A week-long holiday in Phu Quoc led Dubai-based travel content creator Jabir Samuels to describe the island as having “far exceeded every expectation,” according to a feature published by the American newspaper.
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Hon Thom cable car in Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
Samuels, who regularly shares his travel experiences on social media, visited Phu Quoc in July and stayed at a five-star hotel costing about US$80 per night, including breakfast and a private balcony.
During the trip, he explored the island’s beaches, tried tropical fruits such as mangosteen for the first time, and watched nightly fireworks along the coast.
“What stood out most was the value the destination offered,” he told USA Today.
“Phu Quoc is more affordable than most islands, yet you don’t have to compromise on quality to enjoy those prices.”
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Phu Quoc’s coast line. Photo by Fabl Belek |
Phu Quoc has also received recognition from international travel platforms in recent months.
Expedia recently included the island in its Top 10 Islands of 2026, reporting that global searches for island holidays increased 55% year-on-year, with Phu Quoc recording one of the strongest increases in traveler interest.
According to Expedia, searches for Phu Quoc rose 25%, while social media mentions increased by as much as 235%. The platform cited the island as an example of the growing “affordable luxury” travel trend, where visitors can access quality accommodation and a range of travel experiences at competitive prices.
The DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 ranked it second among Asia’s Best Islands, while Travel + Leisure placed it second among the most beautiful islands in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2025, Condé Nast Traveler named Phu Quoc Asia’s most beautiful island and one of the world’s three most beautiful islands.
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Fireworks show at Sunset Town, Phu Quoc. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
While Phu Quoc has long been known for its beaches and resorts, the island has continued to expand its tourism offerings beyond traditional seaside holidays.
In southern Phu Quoc, visitors can explore Kem Beach and Sao Beach before taking the world’s longest three-wire cable car to Hon Thom Island and visiting Aquatopia Water Park.
After sunset, entertainment options include multimedia shows such as “Symphony of the Sea” and “Kiss of the Sea”, followed by two nightly fireworks displays at Sunset Town. These attractions form part of broader efforts to diversify the island’s tourism offerings and encourage longer visitor stays.
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Rendering of new projects in Phu Quoc ahead of APEC Economic Leaders’ Week 2027. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |