Phu Quoc

Today, after a bleary eyed start and two flights, we’ve traveled from one end of Vietnam to the other. We’re on the island of Phu Quoc, south of the Mekong Delta, over near Cambodia. After the amount of to-ing and fro-ing we’ve done over the last few days, one of the most exciting things about being here is the prospect of being in the one place for more than one night.

Phu Quoc is known for the finer things in life – beautiful unspoilt beaches, high quality salt water pearls and fish sauce. Chances are if you go into your local Asian grocer and pick up a bottle of fish sauce (or nuoc mam as it’s known here), it’ll be from Phu Quoc. Given that every Vietnamese meal we’ve had during our time here has been accompanied by a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, it makes sense that its production can help support an island such as this one.

Tourism is where Phu Quoc is headed though. Getting off the plane (where a woman stood on the tarmac wearing a traditional conical hat and a sash that said “Welcome to Phu Quoc”) and entering the airport you’re surrounded by posters and counters promoting the various resorts. Everyone on our plane seemed to split up and go to a different one, but it gets pretty packed out here through December/January.

We’re staying at Mango Bay, an enviro-friendly resort made up of beachside bungalows. It’s the first time I’ve ever been to somewhere like this, but if you came up with a wishlist of things you want in a resort, this place would tick all the boxes. Beaches – a stone’s throw from our door. Deck chairs – two on our verandah, and more down on the beach under bamboo shelters. Views – the sun sets over the water here (admittedly it was a little too cloudy to see it today, but we’ve got plenty of time). Good food – a choice of meals at the restaurant or from the bar, and so far everything we’ve eaten has been fantastic, especially some perfectly grilled squid. Holly’s main requirement was beachside cocktails – they’ve been going down a little too easily already, particularly during happy hour.

Our plans for the next few days consist of not much more than reading, swimming (me), facials (Holly), and working our way through the various menus. And maybe even a visit to the fish sauce factory.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *