HANOI: Vietnam’s Phu Quoc has secured a spot on Expedia’s Island Hot List 2026, ranking among the world’s top 10 island destinations for the year, Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported, citing the global online travel platform.
The Vietnamese island appears alongside internationally renowned destinations such as St Lucia, Porto Santo in Portugal, Syros in Greece, the Lofoten Islands in Norway and Fiji.
Expedia said interest in island holidays continues to surge, with online searches rising by an average of 55 per cent year-on-year and social media mentions increasing by around 20 per cent.
The trend suggests travellers are looking beyond traditional hotspots for islands that combine natural beauty, cultural depth and, in some cases, better value.
Ranked ninth, Phu Quoc is one of only two South-East Asian destinations to make this year’s list, alongside Palawan in the Philippines.
Expedia said the rankings were compiled based on search trends, traveller interest and the growth potential of island destinations.
St Lucia claimed the top spot, followed by Porto Santo in Portugal and Praslin in the Seychelles. Europe was represented by Porto Santo, Syros and the Lofoten Islands, which were recognised for their breathtaking landscapes, distinctive local cultures and more tranquil settings compared with many of the continent’s better-known holiday destinations.
According to Expedia, travellers are increasingly favouring emerging island escapes where they can enjoy authentic local culture, pristine natural surroundings and a slower pace of life.
The platform also advises travellers to book in advance or travel during the off-season to enjoy better prices and a more relaxed experience.
Expedia’s Island Hot List 2026 includes St Lucia in the Caribbean, Porto Santo in Portugal, Praslin in the Seychelles, Syros in Greece, the Lofoten Islands in Norway, Palawan in the Philippines, Culebra in Puerto Rico, Sanibel in the US, Phu Quoc in Vietnam and Fiji. - Bernama-VNA
