Phu Quoc: What to do and where to go when some areas have power outages

Since November 29, the 110 kV underground cable incident on the Ha Tien - Phu Quoc route has caused widespread power outages in many areas such as Duong Dong, Cua Can, Cua Duong, Ham Ninh and the entire North Island. However, many tourist attractions and services remain stable thanks to backup generators. According to local tour guides, tourists can prioritize outdoor activities, experiencing the sea, exploring local life and choose places with backup systems.

Beach and outdoor activities

According to tour guide Nam, large beaches such as Bai Sao, Bai Kem, and Bai Truong are largely unaffected due to their natural landscapes and simple service chains, less dependent on electricity. Popular experiences include swimming, taking photos, playing SUP, kayaking, or snorkeling to see coral reefs off the coast.

Tourists watch a water skiing performance in Phu Quoc. Photo: Bui Van Hai

Picnic spots like Tranh Stream and Da Ban Stream attract visitors who come for trekking, soaking in the stream, and picnicking in the forest. Most vendors use gas stoves and rechargeable lamps; families and young visitors often choose to go in the morning to avoid the harsh sunlight, said Mr. Binh.

Ham Ninh fishing village and seafood restaurants along the coast are still bustling; activities of preparing, grilling, and steaming use traditional stoves. In the afternoon, sunset viewing spots such as Sunset Sanato, Ong Lang beach, and Dinh Cau cape are crowded with people walking, enjoying drinks, and taking group photos.

Tourists trekking to explore Phu Quoc forest. Photo: Thanh Binh

Canoe tour companies said that coral diving schedules at Hon Mong Tay, Hon May Rut, Hon Gam Ghi and Hon Thom are still taking place as usual. Canoes use their own fuel, not depending on electricity from shore; the program often includes coral diving, fishing, and lunch on board. Some boats are equipped with ice and gas stoves to serve guests. Kayaking and SUP at Cua Can and Ong Lang beach are suitable choices for groups of young people.

Local culture and life

Phu Quoc night market is still open every evening, use flashlights, rechargeable lamps or small generators for lighting. Visitors can stroll around Duong Dong night market (intersection of Bach Dang - Nguyen Dinh Chieu streets), explore local cuisine with seafood, grilled food and snacks such as coconut ice cream, Thai rolled ice cream, roasted peanuts with spices. Opening hours: 5pm - 11pm.

Pepper farms, honey production facilities, and sim gardens in Cua Duong and Ganh Dau continue to welcome visitors on outdoor tours. Visitors learn about the pepper growing process, taste honey, and buy specialty sim wine; these activities do not use complicated electrical equipment.

The fish sauce factory is also a good choice. The fermentation area and warehouse take advantage of natural light; visitors can listen to the introduction of the anchovy fermentation process and choose to buy souvenirs to take home.

Choose a location with a backup system

Phu Quoc Prison is still receiving visitors as usual thanks to the backup generator, ensuring stable operation of the simulation area and exhibition area. According to the tour guide, the number of visitors has not changed much compared to before the power outage.

Amusement park in the North of Phu Quoc Island seen from above. Photo: Bui Van Hai

The North Island was heavily affected, but most entertainment venues have backup generators. Phu Quoc United Center (the city that never sleeps) is a large entertainment and resort complex with a shopping mall, food street, art performances, bars, night markets and vibrant walking spaces. The "one-stop-shop" model allows visitors to eat, watch shows or attend festivals at any time of the day without worrying about a lack of options.

Many large resorts in the North Island have invested in high-capacity generators in advance, so swimming pools, restaurants, and spas are still operating. Guests tend to spend more time on the premises to enjoy the services instead of traveling far.

Quick Tips

According to tour guide Thanh Binh, you should prioritize exploring the South of Phu Quoc Island at this time. The area is less affected, has many outdoor spots and large resorts with backup generators.
Prepare spare batteries; when booking, ask about backup power system to ensure the experience.
For trekking, streams and picnics, you should go in the morning to avoid the harsh sunlight, said Mr. Binh.

Source: https://baonghean.vn/phu-quoc-choi-gi-di-dau-khi-mot-so-khu-vuc-mat-dien-10313778.html