Safety, Medical & Emergency in Phú Quốc
Phú Quốc is one of Việt Nam’s safer destinations, with a relaxing atmosphere and friendly locals. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft can happen in crowded areas. Take normal precautions such as: keeping valuables in your hotel safe, carrying only the cash you need for the day, using cross-body bags or backpacks in busy markets, and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas late at night. The main risk for visitors comes from traffic: roads are filled with motorbikes, taxis, cars, and heavy trucks serving many new construction sites.
Emergency Numbers
112 – Search & Rescue: General hotline that links to all other emergency services.
113 – Police: Call for law enforcement assistance.
114 – Fire: For fire emergencies.
115 – Medical / Ambulance: Direct medical response and ambulance dispatch.
Hospitals & Clinics
Vinmec International Hospital (Gành Dầu): International-standard facility with modern equipment and English-speaking staff.
Phú Quốc Medical Center (Dương Đông): Main public hospital, affordable but less modern.
Private Clinics: Available in Dương Đông and An Thới for minor issues and quick treatment.
Dental Clinics: Provide quality, low-cost services compared to many countries, suitable for check-ups or basic procedures.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are easy to find across the island. For reliability, head to national chains:
Long Châu Pharmacy
Trung Sơn Pharmacy
These brands have stronger supply chains and better quality control than smaller independent shops. Always carry a copy of your prescription if you need to buy specific medications, as not all international brands are available.
Medical Costs & Insurance
Healthcare in Việt Nam is generally affordable. Even at modern hospitals like Vinmec, costs are low compared to Western countries, but they can still be significant for extended care. Comprehensive travel insurance covering hospital treatment, evacuation, and accidents is strongly recommended.
Recommended Vaccines
For most travelers to Phú Quốc, it is advised to be up to date on routine vaccines such as tetanus, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and diphtheria. Additional recommended vaccines include:
Hepatitis A & B: Commonly advised due to food and water exposure risks.
Typhoid: Recommended for those planning to eat street food or stay in rural areas.
Rabies: Considered for long-term travelers, those engaging in outdoor activities, or those who may come into contact with animals.
Tips
Traffic safety: Motorbikes dominate the roads, alongside taxis, cars, and construction trucks. Helmets are mandatory. Avoid driving under the influence, and note that urban speed limits are typically 40–50 km/h, rising to 60 km/h on open roads.
Allergies: Use a translation app to explain allergies, especially for common ingredients in Vietnamese cooking such as peanuts, cashews, soy, and shrimp paste.
Food & drink: Stick to bottled or boiled water; be careful with ice and choose busy food stalls with high turnover for safer meals.
Sun: UV radiation is strong year-round. Wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and monitor the UV index on weather apps before outdoor activities.
Rain: In rainy season, roads can become slippery and water-filled potholes are common—walk carefully and avoid riding motorbikes during heavy downpours.
Sea: Currents vary by coast; the west is rougher while the east is calmer. Always be careful of water depth, as appearances from the surface can be misleading.
Reptiles & insects: Mosquitoes are common—use repellent. Snakes may be encountered in forests; avoid tall grass, wear closed shoes, and stick to marked paths. If you encounter a snake, remain calm, step back slowly, and give it space to leave.