Unlocking Phu Quoc’s potential to become the “Hawaii of the East”

"Even beyond Las Vegas”

Recently, Phu Quoc became the focal point of the regional tourism industry, hosting over 70 representatives from renowned airlines, travel agencies, and online travel platforms during the famtrip titled "Journey to the Paradise Island."

The event brought together prominent names in online travel such as Trip.com, KKday, and Klook, alongside leading travel agencies and hotel brands like Pegas Touristik, Anex, Accor & Ennismore, and Rixos Hotels. Major airlines including Starlux, SCAT, Vietnam Airlines, and Thai Vietjet participated, further cementing Phú Quốc’s growing prominence on the regional tourism map.

Ms. Weichun Liu, CEO of KKday, shared her impressions of Phu Quoc’s rapid development:
"When I first visited in 2022, I was truly impressed by the Hon Thom over-sea cable car project. On my return this time, I find the island equipped with infrastructure and hotels and a variety of programs, performances, and night markets to attract international visitors."

A representative of a leading Asian e-commerce platform offering travel services described Phu Quoc as a destination with something for everyone:
"This island caters to luxury and upscale travellers, families, and even young people who enjoy lively parties. I think it’s a place you can revisit annually and always discover something new," said Ms. Liu.

"Even beyond Las Vegas," remarked Mr. Selcuk Iscimen, CEO of Dorak MICE, after experiencing the Kiss of the Sea show in southern Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc has been lauded as a destination that offers something for every kind of traveller. Beyond recreational activities, entertainment, and cuisine that capture the attention of industry experts, the island's accommodation infrastructure is a key point of interest for businesses.

Mr. Ben Chang, Vietnam Branch Manager of Starlux Airlines, shared his perspective, noting that he has visited Thailand’s Phuket and Koh Samui, which boast many upscale hotels. However, in Phu Quoc, the hotels are not only truly luxurious but also offer far more reasonable prices.
"This is a strong advantage that can attract tourists to Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy nature, experience premium services, explore museums, and engage in recreational activities," he stated.

Sustainable momentum to become a tourism magnet

While Phu Quoc boasts numerous strengths, international tourism businesses believe that addressing certain infrastructure, ecosystem, visa policy, and market development gaps is crucial for sustaining and enhancing the quality and quantity of foreign tourists.

"Phu Quoc needs to improve amenities for international visitors, such as hospitals, supermarkets, and public transportation. Beyond buses, services like Grab and GrabFood should also expand their coverage to make vacations more convenient," Mr. Ben Chang suggested.

Similarly, Mr. Hong Jung Min, Managing Director of Hanatour Vietnam, highlighted the need for further upgrades to Phu Quoc’s infrastructure.
"I believe that once development projects such as roads and tourist attractions are completed, we will witness this island becoming a true 'Hawaii of the East,'" he remarked.

A representative of South Korea’s largest travel agency suggested that the local tourism industry should focus on developing markets with regular commercial flights as a foundation, followed by exploiting charter flights during peak seasons.  

"This will help Phu Quoc become a sustainable market. Domestic markets and the South Korean market are prime examples," Mr. Hong explained.  

In addition to investing in infrastructure and tourism products, international businesses believe that visa policies play a particularly critical role in opening the doors for Phu Quoc to welcome more visitors.  

"Visa exemption is another factor that attracts international tourists to Phu Quoc, making travel easier for them. Beyond what Phu Quoc already has, increasing flight connectivity and expanding visa exemption policies are two truly important factors," Ms. Liu stated, suggesting that the island should broaden its visa policies to attract potential markets.