US Media Declares Vietnam's Phu Quoc the 'Hawaii of Asia'

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Travel Off Path, a prominent U.S. travel site, has praised Phu Quoc in Vietnam's southern province of An Giang as an emerging "Asian star." The site highlighted its breathtaking scenery and unique experiences that set it apart from other Vietnamese destinations. Known for its pristine beaches and affordable luxury, Phu Quoc has been dubbed "The Hawaii of Asia."

Previously characterized by images of rice paddies and bustling streets, Vietnam is now gaining recognition for its beach destinations, with Phu Quoc leading the way. The island's picturesque landscapes and tourist-friendly atmosphere contribute to its growing popularity. Despite comparisons to Hawaii, Phu Quoc remains a more budget-friendly option, featuring attractions like the world’s longest 3-wire cable car and exquisite local cuisine.

The island has earned acclaim for its natural beauty, with beaches such as Sao Beach and Kem Beach being notable highlights. These locations offer stunning white sands and clear waters, attracting both tourists and premium resorts. Phu Quoc's favorable visa policy further enhances its appeal, allowing tourists from all over the world to visit visa-free for 30 days.

Phu Quoc's tourism infrastructure is expanding, with the introduction of Sun PhuQuoc Airways. The airline has begun operations, planning new routes to accommodate the anticipated rise in tourism by 2026. The island has already surpassed its annual tourist target, welcoming 7.6 million visitors, including 1.6 million international tourists in the first 11 months of this year—a 35% increase from the previous year, reported VN Express.

Key Takeaways

• Phu Quoc is hailed as "The Hawaii of Asia" by a U.S. travel site.
• The island offers stunning beaches and affordable luxury experiences.
• Tourist numbers are rising, boosted by favorable visa policies and new airline routes.

Click here for more Vietnam stories

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-12-30