Vietnam - Phu Quoc

🇻🇳 Phu Quoc – Between Ghost Town and Underwater Paradise 🌊🍉

When we planned our trip to Phu Quoc, our expectations were high: paradise beaches, lively markets, tropical vibes. But what we found was... very different.

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😶 A Ghost Town by the Sea

From the moment we arrived, something felt off. The island was quiet—too quiet. Shops were closed, hotels seemed abandoned, and there were barely any people around. It felt more like walking through a forgotten movie set than a buzzing island in Vietnam.

We later found out why: the tourism that once kept the island alive hadn’t really come back since the pandemic. What used to be vibrant now felt like it was frozen in time.

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🚡 The Longest Cable Car in the World & a Waterpark Just for Us

One of the big highlights was the ride on the longest cable car in the world. Floating above turquoise waters and tiny islands, the views were breathtaking. At the end of the ride, we arrived at a modern waterpark – totally empty. No lines, no noise, just us and the slides. Pure fun and a bit surreal. 🎢🌴

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🍳 Living Above a Hotel & The Best Omelette Ever

Our apartment was located above a hotel, owned by the same warm-hearted man who hosted us. Every morning, he made us the most delicious omelette we’ve ever had – no exaggeration! He also gave us free bikes, which turned out to be the perfect way to explore the quiet corners of the island. 🚲🥚

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🎢 A Touch of Disneyland – and a Hint of Horror Movie 🎠👻

One day we decided to visit a theme park that looked like a Vietnamese version of Disneyland. And to be fair – parts of it were really well done! Colorful castles, music, fun rides, and photo spots everywhere. The kids were excited, and we were curious.

But right next to this shiny new park... stood the eerie remains of an old, abandoned amusement park. Rusty rides, broken statues, nature reclaiming the space. It felt like stepping into a horror movie set – surreal, spooky, and fascinating at the same time. 🎡🌫️

The working part of the park was fun, but unfortunately, most of the rides were only allowed from 1.20 meters heightand up. That meant our middle child wasn’t allowed on many attractions – which was honestly frustrating and kind of heartbreaking. He watched his big brother ride while waiting patiently. 😔💔

It reminded us once again: not every destination is made with kids in mind – even if it looks like it.

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🏖️ Hidden Beaches & Melon Moments

With the kids on the back of our bikes, a bag full of melon, drinks, and good vibes – we pedaled our way to empty beaches that looked like scenes from a postcard. No people, no noise. Just the waves, the sun, and our laughter. ☀️

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🤿 Neon Dreams Underwater

One of the most magical experiences was a snorkeling trip. Beneath the surface, a colorful underwater world unfolded. Fish, coral reefs, giant sea urchins – and even a neon-pink coral that looked like it came straight out of a dream. The kids couldn’t get enough of it. 🐠💖

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🌀 Final Thoughts: Quiet, Beautiful – But We Were Ready to Leave

Phu Quoc was unexpected – and not in the way we’d hoped. The island felt abandoned, lifeless in many places. Even the food wasn’t really our thing – often oily, heavy, and just not what we were craving after weeks of travel. 🍲😅

Yes, there were beautiful moments: the cable car, the quiet beaches, the underwater wonderland, and that unforgettable omelette. But still, the vibe just didn’t feel right for us.

We’re grateful for the experience, for the stillness, and the lessons. But honestly – we were also relieved to move on. Sometimes, a place just doesn’t click. And that’s okay. It’s all part of the journey.

Every stop reminds us what we value most: energy, connection, good food, and that magical feeling of being welcomed by a place.

Phu Quoc was a quiet chapter in our story. Not a highlight, but a real part of our adventure. And that’s what makes this journey so raw and beautiful. 💛🌍