This Southeast Asian island, recognized globally as a hidden paradise, combines untouched beauty, rich cultural experiences, and year-round tropical warmth. With international accolades and a reputation as Asia’s new “rising star,” Phu Quoc offers foreign visitors a chance to escape the cold and indulge in the warmth, relaxation, and culture that make it an unforgettable winter getaway.

A recent National Geographic study reveals that global warming is intensifying winter conditions, with colder temperatures and stronger blizzards prompting even more travelers to seek sunny destinations. As a result, tropical Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia are witnessing consistent growth in visitors during the winter months. Phu Quoc, in particular, has emerged as a prime destination, making its mark as one of the best islands in Asia.

Accordingly, the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards ranked eight out of Asia’s top ten islands from Southeast Asia, with exceptionally high scores above 90, awarded for aspects like service, scenery, beaches, cuisine, and hospitality. Among these is Phu Quoc, which has transformed from a “hidden gem” to an iconic travel destination.

In 2024, Travel + Leisure ranked it the second-best island in the world, just behind the Maldives, while Condé Nast Traveler named it one of the world’s best islands for the third consecutive year, dubbing it Asia’s new rising star.

A destination with easy access, ideal climate, luxurious yet affordable accommodations

Phu Quoc, though growing in popularity, is still relatively new compared to destinations like Bali or Koh Samui. This novelty offers travelers a more serene winter escape, free from Bali’s traffic and the bustling beach crowds of Phuket.

Direct flights from Europe to Phu Quoc are increasing, making the island more accessible for international tourists. New year-end flights include weekly routes from Poland (Lot Polish Airlines), Russia (Iraero Airlines), and the Czech Republic and Slovakia (World2Fly).

The island’s visa-friendly policies also simplify travel - Phu Quoc is one of the few islands worldwide where visitors can stay visa-free for up to 30 days. In addition, travelers from 13 countries, including Russia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Belarus, are granted visa exemptions for up to 45 days, ideal for extended winter vacations.

Phu Quoc’s peak travel season begins in late October and continues through May, offering pleasant temperatures around 28–30°C (82–86°F), little rainfall, calm seas, gentle waves, and warm sunshine. This weather is perfect for outdoor activities, from lounging on beautiful beaches like Sao Beach and Kem Beach to enjoying water sports such as beach volleyball and kayaking.

During winter, the southern beaches’ waters turn an emerald shade, offering crystal-clear views ideal for snorkeling among the vibrant coral reefs. The mild climate allows visitors to enjoy sunbathing without overheating and gives them easy access to explore the island’s lush marine ecosystems.

Phu Quoc offers Western visitors a luxurious yet affordable winter retreat, with a month’s stay in a 4- to 5-star hotel often costing less than living expenses back home. This affordability has made it a favored spot for Western digital nomads traveling through Southeast Asia.

Popular choices include Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay by Kem Beach, known for its discounts on long-term bookings, and the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, which offers a higher-end experience for two- or three-night getaways during an extended stay.

For budget-friendly options, travelers can opt for mini-hotels in Sunset Town or rent apartments at Sun Grand City Hillside Residence for around 600,000 VND (24 USD) per night or about 7,000,000 VND (275 USD) per month, inclusive of utilities.

Unique local experiences, endless adventures and unique attractions

While popular islands like Bali and Phuket attract European and US tourists with their vibrant cultures, Phu Quoc offers a unique window into Vietnamese life. Travelers can immerse themselves in local culture by visiting spiritual sites and participating in traditional activities like fishing, pearl farming, creating fish sauce, and touring pepper gardens.

Animal lovers will find the Phu Quoc Kennel a fascinating stop, where they can learn about the island’s distinctive dog breed, known for its intelligence and wild instincts. Entrance is just 50,000 VND (around 2 USD), supporting the preservation of this native breed.

Phu Quoc’s cultural scene also comes to life in Sunset Town, where visitors can enjoy performances at the À Ơi outdoor theater. Shows like Dear Vietnam (a water puppet show), Vietnamese Traditional Costume Night, and Symphony of the Sea (featuring jetski and flyboard performances) provide an authentic taste of Vietnam’s arts and culture, enhancing the island’s unforgettable experience for travelers.

Beyond the relaxing beach life, Phu Quoc offers an array of activities that visitors can enjoy throughout a longer stay, especially in the southern region. A must-see attraction is the Guinness World Record-holding three-wire cable car to Hon Thom Island, offering sweeping panoramic views of Phu Quoc’s sky and sea. For couples, the CNN-recognized “Kiss Bridge - a unique non-touch bridge - is an ideal spot to enjoy the stunning sunsets. Evening entertainment includes the “Kiss of the Sea” multimedia show and daily fireworks displays that add magic to every night on the island.

In Phu Quoc, “summer never sleeps” year-round, but it’s during winter that the island truly comes alive. Visitors can revel in the year-round beer festival at Sunset Town and taste Sun KraftBeer, brewed with water, barley, hops, and yeast to German standards for a refreshing experience distinct from industrial beers.

With its pristine beaches, unique cultural experiences, and rich local flavors, Phu Quoc is fast becoming a favorite winter-sun destination for Western tourists. So pack your swimsuits, sunscreen, and plane tickets to Phu Quoc, where an exciting and memorable winter escape awaits.

PV