Nov 17, 20182 min read

We Explored Phu Quoc Every Day For 2 Weeks (And Here’s What Happened!)

Dear All,

It has been a week of exploration, intensive research, decision making and acceptance. After two weeks of chasing leads, visiting potential properties and listening to the sound of endless construction, we have concluded that Phu Quoc is not a viable option for us. The beaches are beautiful, the water still clear and unpolluted, and the people, friendly and supportive – for now.

The massive increase of tourism on Phu Quoc has led to a ‘for sale’ or ‘for rent’ sign to be stapled to a tree on every visible piece of accessible land. With so many corporate investors building large-scale resorts, property prices on the island are significantly inflated, and even if we were to find the ‘perfect spot’, there is no guarantee it would remain that way for the foreseeable future.

A picture of a person with a lot of luggage outside Phu Quoc airport

So! We have returned to the map, re-packed our many suitcases (with the additional weight of a blender and an iron!), and flown to Danang, half way up the East Coast of Vietnam. We have an exciting week ahead with six viewings already lined up in Hoi An, including a building that is two months away from completion and could, if the location is right, be the perfect property for a retreat centre!

A photograph of beautifully coloured handcrafted coconut shell bowls in Hoi An

Far from being disappointed and demoralised, we are both hugely optimistic about the latest plan, and here’s why:

Hoi An is an Ancient Town with a delightful melting-pot of architecture, markets, arts and crafts and narrow, winding lanes. Within a short distance from the centre, you can take a mindful walk through rice paddy fields, unwind on white sandy beaches, or enjoy a moment of stillness on the top of a nearby mountain. When we visited in the summer, we loved the diversity of the landscape, sheer variety of possible activities on offer and evident survival of the local culture.

A photograph of beautiful Hoi An Paddy Fields with a temple in the distance.

For friends and family, this is also good travel news! Direct flights into the nearest airport, Danang, are frequent and possible from many cities across Asia. For those thinking about coming to visit from the UK, you can book a flight from London with a change in Doha, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi!