Phu Quoc, off the south coast of Vietnam, is on the tourist trail. Five years ago it was still a bit of an exotic secret, visited only by a few tourists and expats who didn’t mind that it was kind of out of the way. Things have changed as I found out a few weeks ago during a week long trip there.

First I have to say straight out that it’s still beautiful. It’s an island in the tropics with white beaches, crystal clear waters and good seafood. What’s not to like about that? Sunbathing, reading, swimming, snorkelling – beach activities to suit both active and truly lazy holidaymakers. Away from the town, there are remote beaches where it’s possible to be completely alone, the only person on the beach. There could be a herd of cows there too but that’s just a small matter. In fact, this kind of sight is one of the features which defines Phu Quoc as unique and exotic.

However, while the plans that are on the drawing board for the island are obviously exciting for the local people and their economy, they are worrying for its reputation as a holiday destination. The local people exist simply from the fishing (fish sauce), pepper and tourism industries and probably earn well under the average national wage. The enormous resort development of the Phu Quoc coast, some already underway, will change the situation for these people. Jobs will be created and more revenue will be generated for the local economy. The standard of living will improve. Money might become a priority for the locals and they may change.

The environment is threatened, too. An increase in tourist numbers means more boats on the water, more people on the beaches, greater demands on local resources, more vehicles and more noise. The roads are currently bumpy dirt roads where dust covers all who travel along them. Again, its part of the magic of the island.

I got pleasure from diving into those crystal clear waters to wash that dust off! In ten years time, I might not. Go to Phu Quoc and go now!