Phu Quoc: What to do and where to go when some areas experience power outages.

From November 29th, a 110 kV underwater cable failure on the Ha Tien - Phu Quoc line caused widespread power outages in many areas such as Duong Dong, Cua Can, Cua Duong, Ham Ninh, and the entire northern part of the island. However, many tourist attractions and services remained stable thanks to backup generators. According to local tour guides, tourists can prioritize outdoor activities, experiencing the sea, exploring local life, and choosing places with backup power systems.

Beach and outdoor activities

According to tour guide Nam, large beaches like Bai Sao, Bai Kem, and Bai Truong are largely unaffected due to their natural landscape and simple service offerings that are less dependent on electricity. Popular activities include swimming, photography, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), kayaking, or snorkeling to admire the coral reefs along the shore.

Picnic spots like Suoi Tranh and Suoi Da Ban attract trekkers who enjoy soaking in the streams and picnicking in the forest. Most vendors use gas stoves and rechargeable lamps; families and young people often choose to go in the morning to avoid the intense sun, Mr. Binh said.

Ham Ninh fishing village and the seafood restaurants along the coast remain bustling; the preparation, grilling, and steaming of seafood are done using traditional stoves. In the afternoon, sunset viewing spots such as Sunset Sanato, Ong Lang beach, and Dinh Cau Cape are crowded with people strolling, enjoying drinks, and taking group photos.

Tour companies offering canoe trips say that snorkeling at Hon Mong Tay, Hon May Rut, Hon Gam Ghi, and Hon Thom is still operating as usual. The canoes use their own fuel and are not dependent on electricity from the shore; programs typically include snorkeling, fishing, and lunch on board. Some boats are equipped with ice and gas stoves for guests. Kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) at Cua Can and Ong Lang beach are suitable options for groups of young people.

Local culture and life

Phu Quoc night market remains open every evening, using flashlights, rechargeable lamps, or small generators for lighting. Tourists can stroll around Duong Dong night market (at the intersection of Bach Dang and Nguyen Dinh Chieu streets), exploring local cuisine with seafood, grilled dishes, and snacks such as coconut ice cream, Thai rolled ice cream, and various flavored roasted peanuts. Operating hours are from 5 PM to 11 PM.

Pepper farms, honey production facilities, and myrtle gardens in Cua Duong and Ganh Dau continue to welcome visitors with outdoor tours. Tourists can learn about the pepper cultivation process, sample honey, and purchase specialty myrtle wine; these activities do not require complex electrical equipment.

A fish sauce factory is also a suitable option. The fermentation area and warehouse mainly utilize natural light; visitors can learn about the anchovy fermentation process and choose souvenirs to take home.

Choose a location with a backup system.

Phu Quoc Prison continues to welcome visitors as usual thanks to a backup generator, ensuring stable operation for the simulation area and exhibition area. According to tour guides, the number of visitors has not changed much compared to before the power outage.

The northern part of the island was heavily affected, but most entertainment venues had backup generators. Phu Quoc United Center ("the city that never sleeps") is a large entertainment and resort complex with a shopping mall, food street, art performances, bars, a night market, and vibrant walking spaces. The "one destination - all experiences" model allows visitors to eat, watch shows, or participate in festivals at any time of day without worrying about a lack of options.

Many large resorts in the North Island had already invested in high-capacity generators, so swimming pools, restaurants, and spas remain operational. Guests tend to spend more time on-site enjoying the amenities rather than traveling far.

Quick tip

• According to tour guide Thanh Binh, it's best to prioritize exploring the southern part of Phu Quoc Island during this time. The area is less affected by the storm, has many outdoor spots, and the larger resorts have backup generators.
• Prepare a backup battery; when booking, inquire about backup power options beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.
• For trekking, visiting streams, and picnicking, it's best to go in the morning to avoid the intense sun, Mr. Binh advised.