Phu Quoc among CNN’s top five destinations to visit this fall
CNN has selected the top five up-and-coming Asia Pacific destinations to visit this fall, including Phu Quoc island off Vietnam’s southern province of Kien Giang.
Phu Quoc's dry season starts in November. (Courtesy JW Marriott Emerald Bay Resort)
Hanoi (VNA) – CNN has selected the top fiveup-and-coming Asia Pacific destinations to visit this fall, including Phu Quocisland off Vietnam’s southern province of Kien Giang.
According to CNN, for those planning their first trip to the Asia-Pacific region, majordestinations usually top the list, such as Shanghai and Hong Kong (China), Tokyo (Japan) and Singapore.
These power-hitters promise internationalflights and easy infrastructure, making them logical entryways for travelerstrekking around the world.
But with shoulder-season pricesand better weather -- cooler days in Southeast Asia and warmer temperaturesDown Under -- fall is the perfect season to explore the region more deeply, itsaid, rounding up destinations across Asia-Pacific for the fall 2018.
Apart from Phu Quoc island,other destinations in the CNN list are Chengdu (China), Fukuoka (Japan), Jeju(Japan) and Perth (Australia).
“If you're dreaming of a beachgetaway in Asia this fall, Phu Quoc in Vietnam should be a topcontender. For starters, the dry season begins in November and runs tillApril,” CNN wrote on its website.
In addition, it's is just anhour from Ho Chi Minh City and offers a 30-day visa exemption policy for all foreign passports.
Formerly a prison island duringFrench colonial times, Phu Quoc's photogenic setting and clear waters caughtthe attention of international brands like JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, which debuted its BillBensley-designed resort late last year.
There's plenty to do aside fromlounging and snorkeling around Ong Lang Beach.
The Phu Quoc Prison Museum offers a peek into theisland's dark history while the Phu Quoc National Park and Suoi Tranh Waterfall will spoil nature lovers.
“As for the food, this islandis famous for its fish sauce, so don't miss every chance to try it -- whichshouldn't be hard, seeing as it's a main ingredient of most Vietnamese dishes,”the channel said.-VNA
The Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang welcomed more than 1.5 million tourists in the first quarter of this year, surging 3.7 percent against the same period in 2017.
Islands of southern Kien Giang province became magnets for tourists during the National Reunification (April 30) and May Day (May 1) holiday starting on April 28, contributing to a sharp rise of visitors to this Mekong Delta locality in the first four months of 2018.
The Southern Power Corporation of the Electricity of Vietnam (EVN SPC) is investing in building six new power works in Phu Quoc island district of the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang.
CNN’s magazine has selected its top five destinations to visit this fall, with Phu Quoc island of Vietnam among the most unique destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has instructed the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) to coordinate with other ministries, agencies and localities to effectively implement policies and directives from the Party, Government, and Prime Minister on tourism development.
Da Nang's appeal stems from its numerous outstanding tourist attractions, particularly My Khe Beach, Sun World Ba Na Hills resort, and the ancient town of Hoi An. Additionally, Da Nang tourism is renowned for its affordability, especially attractive to young travellers and couples, according to Chosun Ilbo.
With new direct flights from major Indian cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, Vietnam is becoming an increasingly compelling destination for Indian tourists seeking a quick, emotionally rich four-day escape that blends luxury, culture, and natural wonder.
By source market, China continued to lead with 3.1 million visitors, equivalent to 25.5% of all foreign arrivals. The Republic of Korea followed with 2.5 million, or 20.7%. Other major markets included Taiwan (China) with 737,000, the US with 522,000, and Japan with 380,000.
Khanh Hoa has welcomed 16 international cruises so far this year, with more than 19,000 tourists disembarking to explore the province’s scenic landscapes and renowned cultural, religious, and artistic landmarks, as well as to enjoy local cuisine and sightseeing tours.
According to local plans, fireworks shows will be held at multiple locations, with Ha Long Bay as the focal point. More than mere entertainment, these displays are part of a strategic cultural tourism product aimed at strengthening the region’s brand.
Chatbot and virtual assistants support itinerary consultation and tour bookings, and provide around-the-clock response across multiple platforms while AI advertising applications have been used to optimise budgets and target the right customers. AI has been also employed to analyse customer data, enabling the delivery of personalised tour recommendations.
Many Vietnamese regions possess favourable conditions, including natural landscapes, climate, and rich cultural identities, to host sport events that integrate with cultural and tourism experiences.
Dubbed the “land of ancient towers”, Khanh Hoa boasts a rich Cham legacy through architectural masterpieces like the Po Nagar, Hoa Lai, Po Klong Garai, and Po Rome towers.
Vietnam’s e-visa system is now seen as one of the most efficient, convenient, and transparent in the region. Fully online registration, no paperwork or interviews, and fast and flexible processing time have improved foreigners’ entry experience, creating a competitive advantage over countries clinging to complicated and costly visa procedures.
Sunset Town unfolded like a living fairytale. Every street and hidden corner recalls iconic European landmarks – from Venice’s San Marco Bell Tower and Paris’s Arc de Triomphe to Almafi-style squares and cobblestone paths reminiscent of southern Italy.
Its natural advantages have made Mui Ne a magnet for enthusiasts of kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). These activities not only diversify the local tourism offerings but also contribute to the area’s long-term development strategy focused on sustainability.
In July alone, the city welcomed 695,930 international arrivals, surging 75.3% year-on-year. For the seven-month period, international visitors totalled 4.5 million, up 48% year-on-year.
Welcoming the crew on the morning of July 30, Dang Dong Ha, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasised that the film offers a valuable opportunity to promote Quang Tri’s tourism potential, particularly to Indian visitors, but also to a broader global audience.
With a proactive and creative approach, Hanoi is positioning itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations where tradition meets innovation, and every visit offers a blend of the familiar and the new.
Fostering linkage among regional localities and restructuring the tourism sector towards professionalism are among measures to boost the “smokeless industry” of the Mekong Delta.
Phu Quoc's dry season starts in November. (Courtesy JW Marriott Emerald Bay Resort) 
