The mountainous island of Phu Quoc has some of Vietnam’s most impressive beaches and is a popular holiday destination for those wanting to escape the hustle of nearby Saigon. There is also the best seafood in the country to sample and some interesting cultural sites to take in as well.

Phu Quoc was used as home for French missionaries during the 18th century and during the Vietnam war there was a POW camp for Viet Cong soldiers here. But today the island has a much more laigback feel and the 80,000 people that live here make their living from fishing and tourism.

Another claim to fame for Phu Quoc is its famous fish sauce (nuoc mam), commonly regarded as the finest in the world. It also produces very high quality pepper although, unique for the Mekong Delta region, doesn’t grow much rice and staple crops due to rugged terraine and poor soil quality.

In 2008 ABC News voted the island as having “the cleanest and most beautiful beach in the world” and many tourists have contined to flock here, with many thinking considering it an unspoilt version of Thailand’s Phuket. Hiring a motorbike is the best way to explore the island, and there is great snorkelling just offshore as well.

There are hydrofoils and ferries between Phu Quoc and the maintain ports of Ha Tien, Rach Gia and Hon Chong. Although disreputable tour agents may claim that fast services are full, you may be able to buy tickets on the street directly at the dockside.

Always drink bottled water in Vietnam

If you have been to Asia before, you probably have a good idea of what to expect on arrival in Vietnam; however, every culture has its differences. Here is a quick list of travel tips which may be useful if you are planning a trip to Vietnam:

Don’t drink tap water. Bottled water is readily available and cheap.

Don’t take cyclo rides after dark. Exercise the same caution you would anywhere in the world. Using your common sense is usually enough to keep you safe in Vietnam.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and local dwellings.

Before heading out on the town at night, put any valuables in your hotel safe or a locked bag in your room. Also, avoid taking valuables to the beach.

When crossing busy city thoroughfares, walk slowly and keep looking to the right and left. Don’t ever change your pace, or turn back!

Don’t offer money to minority people, as it encourages begging. Making a donation to a local charity or offering a useful gift is the best way to help.

Always ask for permission to photograph locals or their communities.

No matter how frustrated you feel, don’t loose your temper. It is embarrassing for everyone and it certainly won’t help your situation.

Don’t be afraid to try some of the delicious street food. If you are concerned about hygiene, check the vendor is presentable and has a high turnover of food.

Book medical insurance before you travel.

Make sure you keep the yellow form from the airport. This exit/entry form needs to be returned on departure, so if you lose it you may be fined.

Visitors to Vietnam are often captivated by the beautiful landscapes which lie outside the cities, and take reels of photos in an attempt to capture the essence of the country. However, there are many other aspects of the country worth photographing.

The local people make an excellent subject matter, and in particular the local children. Vietnamese people are very friendly and approachable, and they usually don’t mind being photographed if you ask first. Learn a few words of Vietnamese so you can ask. If you forget, just smile making a gesture at your camera and they will usually understand and strike a pose for you.

Markets are a vibrant affair throughout Asia, and markets in the rural areas are usually the most interesting. The floating markets on the Delta are particularly photogenic, as is the surrounding river-life. Markets are also a great place to capture locals conducting their daily business.

Vietnam’s architecture is also worth a few snaps. Aside from the beautiful temples and pagodas, many cities are adorned with classic architectural styles and ancient buildings. Hanoi’s colonial French architecture has distinct character, while Hoi An is adorned with ancient buildings.

Visitors should be careful not to photograph anything military sensitive, as you may find yourself in trouble with the police.

Ao dais and bicycles
Travel Vietnam virtually here, as we reveal the country weekly on this travel professional’s blog. From the Delta in the South to Sapa in the North we cover all the sightseeing, culture, history, food, entertainment, hospitality and activities travellers can expect to see and do in Vietnam.

We’ve been travelling Southeast Asia for years, here’s a full blown info resource with colourful pics and video clips to get you all excited about visiting Vietnam.

Whether you are visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang, Sapa or Dalat, you can plan your trip here.

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