Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is what Phuket would be if it hadn’t been overrun by development. Phu Quoc’s beaches were voted the cleanest and most beautiful in the world by ABC News. It is also famous for producing the best “nuoc mam” (fermented fish sauce) in the world. An interesting alternative excursion is to one of the island’s fish sauce factories in Duong Dong, although visitors should be prepared for the pungent odor for which the sauce is famed. A tour of the island takes in pepper plantations and the war memorial and former prison, both of which are located in the south of the island. Phu Quoc produces an incredible 400 tonnes of the best quality black pepper each year. Pepper plantations are mostly found around the central and northern parts of the island and most farmers are happy for visitors to take photos of pepper trees or the drying process. Organized tours also visit the Khu Tuong pepper gardens for a close look and to view the overall harvesting and drying process. Nothing tastes as fresh as this black pepper The best weather for diving, with the calmest waters, is from mid-September to late May, although diving is available most of the year. Phu Quoc provides ideal conditions for those wishing to learn to dive.