When Thanksgiving arrives, most travelers from the US and Canada picture cozy family dinners, golden turkeys, and chilly autumn days; or perhaps a quick island escape to beautiful islands of the Caribbean. But familiar paradise often comes with sky-high prices and crowded resorts.
This year, why not think differently, like Phu Quoc Vietnam? November in Phu Quoc marks the shoulder season: perfect weather, fewer tourists, and better value. Here, Thanksgiving takes on a tropical twist, with fresh seafood feasts by the ocean, golden sunsets instead of falling leaves, and a slower pace that lets gratitude truly sink in. Let Travel Sense Asia help you rediscover what a Thanksgiving holiday can feel like: warm, affordable, and unforgettable.
Why should you choose Phu Quoc for Thanksgiving?
Because Thanksgiving isn’t just about where you are, it’s about how you feel. And in Phu Quoc, Vietnam, that feeling comes wrapped in sunshine, ocean breeze, and the quiet joy of slowing down before the year ends.
More affordable Thanksgiving hotels and resorts
While most travelers flock to the Caribbean or Mexico, where prices rise and beaches fill up fast, Phu Quoc remains in its shoulder season, offering perfect weather, calm seas, and better value for your stay. Also, the island has many of the best places to stay in Vietnam. They are five-star beachfront resorts at mid-season rates, boutique villas tucked into palm gardens, and infinity pools where every sunset feels private. They even embrace the Thanksgiving spirit their own way, from themed dinners blending local and Western flavors to intimate seaside barbecues under the stars.
Source: Internet
Thanksgiving holiday feast with a twist of seafood
Thanksgiving is synonymous with gathering around a table, sharing food, and celebrating gratitude. In Phu Quoc, this tradition is kept alive but infused with local flair, creating a feast that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Beside the traditional turkey, many resorts and restaurants in Phu Quoc highlight the seafood BBQ as the centerpiece. With its location in the Gulf of Thailand, the island is renowned for its abundance of fresh seafood. Picture lobster tails grilled to perfection, prawns tossed with garlic butter, scallops served in their shells, and red snapper infused with chili and lime. Guests often gather outdoors by the beach, where the scent of smoky grills mingles with the sea breeze, creating an atmosphere that’s festive, social, and uniquely tropical.
Source: Internet
Things to do in Phu Quoc for your Thanksgiving holiday
Immerse yourself into the lush forest and the blue ocean of Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc’s wild side is best enjoyed in the early morning with a hike through Phu Quoc National Park, about 45 minutes from Duong Dong. Short trails offer a quick jungle escape, while longer treks reward you with sweeping island views.
For ocean lovers looking for an island-hopping tour, take a 30-minute boat ride from An Thoi harbor to the An Thoi Archipelago. Morning snorkeling trips reveal coral gardens and colorful fish in calm, clear waters.
Prefer a slower pace? Try kayaking on Cua Can River in the late afternoon, when the golden sunset reflects off the mangroves. Whether trekking, snorkeling, or paddling, Phu Quoc blends adventure with tranquility for a Thanksgiving to remember.
Phu Quoc National Park
Phu Quoc Island-hopping Tour
Kayaking in Cua Can
Discover the local way of life on the island
Phu Quoc, Vietnam, is more than a tropical escape; it’s an island where tradition still thrives, offering North American travelers a glimpse into a slower, more grounded way of life.
Start your journey at a traditional pepper farm, where the island’s famed black pepper grows in tall, leafy rows that scent the air with a gentle spice. Unlike the factory-processed pepper found in most Western kitchens, Phu Quoc’s pepper is handpicked and sun-dried, an age-old method that preserves its bold aroma and depth of flavor. It’s no wonder world-class chefs import it to elevate their dishes.
Then step into another world of flavor at a fish sauce factory, the soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Inside, rows of enormous wooden barrels quietly ferment anchovies and sea salt for nearly a year. The result is nuoc mam, a golden liquid that anchors nearly every Vietnamese dish. Tastings reveal an umami complexity that might surprise anyone used to bottled sauces from supermarket shelves.
As night falls, wander through the night markets in Duong Dong, Vinpearl Grand World or Sunset Town, where the heartbeat of local life unfolds. Under strings of lanterns, vendors grill fresh squid, serve creamy coconut ice cream, and greet visitors with easy smiles.
Pepper Farm in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Fish Sauce Factory
Phu Quoc Night Market
Capture the sunset on a cruise trip in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is famous for its sunsets, and the best way to enjoy them is from the water. In the late afternoon, join a scenic boat cruise along the Gulf of Thailand, departing around 4:00 PM from Duong Dong or An Thoi harbor. As the boat glides past fishing villages and quiet coves, you’ll enjoy cocktails or fresh coconut water on deck while the sky shifts from orange to deep crimson.
For couples, private sunset cruises with seafood dinners on board add a romantic touch, while families can book larger boats with music, fishing activities, or even snorkeling stops before sunset.
Source: Regent Phu Quoc
Purely relax and enjoy the wellness amenities at your Phu Quoc resort
After a day of exploring, Phu Quoc invites you to slow down and embrace its tranquil side. Many resorts feature beachfront lounges and private cabanas, where you can sip a cocktail as the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand. For couples or solo travelers, swaying in a hammock beneath palm trees with the ocean breeze becomes its own kind of therapy.
Wellness seekers can indulge in spa treatments infused with local herbs and essential oils, often inspired by traditional Vietnamese healing practices. From hot stone massages using island basalt to herbal steam baths, these experiences are designed to rejuvenate body and mind.
For a deeper reset, join a sunrise yoga session on the beach or book a villa with its own pool for complete privacy. Families can opt for kid-friendly beach clubs, while adults enjoy infinity pools or wellness retreats focusing on mindfulness and relaxation.
Source: Vinpearl Phu Quoc
Travel tips during Thanksgiving for US and Canadian travelers: Vietnam edition
Planning a Thanksgiving retreat to Phu Quoc takes a little foresight, especially for travelers flying in from the US and Canada. Here are some helpful tips:
Book your holiday flights early: November is not a peak holiday in Vietnam, but it is a busy season for North American travel. To avoid high fares and complicated layovers, it’s best to secure flights 3-6 months in advance. Many travelers combine Phu Quoc with domestic stops in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or even international destinations like Bangkok and Singapore, all easily connected by regional airlines.
Pack for variety: Late November is one of the most pleasant times to visit Vietnam, with dry, sunny weather in the south, especially on Phu Quoc Island. Pack light, breathable clothing, swimsuits, sandals, and plenty of sun protection. For evenings, a linen shirt or summer dress fits perfectly with the relaxed island style, while a light jacket will come in handy for air-conditioned venues or breezy boat trips. If you plan to explore beyond Phu Quoc, from Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant streets to Hanoi’s cool autumn charm, consider adding a few layers and comfortable walking shoes. This way, you’ll be ready for every part of your holiday in Vietnam, from city strolls to seaside sunsets.
Consider all-inclusive options: For a truly worry-free holiday in Phu Quoc Vietnam, consider all-inclusive or curated packages from reputable tour operators like Travel Sense Asia. These often include airport transfers, meals, and guided excursions, giving you more time to unwind and explore. Look for properties recognized among the best places to stay in Vietnam, where you can enjoy authentic hospitality and oceanfront serenity.
With the right preparation, your Thanksgiving getaway to Phu Quoc becomes more than just a beach escape. It’s a stress-free holiday in one of the most welcoming Vietnam places to stay.
Source: Internet
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Thanksgiving Holidays in Vietnam
Q: Can I celebrate Thanksgiving in Vietnam?
A: While it’s not a traditional holiday, Phu Quoc lets you enjoy Thanksgiving with family-style meals, gratitude rituals, and tropical surroundings.
Q: What makes Phu Quoc Vietnam special for my Thanksgiving holiday?
A: Phu Quoc combines luxurious resorts, spacious villas, pristine beaches, and local cuisine with fun activities like snorkeling, market visits, village explorations, and cooking classes, making it a perfect tropical Thanksgiving getaway.
Q: Is Phu Quoc Vietnam suitable for all travelers?
A: Yes. Couples, families, and small groups can all find unique experiences tailored to their style in Phu Quoc.
Q: How can I plan my trip in Vietnam during Thanksgiving?
A: Work with Travel Sense Asia to explore Vietnam vacation packages that include Phu Quoc, making your holiday stress-free and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Phu Quoc is an ideal destination for a Thanksgiving retreat, offering a unique mix of relaxation, adventure, and festive cheer. To make your holiday truly memorable and seamless, it’s important to prepare early – from choosing the perfect villa or resort to planning activities that suit your style.
For a smooth, safe, and personalized experience, contact Travel Sense Asia to explore Vietnam vacation packages that include Phu Quoc. We can help you find the ideal accommodations, plan your itinerary, and ensure a holiday that’s both enjoyable and stress-free.
