National Tourism Year 2023 “Binh Thuan”

The pristine beaches, picturesque natural landscapes, and simple, friendly people of Phu Quy Island have captivated countless tourists with its pure beauty. Perhaps that's why Phu Quy, this "rough gem," has received the highest number of searches on the Agoda travel platform this year, increasing by 180% compared to the same period last year.

The vibrant Pearl Island

According to local statistics, since the beginning of this year, Phu Quy has welcomed over 150,000 tourists (an increase of over 61,000 visitors compared to the same period last year), including more than 2,200 foreign tourists. This surge in attraction is largely due to the official opening of the Dau Giay – Phan Thiet and Phan Thiet – Vinh Hao expressways in early May 2023. Improved transportation infrastructure, coupled with its inherent natural beauty, has made Phu Quy an easy destination for travelers. Not only is onshore transportation convenient, but the Phan Thiet – Phu Quy route has also quickly attracted new investors. To date, six high-speed ferries operate stably and safely, with daily trips between Phu Quy and Phan Thiet and vice versa. This not only ensures timely passenger transport from the mainland to the island district but also allows tourists to choose convenient departure times, with a travel time of only about two hours. Meanwhile, the road transport capacity in the remote island area currently has more than 220 vehicles of various types, ensuring the transportation of goods and meeting the travel needs of residents and tourists in the district.

A view of Phu Quy Island. Photo: N. Lan

Despite facing many challenges, the strong recovery of the tourism industry in the province in general and on Phu Quoc Island in particular has led to the emergence and strong development of numerous guesthouses, resorts, and homestays on the island. These establishments offer clean rooms and affordable prices, earning positive reviews from most tourists. Currently, the entire district has 150 accommodation establishments with 650 rooms, the majority of which are homestays. Tourism services such as motorbike rentals, food and beverage services, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and scuba diving have also flourished, meeting the recreational needs of visitors. In particular, the friendliness and hospitality of the island's residents is a significant plus, leaving a lasting impression on visitors returning from the mainland.

Many well-invested homestays and resorts have sprung up.

Towards "Green Tourism"

In addition, the district organized vibrant tourism activities to celebrate the National Tourism Year "Binh Thuan – Green Convergence". Despite being an island district far from the mainland, the local authorities paid close attention to promoting and publicizing the destination. The district installed four large billboards promoting the 2023 National Tourism Year at four locations: the intersection leading to Phu Quy Port, in front of the District Military-Civilian Medical Center, in front of Long Hai Primary School, and along the Vo Van Kiet dual carriageway. Furthermore, 30 banners were erected along the Vo Van Kiet dual carriageway, adding a colorful touch to the route. Notably, Phu Quy tourism information was advertised on various social media platforms, attracting many tourists. The district also organized six public cultural events to promote the 2023 National Tourism Year. Significantly, this was the first year Phu Quy hosted a half-marathon around the island. This event attracted nearly 500 athletes from within and outside the district. Phu Quy also organized a fair showcasing local tourism products, attracting the attention of many organizations and businesses. This aimed to promote the image, landmarks, and people of Phu Quy to all parts of the country.

The first-ever half-marathon was held on Phu Quy Island. Photo: Q. Nhan

It is known that the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Binh Thuan province is choosing Phu Quy Island to develop "green tourism" products, linked with promoting joint efforts to protect the marine and island environment. The new generation of tourists are environmentally conscious, respectful, and responsible towards the environment, especially the marine and island tourism environment. Therefore, the trend of tourism seeking unique cultural values ​​and pristine ecosystems is becoming popular. Consequently, local authorities and businesses must keep pace with this trend in developing green tourism.

Tourists enjoy surfing on Phu Quoc Island. (Photo: N. Lan)

Mr. Ngo Tan Luc, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Quy Island District, said that the development of "Green Tourism" products in Phu Quy, although still in its early stages, has shown positive signs, with many meaningful ideas, actions, and initiatives emerging. Recently, many youth volunteer teams and tourists have regularly organized tree planting campaigns and participated in community and marine waste collection efforts. Simultaneously, the local government has encouraged and guided residents to reduce the use of single-use plastic products and avoid using non-biodegradable plastic bags; organic waste has been composted to fertilize vegetable gardens on the island.

A peaceful corner on the pearl island (photo: N. Lan).

With "Green Tourism" becoming a signature product of Phu Quy, the "smoke-free industry" here will surely expand further, creating a special impression and promising tourists the best experiences. In the coming time, Phu Quy will continue to call for investment and take advantage of various sources of capital to accelerate the implementation of key projects in the locality. At the same time, the district will strengthen the promotion and introduction of Phu Quy's potential, image, and destinations, and focus on diversifying activities related to marine and island ecotourism.

Tourists visiting Hon Tranh Island. Photo: N. Lan.

Source: https://baobinhthuan.com.vn/nam-du-lich-quoc-gia-2023-binh-thuan-hoi-tu-xanh-du-lich-phu-quy-day-an-tuong-114801.html