Phu Quoc Named One of the Most Desired Destinations of 2026 by Slovenian Magazine

In its recent feature titled “The Most Desired Destinations of 2026”, City Magazine placed Phu Quoc fourth in the Top 10 most-booked destinations for January, based on an analysis of global search and booking data from Expedia. The ranking highlights destinations that are not only aspirational, but also chosen in real travel decisions, offering a clear snapshot of shifting travel preferences across Eastern Europe.

According to City Magazine, travel in 2026 is no longer measured by geographic distance, but by the emotional value a destination delivers. Eastern European travelers, the magazine notes, are increasingly seeking places that offer tranquility, space, and genuine rest, rather than destinations designed primarily for social media imagery. This shift is also reflected in longer stays, earlier planning cycles, and a preference for destinations that balance nature, relaxation, and a well-developed tourism ecosystem.

Within this context, Phu Quoc has emerged as a compelling choice. Describing the island, City Magazine writes that Phu Quoc represents a distinct slice of Vietnam, one that quickly evokes affection from the first visit. “Where days start with the sea looking like a filter and end with sunsets that convince you that life without rushing is a perfectly legitimate plan” the magazine notes.

The island’s strongest appeal lies in its natural foundation, particularly its beaches. From the powdery white sands of Sao Beach and Kem Beach to secluded bays with turquoise waters, Phu Quoc stands out as a classic Southeast Asian island destination. Complementing its coastline is a well-preserved forest and marine ecosystem, with primary forests, hiking trails, and unspoiled landscapes that allow visitors to combine leisure with exploration in a setting that still feels authentic and untouched.

Built upon this natural backdrop, Phu Quoc offers a complete tropical experience without demanding excessive effort from travelers. Accommodation, transport, and visitor services have developed in sync, ensuring comfort while preserving the island’s local life and natural character. At the same time, the emergence of high-end resorts and large-scale entertainment offerings is shaping a more comprehensive resort destination. Highlights include the world’s longest three-wire cable car connecting to Hon Thom Island, as well as a growing cluster of nighttime entertainment and cultural experiences in the southern part of the island, particularly around Sunset Town.

The growing attention from European media coincides with a sharp rise in arrivals from Eastern Europe. Since late 2025, Phu Quoc has welcomed direct charter flights from Romania and Moldova, operating on the Bucharest–Phu Quoc and Chisinau–Phu Quoc routes. These direct connections significantly shorten travel time and eliminate the need for transit stops, making the island more accessible than ever for travelers from the region.

Agoda data further underscores this trend. Following Vietnam’s new visa exemption policy, which came into effect on August 15, 2025, accommodation searches from Eastern European markets rose by 59 percent. Phu Quoc alone recorded a year-on-year increase of 113 percent, highlighting its rapidly growing visibility and appeal across this emerging source market.

From a market perspective, Phu Quoc’s repeated appearances in leading destination lists for 2026 signal more than short-term popularity. They reflect the island’s steady expansion into new international markets, particularly Eastern Europe, supported by improved air connectivity, visa facilitation, and a maturing tourism ecosystem. As City Magazine concludes, “If you want a tropical getaway where the sea is the main star, but at the same time has enough of a “Vietnam vibe” to feel like you’ve really traveled somewhere, Phu Quoc is a very serious candidate for your next passport stamp.”