Phu Quoc

Situated in the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is the size of Singapore, but retains its laid back island feel thanks to 70% of the island being protected as a national park. Only 15 km south of Cambodia, both the Cambodians and Vietnamese have tried to stake a claim to this little slice of paradise, with its abundance of natural riches.

No longer the sleepy backwater it once was, Phu Quoc has gained a reputation for being a blissful beach escape for sun-worshipers and scuba divers. Tear yourself away from the golden sands and discover that Phu Quoc’s real highlights lie beneath the waves. The warm, calm seas make the island a snorkelling and diving paradise, as schools of tropical fish glide over pristine coral. PADI courses and scuba equipment are available for those who want to delve deeper into this marine haven.

You’ll need a motorbike or mountain bike to explore Phu Quoc National Park and its dense area of forest that covers the northern part of the island. The abundance of fauna and flora will have photographers snapping away, as the park is thought to be home to over 929 plant species.

After a day on the beach, Dinh Cao night market offers up the perfect and increasingly hard to find combination of delicious and affordable dining. Local vendors serve a delightful range of Vietnamese cuisine from fresh seafood to mouth-watering grills and delectable vegetarian dishes. Enjoy plates of steamed scallops and grilled squid whilst eyeing up the colourful displays of souvenirs offered by smiling locals.