1. What makes Phu Quoc a perfect destination for Tet?
Tet, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. Marking the arrival of spring, it is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and celebrating new beginnings. Tet typically falls between late January and early February, and the festivities can last for weeks. It is an occasion deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture.
Phu Quoc is an ideal destination for celebrating the Tet Holiday. Known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Phu Quoc offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. During Tet, the island takes on a festive atmosphere with special events, local markets, and cultural celebrations that reflect the spirit of the holiday. Visitors can enjoy a combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making Phu Quoc a perfect place to embrace the festive mood of Tet.
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2. What is the weather like during Tet in Phu Quoc?
Phu Quoc enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The island experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Tet usually falls between January and February, when the weather in Phu Quoc in January and the weather in Phu Quoc in February are in the dry season. This means the weather of Phu Quoc during Tet is warm, with pleasant temperatures around 28°C. The dry season is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the island’s beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect time for visitors to celebrate Tet in a tropical paradise.
3. Recommended activities to try during Tet in Phu Quoc
3.1. Enjoy endless fun at Phu Quoc United Center
Phu Quoc United Center is a premier complex that offers something for everyone. During Tet in Phu Quoc, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl Phu Quoc at Bai Dai Beach host activities that bring the festive atmosphere to life. Guests can enjoy cultural performances, traditional decorations, and special events designed to capture the spirit of the holiday.
In addition, the theme park of VinWonders Phu Quoc and the "sleepless city" of Grand World Phu Quoc offer countless opportunities for entertainment, shopping, and dining. For those who want to enjoy the outdoors during Tet in Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Golf Phu Quoc provides a world-class golfing experience amidst stunning scenery. Nature lovers will appreciate Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, a sprawling conservation park where you can get up close to a variety of animals in a naturalistic habitat.
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3.2. Take part in traditional festivals
During Tet in Phu Quoc, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of traditional festivals held across the city. Some must-see festivals include the Ong Lang Temple Festival, Dinh Cau Festival, Duong Dong Temple Festival, Nghinh Ong Festival, and boat races, which fill the island with joy. Near Ong Lang Beach, you can visit the shrine dedicated to Lady Kim Giao, a historical figure regarded as one of the early pioneers of the island. Moreover, you can partake in one of the highlights of the season: the Dinh Worship Festival, which takes place on the 18th and 19th days of the 1st lunar month.
3.3. Visit famous spiritual sites
Exploring spiritual sites during Tet in Phu Quoc is another great way to connect with the local culture. Many temples host cultural activities to mark the Lunar New Year, offering visitors meaningful experiences.
Notable places to visit include Ho Quoc Temple - a serene temple surrounded by the mountains and sea, Sung Hung Pagoda - one of the island's most revered temples, and Su Muon Pagoda - known for its beautiful views. You should not miss out on Dinh Cau, where the locals often come to pray for peace. From there, you can conveniently explore Dinh Cau Beach.
These temples in Phu Quoc are perfect for reflecting on oneself, learning about the local traditions, and enjoying the spiritual side of the Tet celebrations. Additionally, they are great places for taking photos.
3.4. Try water-based activities
Phu Quoc is a haven for water-based adventures, and Tet is a perfect time to indulge in them. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Gam Ghi Island and May Rut Island are must-visits. They are known for their vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Long Beach is also a popular option for Phu Quoc snorkeling.
At Starfish Beach, Sao Beach, Ganh Dau Beach, and Rach Vem Beach, you can try flyboarding, parasailing, and kayaking. Other activities at these Phu Quoc beaches include playing beach volleyball, camping, and enjoying a seafood BBQ. It is also worth taking a boat trip to Fingernail Island or Hon Mot Island to embrace Phu Quoc’s breathtaking scenery.
3.5. Explore the Tet spirit at Ham Ninh Fishing Village
Ham Ninh Fishing Village offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Phu Quoc's fishermen, making it an ideal spot to soak up the Tet spirit. The village comes alive with the bustling energy of preparations, as you can see the locals preparing offerings, repairing fishing nets, and engaging in rituals.
The natural beauty of Ham Ninh adds to its allure. From the shore, you can take in panoramic views of nearby attractions including Hai Tac Archipelago, the faint silhouette of Hon Nghe Island, and Ong Doi Cape.
As the day winds down, Ham Ninh Fishing Village becomes even more enchanting. The golden light bathes the village and its surroundings, creating a magical atmosphere. Exploring the village during Tet in Phu Quoc is not just a journey into the local culture but also an opportunity to connect with nature.
3.6. Savor Phu Quoc delicacies
Phu Quoc offers a variety of exceptional dishes that make it a food lover's paradise, especially during Tet. Some must-tries include goi ca trich, canh nam tram, ghe Ham Ninh, muc trung nuong, and nhum Phu Quoc.
You can sample these delicious Phu Quoc foods at a variety of places, such as the lively Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market, Phu Quoc restaurants along the coast, floating villages, Duong Dong Ward, and Ganh Dau Cape. The local markets are especially great for trying a range of street food and enjoying the festive atmosphere of Tet in Phu Quoc.
For something truly special, don’t miss out on banh tet mat cat, a Tet cake wrapped in leaves from the mat cat palm tree in the forests of Phu Quoc. It also makes an excellent souvenir to take home to remind yourself of Tet in Phu Quoc.
3.7. Experience Phu Quoc nightlife
When night falls, Phu Quoc comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere. One of the best ways to experience Phu Quoc nightlife is by visiting Phu Quoc Night Market. Open from 5 PM to 10 PM, the market is a lively spot for shopping and dining, with some special nights extending into the early hours of 1 AM or 2 AM. The open-air setting and friendly vendors make it a favorite attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
Another exciting night activity during Tet in Phu Quoc is squid fishing. The Lunar New Year is an excellent time for this activity as the weather is usually calm with little rain. Joining the local fishermen on a squid fishing trip allows you to experience life at sea, with the added bonus of enjoying freshly caught squid on the boat. This unique experience gives you a taste of the local life and a chance to savor fresh seafood.
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4. Tips to prepare for your trip to Phu Quoc on the Tet Holiday
To ensure you have a smooth trip to Phu Quoc during Tet, it is important to consider a few key factors. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: Tet is a peak tourist season in Phu Quoc, so book your flights, accommodation, and transport 2-3 months in advance. This ensures you have more options.
- Check prices in advance: During Tet, prices for accommodation, meals, transport, and activities tend to rise. To avoid being overcharged, make it a habit to ask for the prices beforehand.
- Opt for a travel package: Phu Quoc travel packages, such as those among Vinpearl packages, can offer significant advantages, including discounts on hotel rooms, meals, and activities. Packages often include perks like guided tours and access to exclusive attractions, making them a cost-effective way to explore the island during Tet.
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5. Guide to greeting Vietnamese people during Tet in Phu Quoc
Exchanging Tet greetings holds significant meaning in Vietnamese culture. Visitors can use these thoughtful phrases to greet their Vietnamese friends or the locals while enjoying Tet in Phu Quoc:
- Chúc mừng năm mới - Happy New Year in Vietnamese!
- Cung hỉ phát tài - Wishing you prosperity!
- Cung chúc Tân Xuân - Best wishes for the new spring!
- An khang thịnh vượng - Wishing you security, good health, and prosperity!
- Vạn sự như ý - May all things go according to your will!
- Sức khỏe dồi dào - Wishing you plenty of good health!
- Làm ăn tấn tới - May you be successful in your work!
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Celebrating Tet in Phu Quoc offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From immersing yourself in the local customs and savoring fresh seafood to exploring stunning beaches and visiting lively attractions, the island provides an unforgettable way to welcome the Lunar New Year. Plan ahead, embrace the festive spirit, and create cherished memories in this tropical paradise!
