Sunday, July 6, 2025
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s rising tourism gem, has once again caught the world’s attention—this time as one of the top islands in the Asia-Pacific region, according to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 Luxury Awards. Ranked third among ten elite destinations and the only Vietnamese island on the list, Phu Quoc is redefining Southeast Asia’s appeal with its blend of natural wonder, high-end hospitality, and visionary development.
A Tropical Haven Elevated to Global Fame
Once a tranquil island known mostly to local travelers and regional adventurers, Phu Quoc has evolved into a global icon of island luxury. While its turquoise waters and powdery beaches like Bai Kem and Bai Sao remain untouched in their beauty, the experience visitors now receive on the island has transformed completely.
From the moment tourists arrive, they are immersed in an island that merges nature with innovation. A series of record-setting attractions, including the world’s longest three-cable gondola system to Hon Thom Island and the iconic, non-touching Kiss Bridge, have redefined the island’s skyline and visitor journey. These features, paired with dazzling firework displays and the Guinness-recognized “Kiss of the Sea” night show, have made Phu Quoc a 24/7 destination—full of life, light, and luxury.
A Rapid Rise in Premium Tourism
The luxury travel segment in Phu Quoc has grown at an exceptional pace. In just a few years, the island has attracted over 45 international hotel brands, many of which cater to five-star and ultra-luxury clientele. Since 2016, when the first world-class resort opened, the island has steadily welcomed global hospitality giants including Hilton, Marriott, Accor, and Rosewood.
Between 2021 and 2023, the number of five-star hotels increased by 15%, an indicator of both demand and strategic planning. These properties offer private beaches, curated culinary experiences, wellness retreats, and culturally inspired design—factors that continue to attract affluent travelers seeking both comfort and authenticity.
Special Status Unlocks a New Era
On July 1, 2025, Phu Quoc marked a major milestone in its development by being officially recognized as a special administrative region within An Giang province, ushering in a new era of growth and strategic significance. This new designation is more than administrative—it represents a national commitment to transforming Phu Quoc into a key economic, tourism, and lifestyle hub in Southeast Asia.
The special zone framework enables streamlined investment policies, fewer regulatory hurdles, and faster execution of tourism and infrastructure projects. This bold move is expected to unlock the island’s full potential as not just a destination, but a launchpad for regional innovation and development.
APEC 2027: The World Comes to Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is setting the stage to welcome the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in 2027—an historic milestone that will place the island in the global spotlight as a strategic hub for economic dialogue and high-level international engagement.
To support this global moment, a massive expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport is underway. The new VIP terminal will cater specifically to high-level guests, while Sun PhuQuoc Airways is preparing to deliver tailored services for government officials and elite travelers. These enhancements will allow the island to match, if not surpass, regional hubs like Singapore in seamless luxury connectivity.
Hon Thom: The Next Frontier of Ultra-Luxury
Situated just south of Phu Quoc, Hon Thom Island is rapidly transforming into a premier destination for ultra-luxury living and high-end tourism. Groundbreaking projects include the debut of The Luxury Collection Hon Thom, Rixos Phu Quoc, and Ritz-Carlton Reserve—one of the most exclusive hospitality brands in the world, with only a handful of properties globally.
These resorts are designed not just for high-end travelers but for those seeking a truly transformative stay—complete with private villas, signature experiences, and extraordinary architectural designs. One standout project is the sail-shaped Aspira Tower, which is poised to become a new global landmark.
The Future is Now
Phu Quoc is no longer an emerging destination—it has emerged. Through strategic investment, international recognition, and visionary planning, the island has become a world-class getaway, seamlessly blending tropical beauty with high-end lifestyle. As it continues to climb the ranks of global luxury, Phu Quoc is proving itself as not only a place to visit—but a place to belong.
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