You Are Here – Phu Quoc
Starbucks You Are Here – Phú Quốc is probably the last Vietnamese mug from this series since we already seeing Been There on the shelves. It was released to commemorate the opening of the first Starbucks store on Phu Quoc island. The perfect location of this new store right on the beach, allows you to enjoy the amazing ocean views while sipping your favorite Starbucks drink. Starbucks Beach House Sun Primavera (what a name for the store!) boasts over 140 seats indoors and on its expansive outdoor patio providing a profound sense of peace and serenity. In addition to that, the new venue embraces a design motif that exudes a cheerful and welcoming beach ambiance. Decorated with accents of azure hues and a carefully curated earthy color scheme, the store serves as a homage to the mesmerizing allure of the skies and seas just beyond its doors.
Phu Quoc, also known as “Pearl Island,” is the largest island in Vietnam and is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Its history is deeply intertwined with its strategic location along ancient trade routes and its natural resources, particularly pearls and fish.
Phu Quoc has a history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of early settlements by various indigenous peoples. Over time, it became a melting pot of cultures due to its strategic location along trade routes between Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
Throughout its history, Phu Quoc has been under the rule of various powers, including the Khmer Empire, the Vietnamese Nguyen Dynasty, and the French colonial administration. Its ownership often shifted due to its strategic importance for trade and defense.
Phu Quoc officially became part of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty. In the modern era, it has been recognized as an integral part of Vietnam and has seen significant development in tourism and infrastructure.
Here are some symbols of the island that were added to the design of the mug:
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback, a distinctive breed native to the island, embodies the spirit of loyalty and agility. Renowned for its sleek appearance and remarkable endurance, this rare breed has been a faithful companion to locals for generations.
The crab depicted on the mug is probably the Phu Quoc pepper crab which stands out as a true gastronomic delight, tantalizing taste buds with its perfect blend of flavors. From traditional seafood markets to upscale restaurants, the island’s crab dishes are celebrated for their freshness and exquisite taste.
The pearl industry of Phu Quoc is steeped in centuries of tradition and expertise, making the island a renowned hub for pearl cultivation. Situated amidst the pristine waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc’s pearl farms produce some of the world’s most exquisite pearls. Skilled local farmers carefully nurture oysters, fostering the growth of these lustrous gems through meticulous care and attention to detail.
Additionally, here are the things to do when visiting amazing Phu Quoc:
Explore the Beaches: Phu Quoc is renowned for its stunning beaches with soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Some must-visit beaches include Long Beach, Bai Sao Beach, Ong Lang Beach, and Bai Dai Beach.
Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the vibrant underwater world of Phu Quoc by snorkeling or diving. The island is home to colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
Visit Phu Quoc National Park: Discover the island’s lush tropical rainforest and diverse ecosystems at Phu Quoc National Park. Explore hiking trails, spot wildlife, and visit attractions such as Suoi Tranh Waterfall and Mount Chua.
Sample Seafood Delicacies: Indulge in Phu Quoc’s delectable seafood dishes, including the famous Phu Quoc pepper crab. Visit local seafood markets, beachfront restaurants, and night markets to savor fresh catches prepared in various styles.
Visit Pearl Farms: Learn about Phu Quoc’s pearl industry by visiting one of the island’s pearl farms. Take a tour to see how pearls are cultivated, harvested, and processed, and perhaps purchase a souvenir to take home.
Sunset Watching: Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand from scenic viewpoints such as Dinh Cau Rock or beachfront bars and restaurants. The island’s west coast offers some of the most stunning sunset views.
Explore Local Markets: Immerse yourself in Phu Quoc’s vibrant local culture by visiting markets such as Phu Quoc Night Market and Duong Dong Market. Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, fresh produce, and sample street food specialties.
