Recently, the prestigious travel magazine Travel+Leisure ranked Phú Quốc, Vietnam, as the second-best island in the world for 2024, following the Maldives and surpassing famous destinations like Bali and Phuket. This recognition highlights Phú Quốc as the “biggest surprise” of this year’s awards. In its annual World's Best Awards, Travel+Leisure compiles a list based on the opinions of global readers to evaluate the best cities, islands, resorts, hotels, airlines, and cruise ships worldwide. The magazine noted, “While the top three winners include well-known spots like the Maldives (No. 1) and Bali (No. 3), Phú Quốc, an under-the-radar Vietnamese island, has made a remarkable entry at No. 2.”A Hidden Gem of Natural BeautyLocated off Vietnam’s west coast, Phú Quốc is rapidly emerging as a sought-after travel destination. Unlike many beaches in Southeast Asia that are heavily commercialized, Phú Quốc has preserved its pristine charm, making it a serene getaway. Visitors can indulge in luxury accommodations equipped with top-tier amenities and private pools while enjoying the island's natural beauty. Adding to its accolades, New World Phu Quoc Resort, a project by Sun Group, was honored among the top 100 best resorts in the world. Nestled along the stunning Bãi Kem beach, the resort offers breathtaking ocean views, lush gardens, and exquisite villas, making it a tranquil retreat for travelers. Increasing Global AppealPhú Quốc's appeal extends beyond its recognition in international rankings. A significant uptick in flight frequency to the island confirms its allure among global tourists. In the first half of 2024, Phú Quốc welcomed 1,947 international flights, a 186% increase from the same period in 2023. New direct flights from Korean Air, Jin Air, and StarLux have made the island more accessible to international visitors. What sets Phú Quốc apart is its incredible natural environment, characterized by a mild climate, year-round sunshine, rolling mountains, and extensive coastlines stretching 150 km with 28 islands. Renowned beaches like Bãi Kem and Bãi Sao, with their pristine white sand, have garnered international recognition. The island also houses Phú Quốc National Park and Phú Quốc Marine Reserve, which encompass over two-thirds of the island’s natural area and are part of the Kiên Giang Biosphere Reserve.A Hub of Luxury and EntertainmentPhú Quốc has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a serene escape into a vibrant tourist hotspot. Major investments in tourism infrastructure have turned it into a paradise for relaxation and entertainment, attracting visitors day and night. The island boasts a diverse array of accommodations featuring renowned international hotel brands. The southern part of Phú Quốc alone is home to five resorts managed by leading brands like Marriott, Accor, Rosewood, and Hilton.Sun Group's innovative collaborations with top brands and architects have enhanced Phú Quốc's allure, establishing new standards for the island's hospitality industry. Phú Quốc also offers unmatched entertainment complexes, including Sunset Town, which boasts the largest investment in Vietnam at VNĐ4 trillion. Highlights of this entertainment hub include the Kiss Bridge, recognized by CNN, the Kiss of the Sea multimedia show, Vui Phết—Vietnam's first seaside night market, and the À Ơi Vietnamese puppet theatre. Visitors can easily access Hòn Thơm Island via the world’s longest three-wire sea cable car, leading to the joyous Sun World Hon Thom. A Bright Future AheadCurrently, Phú Quốc is the only island in Vietnam offering visa-free entry for visitors for stays of up to 30 days. Experts predict that the island could welcome up to 14.6 million visitors in 2024, positioning itself as a direct competitor to major Asian tourist hubs like Phuket and Bali.Phú Quốc's ongoing achievements in international rankings, especially its remarkable placement in Travel+Leisure’s prestigious list, underscore the island’s rising popularity among global travelers. This recognition not only highlights its appeal but also signals a promising future for Vietnam's marine tourism industry.