US Magazine: Hon Thom Cable Car brings Phu Quoc to the list of Asia’s best islands

According to Quartz, Phu Quoc’s primary draw begins with its creamy white-sand beaches shaded by swaying palms and warm, emerald waters. What truly elevates the island in the outlet’s estimation, however, is its ability to deliver experiences that exceed expectations through world-class infrastructure. The article underscores the rare combination of “white-sand beaches dotted with palm trees and warm aquamarine waters” that distinguishes Phu Quoc from islands that rely solely on natural beauty.

The nature-blessed beauty of Kem Beach in Phu Quoc is one of the reasons it captivates visitors.

To illustrate the island’s growing stature, Quartz reserved special praise for the Hon Thom cable car, which departs from Sunset Town. The magazine called it a must-do experience, noting that this cable system holds the Guinness World Record as the longest three-wire cable car on the planet. Quartz recommends riding it in the late afternoon to take in the full spectacle of the sun setting in gold across the sea.

The Hon Thom cable car - the world’s longest three-wire cable car is a “must-try” experience on Vietnam’s Pearl Island.

This is far from the first time Phu Quoc has earned international acclaim. In 2025, readers of Condé Nast Traveler voted it Asia’s Best Island and the third in the world’s list. Early in 2026, it claimed second place among Asia’s best islands in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards. Most recently, Condé Nast Traveller Middle East included Phu Quoc among the 10 islands capturing global traveler attention in 2026.

These successive international endorsements reflect Phu Quoc’s remarkable transformation in recent years. Once a “rough diamond” hidden amid nature, the Pearl Island has evolved into a full-scale resort, leisure, and entertainment destination of international caliber.

A typical day might begin at the dreamy Kem Beach, continue with a stroll through Sunset Town, then soar across the world’s longest three-wire cable car to Hon Thom. There, visitors can splash freely at Aquatopia Water Park, tackle adventures at Exotica Village, or unwind beside the two stunning infinity pools overlooking the ocean at Santo Beach Club.

In Sunset Town itself, the dramatic Kiss Bridge stretches proudly into the sea, offering one of the most romantic vantage points for sunset. As night falls, the area comes alive with multi-sensory spectacles blending music, light, water shows, and dazzling fireworks.

The Kiss of the Sea show - a vibrant multi-sensory feast of music, light, and fireworks.

After a full day of exploration, the experience is completed by world-class accommodation. Phu Quoc is home to celebrated properties such as JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, New World Phu Quoc Resort, and Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, elevating every stay and perfectly rounding out a day of pure enjoyment on this island of delights.

Beyond on-island infrastructure, connectivity continues to improve through a growing network of international flights, a 30-day visa exemption policy, and the launch of Sun PhuQuoc Airways. The airline’s ambitious expansion plans are expected to bring Phu Quoc even closer to high-value international source markets.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ expanding route network is helping connect Phu Quoc directly with premium tourism markets worldwide.

At the same time, preparations for the APEC 2027 summit are delivering a major boost, driving comprehensive upgrades to the airport, transport networks, accommodation stock, conference facilities, and urban landscape. The high-profile event is more than a diplomatic milestone - it is a springboard that will help Phu Quoc compete on equal footing with the region’s most celebrated coastal destinations.

Quartz is a leading American outlet covering business, technology, and lifestyle, known for in-depth analysis aimed at elite readers, business leaders, and decision-makers. Its travel rankings are widely respected for their credibility, objectivity, and emphasis on distinctive real-world experiences.