those seeking a touch of romance, Kiss Bridge - an architectural marvel praised by CNN - offers an unforgettable sunset experience, where visitors can take in the breathtaking views from its unique, unconnected design.

Phu Quoc’s meteoric rise in global tourism

Phu Quoc’s booming popularity is evident in its record-breaking visitor numbers. During the Lunar New Year holiday alone, the island welcomed 40 international flights daily - triple the volume from the previous year. The number of international arrivals soared to nearly 75,000, marking a staggering 44% year-on-year increase.

Thanks to Phu Quoc’s growing global recognition, Vietnam has surged ahead as a top-tier travel destination. In 2024, Vietnam surpassed Singapore’s 16.5 million arrivals to become the third most-visited country in Southeast Asia.

With its seamless blend of natural beauty, world-class resorts, and top-tier entertainment, Phu Quoc is no longer just Vietnam’s "Pearl Island" - it is a game-changer in global tourism.

PV