by DUONG NAM HOANG 21/01/2026, 10:32

Singapore newspaper: “Phu Quoc has all the mak­ings of an ideal week­end escape”

Phu Quoc has recently been named by The Straits Times – one of Singapore’s most reputable daily newspapers – among the Top 7 up-and-coming travel hotspots worth a visit in 2026, becoming the only Vietnamese destination on the list and ranking fourth, alongside notable destinations around the world.

According to The Straits Times, the list of “Top 7 up-and-coming travel hotspots worth a visit in 2026” focuses on destinations that are still relatively uncrowded yet meet the key criteria travellers care about most: easy access, reasonable costs, and diverse experiences. In that context, Phu Quoc stands out as an ideal choice for spring getaways or short leisure breaks.

Phu Quoc is renowned for its beautiful beaches and favourable climate, making it an ideal holiday destination (Photo: Fabl Belek)

Located off the southwestern coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc covers an area of around 574 square kilometres – roughly four-fifths the size of Singapore – offering ample space for a wide range of entertainment, dining, and resort developments while still preserving its natural beauty and local character. The Straits Times notes: “The island of Phu Quoc has all the mak­ings of an ideal week­end escape.”

The Singapore daily describes Phu Quoc as a destination of layered experiences, where visitors can easily strike a balance between relaxation, entertainment, and exploration. In the south of the island, the Sun Paradise Land tourism ecosystem has been thoughtfully developed, featuring pristine turquoise beaches, theme parks, and Sunset Town – a visually striking destination known for its colourful European-style architecture, creating a distinctive Mediterranean atmosphere in the tropics.

In particular, The Straits Times highlights the Kiss of the Sea multimedia show at Sunset Town, which holds a Guinness World Record for the largest outdoor theatre with water projection and seating capacity. The show leaves a strong impression thanks to its immersive storytelling, brought to life through a rich combination of fire, water, light, music, and dazzling fireworks, elevating Phu Quoc’s status as a world-class destination.

The Kiss of the Sea show and its spectacular fireworks finale have defined Phu Quoc’s reputation

Beyond its signature attractions, travellers seeking local culture are encouraged to explore the Duong Dong area. Here, visitors can discover traditional fish sauce factories, pepper farms, and bustling local markets filled with fresh seafood and agricultural produce. Phu Quoc’s cuisine is also highlighted as a major draw, with signature dishes made from fresh seafood such as bun quay and steamed crab served at seaside eateries.

Phu Quoc’s growing appeal is also reflected in travel search data. According to Skyscanner, searches for Phu Quoc by users in Singapore surged by 184% year-on-year, placing the island second on the list of trending destinations for 2026, just behind Guiyang (China). This figure is expected to rise further as, from the second quarter of 2026, Sun PhuQuoc Airways – an airline bearing the island’s name – is set to launch direct flights connecting Phu Quoc with Singapore and other destinations, positioning the island as a new regional aviation hub.

With its strategic location, natural landscapes, distinctive experiences, and increasingly convenient air connectivity, The Straits Times observes that Phu Quoc is steadily establishing itself as one of Asia’s most compelling emerging destinations, not only for Singaporean travellers, but also on the global tourism map in 2026.