Phu Quoc’s Rising Appeal Challenges Maldives and Phuket
HANOI, Vietnam — Phu Quoc Island is emerging as a budget-friendly alternative to popular tourist destinations like the Maldives and Phuket, drawing increasing international attention.
In recent years, Phu Quoc has undergone a transformation from its earlier reputation as a ‘tourist trap’ to being recognized for its affordability. Following a period of criticism for overcharging, the island’s tourism strategy has shifted considerably by offering competitive prices that appeal to travelers.
Travel journalist Kaza Panzer recently reflected on her disappointing trip to the Maldives, where high costs and limited entertainment left her unsatisfied. Panzer, who paid over $350 for a flight from India to Malé, noted, ‘Paradise, when you are alone, is no longer paradise.’ The average cost for a week in the Maldives can exceed $2,457 per person, prompting tourists to reconsider their options.
Phu Quoc, often ranked as the second most beautiful island in the world by Travel + Leisure, is positioning itself as an affordable alternative. While nearby Phuket in Thailand has become costlier with reports of inadequate service quality, Phu Quoc offers similar beauty at a fraction of the price. A recent American tourist shared on a travel forum, ‘The hotel was fine, but I expected more variety. Additionally, transportation on the island was inconvenient and expensive.’
The steep rise in prices across the Maldives, Phuket, and Bali has caused tourists to seek out options like Phu Quoc, where they can enjoy lavish accommodations at reasonable rates. A report from Travel + Leisure highlighted that a three-day holiday in Phu Quoc could cost less than a weekend in Singapore, with prices for hotels averaging just $37 per night compared to $110 in Singapore.
South Korea’s KBS television network spotlighted Phu Quoc as a prime destination for South Korean travelers, conducting a comparison with Jeju Island. Many Korean tourists indicated that, despite higher airfare from Incheon, the overall costs for lodging and dining were significantly lower in Phu Quoc.
Lee Hyun Suk, a tourist from Busan, expressed his delight at the affordability of Phu Quoc, stating, ‘While a cup of coffee in Jeju costs nearly $7, I can have a full meal in Phu Quoc for just $3.5.’
Luxury options also abound in Phu Quoc, with beachfront resorts like New World Phu Quoc offering private pool villas starting around $100-120 per night. Moreover, the region features budget accommodations beginning as low as $19.6 per night for travelers looking for economical stays.
Beyond its stunning beaches, Phu Quoc captivates visitors with vibrant seafood markets and night bazaars, further enhancing its appeal. Thai journalist Thasaneya Ratwong recently lauded the island’s affordable dining, noting that seafood prices are significantly lower than in Thailand.
Experts in the travel industry are optimistic about Phu Quoc’s future. ‘Once infrastructure is fully developed, we will witness the rise of the ‘Hawaii of the East,’ said Hong Jung Min, CEO of Hanatour Vietnam.
Phu Quoc is on track to welcome 7 million visitors in 2025, including 1 million international tourists, as stated by Tran Minh Khoa, chairman of the municipal People’s Committee. With its combination of natural beauty and well-developed tourist facilities, Phu Quoc is solidifying its status as a premier destination.
