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Hon Thom Cable Car Featured by New York Times as Vietnam Tourism Icon
attractionsHon Thom 3 min read

Hon Thom Cable Car Featured by New York Times as Vietnam Tourism Icon

The New York Times selected Phu Quoc's Hon Thom Cable Car — the world's longest sea-crossing cable car — to illustrate Vietnam's tourism story. Here's why dental tourists should ride it.

SJ

Dental tourism advisors

Published

Apr 5, 2026

Read time

3 min

Global Recognition for Phu Quoc’s Iconic Attraction

The New York Times has selected Phu Quoc’s Hon Thom Cable Car to illustrate Vietnam’s remarkable tourism story — a powerful endorsement from one of the world’s most influential media outlets. The cable car, which holds a Guinness World Record as the world’s longest three-wire sea-crossing cable car at 7,899.9 meters, has become a symbol of Vietnam’s transformation into a premier global travel destination.

This recognition comes as Phu Quoc experiences unprecedented tourism growth, with international arrivals surging 72% year-on-year in 2026.

The World’s Most Spectacular Cable Car Ride

A Record-Breaking Journey

The Hon Thom Cable Car connects the southern tip of Phu Quoc island to Hon Thom (Pineapple Island), gliding nearly 8 kilometers across open ocean. The ride offers:

  • 360-degree panoramic views of the An Thoi archipelago
  • 15-20 minutes of breathtaking aerial scenery
  • Comfortable enclosed cabins with air circulation
  • Stunning sunset views on late afternoon rides

What Awaits on Hon Thom

AttractionDescriptionBest For
Pristine beachesWhite sand, crystal watersRelaxing during dental recovery
Aquatopia Water ParkSoutheast Asia’s leading water parkActive recovery days
Nature trailsGentle walks through tropical forestLow-impact exercise
Beachfront diningFresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisineSoft-food options available
Sunset Town (departure)Mediterranean-style village, shoppingEvening strolls

Why Dental Tourists Should Care

The Perfect Recovery Activity

After dental procedures, patients need activities that are enjoyable but not physically demanding. The Hon Thom Cable Car ride checks every box:

  • No chewing required — just sit and watch the scenery
  • No physical exertion — the cable car does all the work
  • Air-conditioned comfort — escape the tropical heat
  • Flexible scheduling — rides run throughout the day
  • Instagram-worthy moments — capture your dream dental trip

An Island Within an Island

Hon Thom offers a change of scenery during multi-day dental stays. Spending a recovery day on its quiet beaches, surrounded by turquoise water and tropical greenery, transforms a medical trip into a genuine holiday experience.

New Hotel Development

With Marriott’s Moxy and Fairfield properties opening on Hon Thom, dental tourists will soon have the option of staying on the island itself — a cable car ride away from mainland Phu Quoc’s dental clinics, combining ultimate relaxation with convenient treatment access.

A Tourism Story That Benefits Everyone

The New York Times feature is more than media coverage — it is validation that Phu Quoc has arrived on the world stage. For dental tourists, this means:

  • Higher service standards as businesses cater to increasingly international visitors
  • More flight connections from major cities worldwide
  • Better infrastructure driven by tourism investment
  • Growing medical tourism awareness including dental services

Phu Quoc’s 30-day visa-free entry, world-record attractions like the Hon Thom Cable Car, and affordable dental care create a combination that few destinations can match. Whether you visit for a smile makeover or a single crown, riding the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car should be on your must-do list.

Plan Your Dental Trip to Phu Quoc Compare verified clinics, real prices, and patient reviews on SmileJet — your trusted dental tourism platform.
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Frequently asked questions

helpWhy did the New York Times feature the Hon Thom Cable Car?
The New York Times selected the Hon Thom Cable Car to illustrate Vietnam's tourism boom, highlighting it as an iconic attraction that represents the country's rapid development as a world-class travel destination.
helpHow long is the Hon Thom Cable Car?
The Hon Thom Cable Car holds a Guinness World Record as the world's longest three-wire sea-crossing cable car at 7,899.9 meters (nearly 8km), connecting southern Phu Quoc to Hon Thom island.
helpIs the Hon Thom Cable Car a good activity during dental recovery?
Yes. The cable car is a smooth, comfortable ride requiring no physical exertion — perfect for dental recovery days. You sit and enjoy stunning views of the ocean, islands, and Sunset Town below.
helpWhat is there to do on Hon Thom island?
Hon Thom features a nature park, pristine beaches, water activities, the Aquatopia Water Park, dining options, and planned new Marriott hotels. It is an ideal day trip during dental treatment.
helpHow much does the Hon Thom Cable Car cost?
Ticket prices vary by package but typically range from 150,000-350,000 VND (approximately $6-14 USD) for the cable car ride, with combo packages available that include park access and activities.

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