Travel + Leisure: Phu Quoc makes the list of 25 must-visit destinations in the world

Kien Giang – Phu Quoc, Vietnam's Pearl Island, has once again earned a spot in Travel + Leisure's list of top destinations to visit in 2025, solidifying its undeniable allure as an "emerging star" on the global travel map.

The renowned global travel magazine Travel + Leisure recently revealed its list of the "25 Most Inspiring Travel Destinations for 2025." The selected locations were chosen based on criteria such as pristine natural landscapes, uniqueness, and tourism development potential.

Kem Beach - Phu Quoc is one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. (Photo: Sun Group)

Phu Quoc has proudly become the sole representative of Vietnam on this prestigious list, alongside world-famous travel hotspots like Phuket (Thailand), Hawaii (USA), the Great Barrier Reef (Australia), Reykjavik (Iceland), and Machu Picchu (Peru).

Explaining why Phu Quoc was selected, Travel + Leisure writer Esha Dasgupta describes the island’s enchanting beauty as something that "melts the hearts of all visitors."

“Night markets, crystal-clear waters, abundant diving opportunities, fresh seafood, lush rainforests, and a rich animal ecosystem make up the island's charm,” Travel + Leisure praised Phu Quoc.

The Pristine Beauty of Bai Kem - Phu Quoc. (Photo: Sun Group)

It’s not just the natural beauty that draws visitors; iconic experiences have contributed to the island’s magnetism. Travel + Leisure recommends the experience of riding the world’s longest three-rope cable car to Hon Thom Island.

This isn't the first time Hon Thom Cable Car has received international acclaim. CNN has called it a fantastic experience in Phu Quoc, while the travel bible Lonely Planet considers it one of the island’s most worthwhile experiences.

The Hon Thom Cable Car in Phu Quoc stands out as one of the most unforgettable experiences on the Pearl Island. (Photo: Sun Group)

In addition to the Hon Thom Cable Car, the US magazine also suggests visiting Duong Dong Night Market or exploring the wild at Phu Quoc National Park.

Furthermore, Travel + Leisure highlights the best time to explore Phu Quoc as being from November to April of the following year. The island has now entered its most beautiful season, with a series of new experiences launching to welcome visitors at this time.

The Symphony of the Sea show at Sunset Town is a vibrant mix of jet ski performances, flyboards, and various fireworks displays. True to its name, Symphony of the Sea presents a rare water fireworks show that creates a blooming light garden on the water's surface with breathtaking visual effects.

This performance also strengthens Phú Quốc's reputation as the "fireworks island," as the island now hosts two fireworks shows every night, with the second show taking place at 10 PM at Sunset Town.

The Symphony of the Sea show, a dazzling display of colors, at Sunset Town. (Photo: Sun Group)

At Sunset Town, the festive atmosphere is more alive than ever with the 365-day beer festival, which officially launched in November at Sun Bavaria Bistro. With six varieties of Sun KraftBeer, unique European cuisine, music, and lively dances, visitors can expect “sleepless nights” in Phu Quoc.

In addition to these unique experiences, Travel + Leisure emphasizes another important factor contributing to Phu Quoc’s success: its exceptional visa policy. The 30-day visa exemption for all international tourists has made the island an even more attractive destination for travelers this holiday season.

Tourists Enjoy 30-Day Visa-Free Access to Phu Quoc. (Photo: Sun Group)

“If you don’t have a Vietnamese visa, you can still enjoy a 30-day visa exemption in Phu Quoc,” Travel + Leisure introduces. Furthermore, numerous direct flights from the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe are now available, making it easier for tourists to reach Phu Quoc than ever before.

This marks the second time Phu Quoc has been featured in Travel + Leisure’s list of must-visit destinations this year, following its recognition as the “Second Best Island in the World” in the World’s Best Awards. This recognition not only honors Phu Quoc but also serves as a source of pride for Vietnam’s tourism industry.

Phu Quoc continues to affirm its status as an unmissable destination, gaining increasing international attention and shining brightly on the global travel map./.