Frequently asked questions

In the case where guests wish to travel to other localities after arriving on Phu Quoc island, the immigration management agency will consider issuing visas at Phu Quoc island; if guests wish to stay on Phu Quoc island for more than 30 days, the immigration management agency will consider extending the temporary residence permit.

Crew members carrying valid foreign seafarer's books or seafarer's passports are allowed to enter and stay on Phu Quoc island during the time their vessel is anchored at Phu Quoc island.

Foreigners entering Vietnam through Phu Quoc International Border Gate shall be granted a temporary residence certificate by the immigration management agency at the border gate with a temporary residence period appropriate to the visa exemption period; foreigners legally residing in Vietnam visiting Phu Quoc island do not need to obtain a temporary residence certificate, but only need to comply with current regulations regarding temporary residence reporting.

Foreigners requesting extension of temporary residence, changing the registered purpose of temporary residence, issuance, supplementation, amendment of visas, issuance of temporary residence cards, permanent residence shall do so through agencies, organizations, individuals or directly by procedures with the immigration management agency of Phu Quoc Police.

Firstly, it's best to check out reviews and feedback from previous travelers about tours offered by local travel companies. Platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com usually provide detailed information and reviews on tour experiences.

Afterward, it's a good idea to thoroughly research the tours and leisure activities available in Phu Quoc. Tours often include island sightseeing, visiting to popular attractions like Suoi Tranh and Sao Beach, as well as activities such as snorkeling, fishing, or tours of traditional fish sauce factories.

Once you've chosen a suitable tour, you can either reach out directly to travel companies or book through reputable travel websites like Traveloka, Agoda, Klook, Trip.com, and others. Before confirming your booking, it's important to carefully review the terms and conditions, as well as check if the tour includes the services you require. This will help ensure you have an exceptional and memorable travel experience in Phu Quoc.

Here are some important tips to ensure safety and a fulfilling experience:
- Opt for a reputable and safe location for your activities.
- Inspect your equipment thoroughly before starting, ensuring it functions properly and safely.
Stay informed about weather forecasts and sea conditions, avoiding unfavorable conditions for diving or snorkeling.
- Use the appropriate protective gear, including life jackets, diving masks, and snorkels.
- Follow the guidance provided by instructors or guides, particularly regarding safety protocols and environmental guidelines.
- Avoid touching marine life or coral reefs to safeguard both yourself and the delicate underwater ecosystem.
- Keep a safe distance from shipwrecks, coral reefs, and other submerged structures to prevent accidents.
- Always dive or snorkel with a partner for added safety and support.
- Monitor your energy levels and time your activities to prevent fatigue or potentially hazardous situations.

Here are some top dining spots and local dishes to savor when you're in Phu Quoc:

- Draft Beer Kem Beach Restaurant and Draft Beer Sunset Town Restaurant: Two restaurants with million-dollar views are famous for their premium fresh beer and diverse dining offerings.
- The Gangs Restaurant: Travelers can enjoy delightful fresh cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
- Com Nieu Viet Restaurant: Travelers can delight in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, crafted with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.
- Crab House Restaurant: Tourists have the opportunity to taste a wide array of dishes prepared from Phu Quoc's sea crabs
- Bun Ken Restaurant: Known for "Bun Ken" - a traditional dish of the Phu Quoc locals.
- Bun Quay Kien Xay Restaurant, with several branches in Duong Dong, serves dishes infused with the rich flavors of Phu Quoc's seas.
- Huong Bien Seafood Restaurant: Well-known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes and the aromatic Phu Quoc fish sauce.

Your bespoke itinerary will be finely crafted to suit your stay in Phu Quoc. Begin your journey by indulging in the allure of the island's picturesque beaches, including Sao Beach, Kem Beach, Sunset Beach, Bai Dai Beach, and Bai Truong Beach. Immerse yourself in relaxation, take a dip in the crystalline waters, and bask in the splendor of the ocean vistas.

Phu Quoc is renowned for its array of water sports activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, kiteboarding, and fishing. Popular diving spots are found on the small islands to the south of the An Thoi archipelago, such as Hon Tam, Hon Mong Tay, and Hon Son Ong. These areas offer opportunities to explore the vibrant and diverse marine ecosystems.

Nested in the North of Pearl Island, Phu Quoc National Park offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers with its enchanting network of streams. Here, you can embark on hikes, mountain climbs, or guided exploration tours to immerse yourself in the lush and captivating natural landscapes.

Last but not least, remember to treat yourself to Phu Quoc's specialties, including fresh seafood delicacies, traditional fish sauce, and unique local dishes. Whether you dive into culinary adventures or explore the VUI - Fest Bazaar beachside night market and the Duong Dong night market, experiencing the island's distinct flavors will make for a memorable and enjoyable vacation.

You'll need to bring your passport, visa/entry permit (for international visitors), or national ID card (for Vietnamese citizens), along with your electronic flight or train tickets.

Additionally, remember to pack your medical insurance card or a list of emergency contact numbers. Carry sufficient cash and your ATM/credit cards for convenient payment of any additional expenses.  It is recommended to store information about hotel reservations or other accommodations, as well as travel insurance details if applicable, in your phone.

If you're a foreigner, make sure to have the contact details of your country's embassy or consulate in Vietnam readily available for emergency situations. Ensure all these documents are prepared before starting your journey to avoid any possible complications.

Phu Quoc enjoys consistently warm and sunny weather, with temperatures averaging around 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year. As such, it offers favorable conditions for visiting at any time. However, the best time to explore Phu Quoc is from October to April. This period marks the dry season in the South, characterized by minimal rainfall, calm seas, gentle waves, and plenty of warm sunshine, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

From May to September is the rainy season, but Phu Quoc still sees high tourist numbers due to being in the summer vacation period. October also presents itself as a transitional period with less rainfall, offering another suitable option for travel. It's advisable to check the weather forecast to avoid the heavy rainy days, which could affect your experience on the island.

For convenience in travelling and getting around Phu Quoc Island, it's advisable to consider booking hotels in the following areas:

- Duong Dong: Serving as the island's main tourism hub, Duong Dong offers lavish amenities and tourist services, as well as close proximity to attractions and dining establishments. Choosing to stay in this area ensures easy access to public transportation and other conveniences.

-An Thoi: In this area, you can book hotels either in the Kem Beach or Sunset Town to immerse yourself in nature and explore the abundant entertainment options available in this vibrant tourist hotspot.

- VinWonder Area: The northern part of the island is famed for its wealth of upscale 5-star resorts, offering an ideal option for those in search of a luxurious and indulgent escape. Moreover, this area boasts close proximity to the VinWonder amusement park, ensuring fast access and time-saving convenience.

- Bai Truong Beach: Located in the southwest of the island, this area is characterized by numerous elegant hotels, resorts, and dining venues, providing travelers with a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.

- Ganh Dau: Situated in the north of the island, Ganh Dau offers a serene environment with picturesque natural landscapes and fewer crowds compared to other areas. If you're looking for a peaceful atmosphere and a close connection to nature, Ganh Dau could be an ideal place.

If you're looking to buy gifts or local specialties in Phu Quoc, there are several places you can check out:

- Vui-Fest Bazaar: As the first beachside night market in Vietnam, visitors can leisurely browse for souvenirs while enjoying entertaining activities such as street performances and live music shows.

- Phu Quoc Night Market: Recognized as a popular destination for tourists, this bustling market offers a wide selection of local products, ranging from fish sauce and honey to sim wine, snacks, and artisanal seashell jewelry.

- Phu Quoc is renowned for its fish sauce, available for purchase at specialized shops throughout the island. Phu Quoc fish sauce is widely regarded as one of the best and most famous sauces in the country.

- Local Stores and Markets: Explore the island's local markets and small shops to unearth unique Phu Quoc specialties such as dried jackfruit, cashews, or natural cosmetics made from coconut oil.

- Gift Shops: In the main tourist areas across the island, you'll also find gift shops offering local items such as Phu Quoc-themed printed shirts, seashell jewelry, fish sauce-derived products, and more.

In Phu Quoc, visitors can discover various significant cultural and historical sites, such as:

- Phu Quoc Prison: This site preserves the somber memories of the past, especially regarding political prisoners. Through the plenty of exhibits, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the struggle for freedom and independence of the Vietnamese people.

- Ho Quoc Pagoda: Perched on a small hill, this temple serves as both a spiritual site for Buddhist practitioners and a peaceful haven, boasting unique architecture and a tranquil ambiance. Additionally, it preserves numerous precious historical relics.

- Dinh Cau: Positioned on the northwest coast of the island, Dinh Cau was once the workplace of French officials in the past and later functioned as a Vietnamese sea observation post. Visitors can take in breathtaking ocean vistas here and learn more about Phu Quoc's strong bond with the sea.

- Hai Dang Tomb: This tomb bears historical importance in the French legacy on the island, encapsulating memories of Phu Quoc's past. Visitors can explore the French influence on the development of Pearl Island.

When considering hotel bookings in Phu Quoc through online platforms, you can rely on reputable sites like Booking.com, Agoda, Tripadvisor, Traveloka, and Airbnb. These platforms provide a wide array of accommodation choices, including hotels and serviced apartments, along with attractive deals and promotions.

Before finalizing your reservation, it's recommended to thoroughly review feedback from previous guests to ensure the accommodation meets your specific needs and preferences.

The tradition of making fish sauce in Phu Quoc dates back over 200 years. During that time, islanders primarily relied on two main livelihoods: fishing and hunting. Some coastal residents even knew how to harvest timber from the forest to construct small, rudimentary boats for fishing, serving to their daily meals. With an abundance of catches, more than they could consume, people began considering methods for preservation. At first, they used sea salt to marinate fish in baskets and ceramic jars for long-term storage. Over time, the fish marinated in these containers emitted a delightful aroma, sparking the idea of producing fish sauce. Initially crafted in small ceramic jars, gradually evolving into larger wooden barrels, the art of making Phu Quoc fish sauce took shape and developed for centuries.

Explore the world of Phu Quoc fish sauce at renowned distilleries, ensuring top-notch quality. Here are some famous brands:

- Thinh Phat Phu Quoc Fish Sauce: 30th Street, Ward 1, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc.
- Khai Hoan Phu Quoc Fish Sauce: 11 Hung Vuong Bridge, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc.
- Phung Hung Phu Quoc Fish Sauce: Nguyen Van Cu Street, Ward 4, An Thoi, Phu Quoc (near Phu Quoc Prison).

In the southern part of the island, An Thoi is increasingly thriving and bustling. A must-visit spot during your adventures here is the VUI-Fest Bazaar in Sunset Town. Open from 4 PM to midnight daily, this beachside night market features over 40 stalls offering a wide range of culinary delights, souvenirs, and more. It's not just a shopping destination; visitors can also enjoy live performances and captivating fireworks displays by the beach.

Within the night market compound lies the Vietnam Fruits&More supermarket, sprawling over 2,400 square meters, offering an extensive selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, premium frozen foods, and essential household goods. Apart from shopping, visitors can engage in regional fruit festivals, participate in food preparation, create their own beverages, make salad boxes, and explore product showcases for fruit orchards from different regions across the country.

When considering gifts from Phu Quoc, you might want to explore some of its renowned specialties: pearls, fish sauce, pepper, and sim wine.

1. Phu Quoc pearls come in various price ranges, depending on their quality, color, and size. Trusted vendors include Ngoc Hien and Quoc An pearl farms.

2. Phu Quoc fish sauce is renowned for its authentic and delightful flavor. You can find high-quality options from producers such as Phung Hung, Khai Hoan, Thinh Phat, and Hung Thinh.

3. Phu Quoc pepper boasts a spicy, aromatic taste with firm grains. Consider purchasing from pepper gardens in Khu Tuong or Suoi Da, both well-known locations.

4. Sim wine from Phu Quoc is traditionally made from rose myrtle and white sugar cane. This type of wine is known for aiding digestion and fatigue relief. Common places to buy sim wine include Sim Son and Bay Giao sim wine.

5. Seafood, often chosen as gifts, includes sea cucumbers, squid, and various types of dried fish. These products are readily available in numerous shops at the Dương Đông Night Market, with prices varying based on the season and size.

When shopping at Phu Quoc markets, feel free to negotiate for the best price on your purchases.

If you're looking to buy local specialties like Phu Quoc fish sauce or fresh/dried seafood as gifts, ensure to request careful packaging from the vendor to prevent damage, odor leakage, or issues when taking them on flights.

Always be cautious when shopping in market areas, keep your personal belongings tidy to avoid misplacing items.

In case of overcharging or other issues, don't hesitate to contact the Phu Quoc hotline for assistance: 19001720.

Banking services on Phu Quoc Island are primarily centered in Duong Dong town, offering comprehensive options such as cashing traveler's checks and exchanging foreign currencies. ATMs are compatible with most international cards like Mastercard, Visa, and Cirrus, ensuring easy cash withdrawal. Finding an ATM or currency exchange is increasingly effortless. Many top resorts on the island provide currency exchange services for major currencies, offering better rates than banks. Some resorts even feature ATMs within their premises. If you use a credit card, you needn't worry much about currency exchange, as many tourist establishments readily accept card payments.

Here are some banking addresses you may refer:

Vietcombank: 30/4 Street, Ward 1, Duong Dong
Western Union: 30/4 street, Duong Dong
Western Union Agent - Kien Long Bank: No. 4, KP 3, An Thoi
Agribank: No. 2, Ward 2, Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong
Mekong Housing Bank (Western Union Agent, accepts Mastercard & Visa): 174 Ward 5, Duong Dong.

The Duong Dong Market stands out as one of Phu Quoc's most beloved shopping destinations, attracting tourists with its diverse array of high-quality goods. It serves as a bustling hub for both locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of products from everyday essentials to souvenirs, including an impressive selection of dried seafood. Outside the market, a dedicated section showcases fresh seafood such as shrimp, crab, fish, scallops, and squid, along with renowned Phu Quoc specialties like fish sauce, pepper, and sim wine. Located in the heart of Duong Dong town, the market welcomes visitors from early morning till late afternoon.

Ham Ninh Market: Situated close to the Ham Ninh fishing village, this market serves as a primary source of goods for the locals. It specializes in providing fresh seafood, Phu Quoc specialties, and essential commodities. Particularly well-knowned for its fresh and dried sea crabs, the market offers these items at very affordable rates. If you're considering sea crabs as gifts, this market is a must-visit destination.

Phu Quoc Night Market (Bach Dang Night Market),  one of the most famous markets in Phu Quoc, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and budget-friendly, fresh seafood offerings. Located on Bach Dang Street in Ward 1, Duong Dong, this night market allures visitors with its unique cultural ambiance and wide variety of seafood dishes.

Ganh Dau Market: Situated in Suoi Cai hamlet, Ganh Dau commune, Ganh Dau Market is a must-visit shopping spot in Phu Quoc.  Known for its vibrant ambiance, relaxed trading style, and particularly its wide array of high-quality fresh seafood offerings.

From Duong Dong, you have several options:

Taxi: This is a favored and convenient mode of transportation in Phu Quoc. You can easily find taxi services in downtown Duong Dong to take you to other tourist destinations around the island.

Ride-hailing services: Phu Quoc has various ride-hailing companies in operation, such as Grab, Xanh SM, or Be. Make sure to download the apps beforehand for easy booking from your smartphone.

Electric bus: You can hop on a free electric bus from Duong Dong to North Island, the airport, or the Bai Truong area. Check the bus routes to select the one that suits your destination.

Phu Quoc provides a variety of car rental services and ride-hailing apps like Grab, Xanh SM, or Be. At the island's rental shops, you can easily rent a motorcycle for around 100,000 - 150,000 VND per day or a self-drive car for between 800,000 - 1,000,000 VND per day. Additionally, online ride-hailing apps provide a convenient option, allowing you to effortlessly book a ride through your mobile phone. Depending on your preferences and travel plans, you can select the most suitable mode of transportation for your trip to Phu Quoc.

To travel from Phu Quoc Airport to your hotel or accommodation, you have several transportation options:

Taxi: Taxis are the most convenient and popular choice. You can find taxis waiting outside the airport terminal. It's recommended to agree on the fare before getting in to avoid any inconvenience.

Pre-booked shuttle: You can arrange for a shuttle service through various companies or app-based motorbike transport services. This ensures a pre-arranged pickup and avoids waiting or uncertainty about availability.

Hotel shuttle service: Many hotels and resorts offer shuttle services from the airport. You can contact your hotel in advance to arrange for pickup.

Car rental service: If you prefer to explore Phu Quoc on your own, you can rent a motorcycle or car at the airport. Car rental counters are usually available in the arrival area.

Bus: There's a bus service from the airport to Duong Dong town center and other areas on the island. While bus rides are free, reaching the bus stop may be a bit inconvenient, and the schedule may not be as flexible as other options.

Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike is a popular and practical choice for reaching beaches located away from the city center. You can find rental shops in Duong Dong town center or nearby areas.

Car Rental: For those seeking comfort and convenience, renting a car is an excellent option. You can choose between self-driving or chauffeur-driven options.

Taxi or Grab: While slightly more expensive than motorbike rentals, taxis or Grab rides offer convenience, especially if you prefer a comfortable and quick journey to explore remote beaches.

Motorbike Taxi: For beaches not too far from the city center, hiring a motorbike taxi (xe om) provides a flexible and budget-friendly transportation option.

Regardless of which transportation mode you select, venturing to beaches far from the city center promises a unique and enjoyable experience on Phu Quoc Island.

Airplane: When planning a trip to Phu Quoc, consider booking your flights through official apps or websites at least 2 months in advance or during promotional sales events. This strategy allows you to maximize cost savings while ensuring efficient and convenient travel. Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air provide direct flights to Phu Quoc from Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Ferry/Boat: There are two primary ports for ferry/boat travel to Phu Quoc Island: Rach Gia and Ha Tien. This transportation option is well-suited for passengers traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or provinces in the Southern region, offering highly affordable fares.

Here are some hospitals/medical centers you can refer to:

- Phu Quoc General Hospital, also known as Phu Quoc Medical Center. Address: No 128, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City. Phone: 02973.846972.
- Saigon Phu Quoc General Clinic. Address: 40-41c Resettlement Area, Ward 10, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc. Phone: 1900 3315.
- 30/4 Phu Quoc General Clinic. Address: 140, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City.
- SOS Phu Quoc General Clinic and Vaccination Center. Address: 269, 271, 273 Nguyen Trung Truc Street, Ward 5, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc City. Phone: 02973 8515 000 – 0918 94 5555.
- Saigon - Phu Quoc General Clinic (An Thoi Branch). Address: S259-S354, Sun Grand City Urban Area, An Thoi, Phu Quoc City. Phone: 1900 3315.

Should tourists encounter scams or any other difficulties, please call the hotline number 19001720. The authorities in Phu Quoc City will provide comprehensive and immediate assistance.

According to the recently introduced Code of Conduct for Civilized Tourism in Phu Quoc in early 2024, tourists are required to adhere to certain guidelines. This includes queuing orderly when using services or engaging in public activities, having good manners while dining, controlling alcohol consumption, refraining from giving gifts or money to children and beggars, among other regulations.

Dress appropriately when visiting places of religious worship, war memorials, or traditional festivals; refrain from intentionally filming or taking photos in restricted areas, and avoid making disrespectful poses when photographing in sacred locations.

Dispose of trash properly, use restroom facilities responsibly, and smoke only in designated zones. Refrain from carving or drawing on walls, stone surfaces, trees, or architectural features. Avoid picking flowers, breaking branches, trampling on grass, or teasing animals.

To activate 5G mobile network services upon arrival in Phu Quoc, follow these steps:

1. Purchase a 5G SIM card: Firstly, acquire a 5G-enabled SIM card from one of the network providers in Phu Quoc, available at SIM card shops or carrier outlets like Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone, and local providers.

2. Insert the SIM card: Once obtained, insert the SIM card into your mobile phone following the instructions provided by the carrier or on the SIM card packaging.

3. Top up your account: Add credit to your SIM card by purchasing top-up cards or utilizing other supported top-up methods.

4. Activate the 5G service: Activate the 5G service for your SIM card by contacting the carrier's hotline or following activation steps provided.

5. Network setup: Configure your phone's network settings to enable the service, either through your phone's settings or by following instructions from the carrier.

Apart from using a phone SIM card, tourists can access the internet in Phu Quoc through the following means:

Free WiFi connections: Many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public areas in Phu Quoc offer complimentary WiFi access for customers. Tourists can take advantage of these access points for convenient internet browsing while saving on mobile data expenses.

Pocket WiFi devices: Some shops in Phu Quoc rent out pocket WiFi devices, providing internet connectivity for tourists. This allows tourists to carry the portable WiFi device with them during their travels, ensuring internet access wherever they go.

Public internet centers: Several public service centers or internet cafes in Phu Quoc provide internet access services at affordable rates or hourly charges. This option is suitable for tourists who prefer to access the internet without carrying their own devices.

International mobile network services: Tourists with international mobile network services from their home countries can utilize these services in Phu Quoc. However, it's essential to note that this may involve international roaming charges, so tourists should carefully consider the costs and limitations associated with using such services.

When using mobile network and WiFi services in Phu Quoc, travelers should be aware of the following to avoid unexpected charges:

- Check your data plan: Before using, thoroughly review your mobile network package to understand conditions regarding data usage, calls, and messages. Make sure you understand the associated costs of offline service usage.

- Utilize free WiFi connections: Whenever possible, take advantage of free WiFi access points at hotels, restaurants, or cafes instead of using mobile network services. This helps save on mobile data costs.

- Use data-saving apps and websites: Opt for apps and websites that are data-efficient, or configure data-saving settings on your phone to minimize data consumption.

Following these tips will help you avoid unexpected charges when using mobile network and WiFi services in Phu Quoc.

To purchase a mobile phone SIM card in Phu Quoc (for foreign tourists), you can follow these steps:

Find a SIM card shop: You can buy SIM cards at booths located either within the airport or in the Duong Dong downtown.

Choose a network provider: Depending on your usage needs and coverage information, you can select from popular network providers such as Viettel, Mobifone, or Vinaphone.

Request a tourist SIM card: Recently, network providers in Vietnam have introduced tourist SIM card packages designed for international travelers. You can request a tourist SIM card with a short validity period and service plans tailored to your needs.

Complete registration procedures: To purchase a SIM card, you'll need to provide necessary personal information such as your passport or identification documents for registration. Subsequently, the store staff will assist you in completing the SIM card purchase process.

Top up and activate the SIM card: After purchasing the SIM card, you'll need to add credit to your account and activate the SIM card as per the instructions provided by the store staff or on the SIM card packaging. Then, you can use the SIM card for making calls, sending messages, and accessing the internet as needed.

In Phu Quoc, popular network providers like Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone typically cater to international travelers by offering mobile phone SIM cards. Additionally, there may be local network providers that extend SIM card services to foreign tourists. However, accessibility to these services could vary depending on the coverage area of each network and specific circumstances during your time in Phu Quoc. For more detailed information, it's recommended to check with mobile phone SIM card shops or service centers of each network when you arrive on the island.