PUBLISHED September 15th, 2020 06:00 am | UPDATED July 22nd, 2024 03:47 pm
With its white sand beaches and evergreen forests, Phu Quoc is one of those islands you can unironically call postcard-perfect. Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Vietnam’s largest island is a haven for sun-seekers and snorkellers. Yet it comes with a whole spectrum of cultural richness to savour besides, from heritage shrines to cutting-edge music festivals. In this edition of Wander From Home, we give you a virtual taste of idyllic Phu Quoc.
Take the World’s Longest Sea Cable Car Ride
Just shy of 8km long, the Hon Thom Cable Car ranks among the world’s longest cable car rides, and it’s certainly the longest sea-crossing route. Connecting An Thoi in the southeast to Hon Thom Island in the south, this scenic route offers 15 solid minutes of soaring in the sky. Enjoy 360-degree views of lush hills, charming villages, and turquoise sea dotted with fishing boats in this video montage, or get your complete dose of serenity with this full-length ride.
Eat Your Way Through Phu Quoc Night Market
A buzzy market in the heart of Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Night Market is a 500-meter stretch of pure foodie indulgence. Seafood is the star of the show, and you can’t miss the large tanks brimming with live crabs, shrimps, and fish; pick your ocean gem of choice and watch it sizzled fresh in front of you. Peanut lovers can go nuts here as well – these crunchy snacks are sold in dozens of quirky flavours, from matcha to durian to shrimp. To get a taste of all the market has to offer – grilled quail eggs, prized black pepper, local craft beer, and more – check out this walking tour.
Snorkel the Colourful Reefs
It’s no surprise that this island paradise is prime for snorkelling, particularly its northwestern region. Offshore, clear blue waters barely conceal rainbow-like reefs and spectacular dive sites. Popular snorkel spots include Nudibranch Garden, a site on the east coast named for the brilliantly hued molluscs that which call it home. To the north, there’s the tiny, pristine Fingernail Island – plunge into its crystal waters with this underwater adventure. Not far away, the waters off Buom Island teem with huge sea urchins, butterfly fish, and other marine life.
Groove Out with Electronic Titans at EPIZODE
At the end of each year, electronic music fest EPIZODE hits Phu Quoc with an irresistible cocktail of sun, sand, and cutting-edge sound. Held on the golden sands of Sunset Sanato Beach, this 12-day bonanza sees fresh beats from house and techno legends, mixed in with wellness activities and art installations. The fifth edition kicks off on 29 December 2020, and the lineup promises thrills aplenty; EPIZODE5: EPILOGUE will feature superstars like Ricardo Villalobos, Jamie Jones, Ouissam, and Apollonia. Can’t make it down this year? Feed your nostalgia with the 2019 and 2018 aftermovies.
Tour A Fish Sauce Factory
Fish sauce – the condiment that takes countless Vietnamese dishes from delish to divine. Blended with lime juice, sugar, and chili, this addictive dipping sauce goes fabulously with classic bites like spring rolls and roast pork belly. Thanks to its anchovy-rich waters, Phu Quoc is home to several world-renowned sauce makers; the island’s fish sauce is so synonymous with quality that it holds European Union Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. This virtual tour offers a peek into this historic craft – hop aboard an anchovy fishing boat, then take a tour of the Phung Hung Fish Sauce Factory to glimpse the fermentation process.
Hike Up to Dinh Cau Rock Temple
Part scenic lighthouse, part colourful shrine, Dinh Cau Temple is a feast for the eyes. Perched atop rock formations at the mouth of the Duong Dong River, this historic temple houses the deity Thien Hau – a sea goddess worshipped by Phu Quoc’s fishermen. While some come to offer incense, others make the pilgrimage to enjoy splendid views of sea and sky atop the lighthouse. Explore the shrine and its panoramic surroundings here.
Forage for Tram Mushrooms
When the rainy season comes to Phu Quoc, it brings with it a sprinkling of umami goodness: tram mushrooms. Native to the island’s mangrove forests, tram mushrooms lend their sweetness to many seasonal dishes, from grilled shrimp to dumplings and fishballs. You’ll also find them starring in the ultimate comfort dish – chicken mushroom broth. These fungi gems are picked wild, so join the hunt with this virtual hike through the island’s lush Melaleuca forests.
Catch A Sunset
Sun-worshippers have their pick of beaches here – the island is home to around 20 powdery, palm-lined stretches of sand. To catch one of Phu Quoc’s glorious sunsets, head down to one of the more tranquil gems. There’s Ganh Dau Beach, captured to best advantage in this sunset video. Framed by high hills and pristine forests, this golden sand beach is a stellar contender for the title of ‘best beach on the island’. The crown, though, certainly goes to Sao Beach, famed for its jaw-droppingly white sands. Perch yourself on the shore with this video, and just soak up those cotton candy colours and shimmering waters.