The latest addition to its connectivity is direct flights from Singapore, positioning Phu Quoc as an ideal weekend getaway for tourists and expatriates in nearby regions such as Thailand and Singapore.  

Starting December 20, 2024, Scoot, the low-cost carrier of Singapore Airlines, will operate direct flights from Singapore to Phu Quoc with three round trips per week, according to The Straits Times.  

The flights will depart Singapore at 12:35 PM (local time) and land in Phu Quoc at 1:20 PM. Return flights will leave Phu Quoc at 1:55 PM, arriving in Singapore at 4:50 PM. Beginning January 2025, Scoot plans to expand to five weekly round-trip flights.  

Phu Quoc: A rising star in global travel  

Phu Quoc, celebrated for its pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, has garnered accolades from prestigious travel outlets. Travel + Leisure ranked it as the second most beautiful island globally, only behind the Maldives. Similarly, Condé Nast Traveler has honored Phu Quoc as one of the world's top islands for three consecutive years, with rising scores each year.  

This growing recognition, coupled with direct flights from Singapore, is expected to enhance Phu Quoc’s appeal to both regional and international tourists. Singapore, a major global transit hub welcoming over 85 million visitors annually, serves as a gateway for travelers worldwide.  

As a visa-free island for all international tourists and with new direct flights from Singapore, Phu Quoc is poised to become a popular destination for expatriates and professionals from Europe and America residing in Singapore.

Phu Quoc’s strategic positioning and affordability make it a strong contender for weekend getaways among expatriates in Singapore, which is home to approximately 1.64 million expats. Comparatively, Bangkok, another regional hub, has only about 200,000 expats.  

With a short two-hour flight from Singapore, visitors can enjoy luxurious experiences in Phu Quoc at a fraction of the cost. Singapore’s average daily living expense of $95 USD per person significantly exceeds the budget-friendly offerings of Phu Quoc.  

What makes Phu Quoc unique?  

Phu Quoc offers visitors a blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. The island’s UNESCO-recognized Phu Quoc National Park is a sanctuary for rare wildlife. According to The Straits Times, Scoot’s decision to introduce flights to Phu Quoc was influenced by the island’s untouched beauty and vibrant attractions.  

October and November are considered ideal for launching new flights, as the island reaches its peak season with mild autumn and winter weather. Booking.com has named Phu Quoc one of Vietnam’s top five destinations for a romantic autumn.  

To capitalize on the year-end tourist season, Phu Quoc has introduced new attractions and entertainment to retain and engage visitors.  

Last year, Phu Quoc gained international attention with the unveiling of the Kiss Bridge, a unique "non-touching" bridge, and the Kiss of the Sea show at the world’s largest sea theater. This year, the island promises an even more festive atmosphere with the Symphony of the Sea show, which features extreme sports such as jetskiing and flyboarding, alongside traditional Vietnamese elements like festival flags and kite flutes.  

Other highlights include:  

- Kaya Indigenous Show and DJ performances on Hon Thom Island.  

- Activation shows at the new Sun Baravia Bistro.  

- A year-round beer festival and daily fireworks displays.  

For golf enthusiasts, Phu Quoc boasts the newly launched 18-hole Eschuri Vung Bau Golf Course, offering a rare "forest-to-sea" journey with picturesque sunset views.

Convenient and affordable travel  

Flights from Singapore to Phu Quoc are available for booking starting November 11, 2024, with one-way economy tickets priced at approximately $135 USD.  

“We hope to inspire more travelers to discover the diverse experiences our new destinations have to offer. We will continue to seek opportunities, expand our network, and connect our customers to new travel experiences,” said Leslie Thng, CEO of Scoot on The Strait Times.  

Phu Quoc, with its blend of natural beauty, unique attractions, and affordability, is set to become the preferred destination for expatriates and international tourists seeking a tropical retreat.  

PV