Phu Quoc and the Hon Thom Cable Car named among the top 10 most popular destinations of 2026 by US media

AOL’s list reflects an increasingly clear travel trend: travelers are no longer only looking for beautiful beaches, but also journeys that bring a sense of discovery and experiences memorable enough to become lasting memories. In this ranking, Phu Quoc appears as a symbol of modern Vietnamese tourism, attracting growing attention from international visitors. 

According to Expedia’s data, searches for travel to Phu Quoc have increased by as much as 53%, highlighting the rising appeal of Vietnam’s island tourism. Explaining this growing interest, AOL describes Phu Quoc as a distinctive island getaway. Vietnam’s largest island, located near Cambodia, is known for its 93 miles of stunning coastline, lush tropical forests and a relaxed island lifestyle – the kind of resort atmosphere many travelers are seeking. 

For lovers of tropical seas, Phu Quoc offers what many travelers dream of: long stretches of white sand, crystal-clear waters and a slower pace of life. From Kem Beach and Sao Beach to the pristine sandy stretches of the southern island, the landscapes here still retain a rare natural beauty. 

Alongside the beaches is a rich ecosystem of primary forest, opening trekking routes through the jungle for visitors who enjoy exploration. As AOL notes, Phu Quoc is also famous for its spectacular sunrises over the sea – the perfect moment for early risers before beginning a day of ocean adventures such as snorkeling, swimming or fishing. 

Yet if it only had beaches and tropical forests, Phu Quoc might resemble many other seaside paradises in the region. What sets this island apart, according to AOL, is the blend between pristine nature and an increasingly diverse ecosystem of experiences. 

The image AOL chose to represent Phu Quoc – the Hon Thom Cable Car – is a clear symbol of that combination. Stretching nearly 8 km, the cable car currently holds the Guinness World Record as the longest three-wire cable car in the world, connecting Sunset Town with Hon Thom Island.

During the more than 15-minute journey through the air, the cabins glide above the turquoise archipelago of southern Phu Quoc, where small green islands emerge from waters shifting in color from deep blue to emerald.

For many visitors, the cable car ride is not merely a means of transportation but also the opening moment of a journey to explore the southern island of Phu Quoc. The final stop of the line is Sun World Hon Thom, an entertainment complex that AOL mentions as one of the leading family-friendly destinations in Vietnam.

Here, Aquatopia Water Park offers a wide range of thrilling water slides, sea activities and entertainment for all ages. Families with children can spend an entire day at the water park, while more adventurous travelers can continue exploring the sea through water sports or simply enjoy the white sand and warm tropical waters.

Returning to the mainland, the journey across Pearl Island continues in a completely different setting at Sunset Town. Mediterranean-inspired streets overlooking the sea create a charming promenade atmosphere. Visitors can stroll across the Kiss Bridge, watch the sun slowly set on the horizon, or enjoy dazzling fireworks lighting up the night sky over the sea during world-class multimedia shows such as Symphony of the Sea or Kiss of the Sea.

The combination of tropical nature, iconic architecture and a rich entertainment ecosystem is gradually transforming Phu Quoc into a destination not only for relaxation but also for immersive experiences. Its presence on AOL’s list signals that Pearl Island is attracting increasing attention from international travelers – a coastal destination rising strongly on Asia’s tourism map.