Phu QuocVietnam

Duong Dong, the main fishing port on the western coast of Phu Quoc, makes a great base from which to explore the island’s many delights. However, it’s also worth spending a bit of time getting to know the town itself to enjoy its colorful streets, busy port and excellent markets.

If you wake up early, be sure to visit the market on the northeast side of the town. Watch fishermen selling their fresh catch to bargaining restaurant owners throughout the morning. You’ll find the potent fish sauce common in Vietnamese cuisine here, along with fresh fruit and vegetables.

The town is easily walkable. See most of the main sights in a single morning. One of the best views is from the old bridge in the center of town. Stand in the middle of this to take pictures of the colorful fleet of fishing boats moored on the river.

Laze away the hours at pretty Long Beach at the south end of town where the warm waters are great for swimming. You will find several stalls selling drinks and snacks along the sand. If you want to head farther into the ocean, Duong Dong is also a great place to try scuba diving. A school in the harbor runs trips to areas of reef around Phu Quoc Island, where you can marvel at Vietnam’s amazing marine life.

Fans of the local food won’t want to miss the lively Dinh Cau Night Market, a short walk east from the morning market. More than a hundred neatly laid out stalls serve an array of seafood and grilled meat dishes from late afternoon until midnight. Enjoy tasty noodle soups and grilled fish and bargain for souvenirs such as hand-crafted jewelry or carvings.

You’ll find a number of more upmarket fish restaurants around the harbor, as well as several bars throughout the small town center.

Visit between November and March, ideal because of the warm weather and lower humidity than other times of year. Regular flights run from Ho Chi Minh City. Taxis from Phu Quoc’s main ferry port are inexpensive.