Shadowing Practice: 20 Best Things to Do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam - Learn English Speaking with Video

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Welcome to Phu Quoc, Vietnam's hidden gem, a paradise where pristine beaches meet rich culture and adventure.
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Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another dose of island magic, this guide has everything you need.
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Stick around as we count down the 20 best things to do in Phu Quoc that will make your trip unforgettable.
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If you're short on time but still want to experience the best of Phu Quoc, here are the top 5 must-do activities.
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Number 1.
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Vinpearl Safari.
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Vinpearl Safari is the largest conservation park in Vietnam, home to over 150 animal species including rare and endangered animals.
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The Safari offers both an open zoo and a semi-wild area where animals roam freely, creating a more natural experience for visitors.
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You can also participate in animal feeding sessions and watch the educational animal performances that highlight the importance of wildlife conservation.
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Number 2.
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Cao Beach.
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Cao Beach is not only famous for its powdery white sand, but also for its serene atmosphere.
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Unlike other tourist-heavy beaches, Cao Beach offers a peaceful retreat with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming.
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The beach is relatively undeveloped, so pack a picnic and enjoy a day of relaxation.
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If you're up for adventure, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the surrounding waters.
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Number 3, Han Tom Cable Car.
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The Han Tom Cable Car is the world's longest sea crossing cable car, stretching nearly 8km.
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The ride offers panoramic views of the Antoi Archipelago and the Emerald waters below.
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Once you reach Han Tom Island, you can explore Aquatopia Water Park, which boasts over 20 thrilling rides and slides, or relax on the island's pristine beaches.
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Number 4, Night Market.
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Phu Quoc Night Market is a bustling hub of activity where you can sample local street food like grilled seafood, fresh spring rolls, and Vietnamese pancakes .
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It's also the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs, from handcrafted jewelry to traditional Vietnamese hats
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The market is an excellent opportunity to experience the island's vibrant nightlife and mingle with locals Number 5.
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Sunset at Dinh Cao Temple Dinkau Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea,
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is a must-visit for its cultural significance and stunning sunset views.
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The temple is dedicated to Tianhao, the goddess of the sea who protects fishermen and sailors.
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The temple's colorful dragon statues and intricate architecture make it a great spot for photography.
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After sunset, you can explore the nearby night market for some local delicacies.
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For those with more time, stay tuned for even more incredible experiences.
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Now let's dive deeper into what makes Phu Quoc truly special.
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These activities will immerse you in the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture.
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Number 6.
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Explore Phu Quoc National Park.
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Phu Quoc National Park covers more than half of the island and is a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
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The park is a haven for wildlife with over 200 animal species, including the rare long-tailed macaque and the silver langur.
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Hiking trails take you through dense forests, past streams, and up to the Gondau Peak,
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where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and even spot Cambodia in the distance.
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Number seven, visit the pepper farms.
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Fu Quoc's pepper is renowned for its unique flavor thanks to the island's rich soil and climate.
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Visiting a pepper farm gives you insight into traditional farming methods that have been passed down through generations.
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You can taste different types of pepper and learn about the entire production process from planting to drying.
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Don't forget to buy some as a souvenir to spice up your cooking back home.
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Number 8.
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Snorkeling and Diving at Antoi Archipelago.
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The Antoi Archipelago consists of 15 islands, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Vietnam.
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The coral reefs here are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional dugong.
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You can join a guided tour that includes island hopping, snorkeling, and a seafood barbecue on the beach.
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For certified divers, there are deeper sights with impressive underwater landscapes.
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Number 9, Hamnin Fishing Village.
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Hamnin is one of the oldest fishing villages on Pu Quoc, where traditional stilt houses line the shore.
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Visiting the village is like stepping back in time, where you can observe the daily lives of local fishermen.
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Fresh seafood is the highlight here.
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Don't miss trying the famous ham ninh crab, known for its sweet, succulent meat.
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The village also offers a glimpse of traditional fish sauce production, a staple of Vietnamese cuisine.
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Number 10.
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Coconut Prison Prison.
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Coconut Prison, also known as Poo Quoc Prison, was built by the French colonialists,
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and later used during the Vietnam War to detain political prisoners.
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The prison is infamous for its brutal conditions, and the tortures inflicted on the prisoners.
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Today it serves as a museum, with exhibits and life-sized models that depict the harsh realities of life inside.
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It's a sobering experience but an important part of Vietnam's history.
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Number 11.
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Rache Vem Starfish Beach.
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Rache Vem Beach is a hidden gem known for its shallow waters filled with hundreds of starfish.
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The best time to visit is during the dry season when the water is clear, making it easy to spot the starfish.
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The beach is also home to several floating restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching fishing boats go by.
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Remember to be gentle with the starfish and avoid taking them out of the water.
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Number 12.
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Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc.
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Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc is one of the largest and most exciting amusement parks in Vietnam,
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offering a wide range of activities for all ages.
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From thrilling roller coasters and water slides to a large aquarium and a dolphin show, this park has it all.
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It's the perfect destination for families, with plenty of rides and attractions to keep the kids entertained.
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Don't miss the 5D cinema experience and the daily parades that add to the fun.
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Vinpearl Land also has a large shopping area and various dining options, making it a great place to spend an entire day.
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Number 13.
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Kayaking in Kwa Khaan River
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Kayaking along the Kwa Khaan River offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the tourist spots.
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The river winds through lush mangroves and small fishing villages, giving you a glimpse of local life.
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Keep an eye out for kingfishers and other wildlife that call the mangroves home.
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You can also combine the kayaking trip with a visit to the nearby beaches for a full day of adventure.
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Number 14, Pukwok Waterfall.
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The waterfall, also known as Suoy Daban, is a series of rock pools and cascades surrounded by tropical forest.
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It's a great spot for a refreshing swim or a picnic.
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The trail to the waterfall is relatively easy, making it accessible for all ages.
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The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak, creating a more dramatic and picturesque scene.
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Number 15.
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Join a cooking class.
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Phu Quoc's cooking classes are a hands-on way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.
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Most classes start with a trip to the local market, where you'll learn about the ingredients and how to choose the freshest produce.
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Back in the kitchen, you'll prepare traditional dishes like fresh spring rolls, Pho, and fish sauce dipping sauce.
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The best part?
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You get to enjoy the meal you've prepared at the end of the class.
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Number 16, visit Tsui Tran Waterfall.
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Tsui Tran Waterfall is a popular picnic spot among locals, thanks to its easy access and serene surroundings.
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The waterfall is set in a lush forest with several pools where you can take a dip.
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There are also small caves nearby that you can explore.
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Bring along some snacks and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
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Number 17, Onglang Beach.
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Onglang Beach is one of Pu Quoc's more secluded beaches, offering a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas.
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The beach is lined with palm trees and has calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
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There are also several beachside restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset.
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it's the perfect spot for a laid-back day by the sea.
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Number 18.
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Explore Gondau Cape.
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Gondau Cape is a fantastic spot for those who love scenic views and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
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From here you can actually see the coastline of Cambodia across the water.
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This remote cape offers a more rugged and natural side of Phu Quoc, with its untouched beaches and rocky outcrops.
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It's a great place for a quiet picnic or simply to take in the panoramic views.
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You can also visit the nearby fishing village to observe local life, and perhaps buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen.
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Number 19.
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Visit the Fish Sauce Factory.
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Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce, considered some of the best in Vietnam.
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Visiting a fish sauce factory provides a fascinating insight into the traditional production methods that have been used for generations.
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You'll learn how the fish are fermented in wooden barrels for up to a year to achieve the perfect flavor.
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Many factories offer tastings, allowing you to appreciate the unique taste of Phu Quoc's fish sauce,
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which is less pungent and has a more delicate flavor than other varieties.
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Number 20.
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Baivong Beach.
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Baivong Beach is a great spot for water sports enthusiasts.
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The beach offers a variety of activities, including jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides.
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The waters here are clear and calm, making it safe for both beginners and experienced thrill seekers.
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After a day of adventure, relax at one of the beachfront bars with a cold drink in hand while watching the sunset.
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Now that you've discovered the top things to do in Pu Quoc,
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let's make sure you're fully prepared to enjoy them to the fullest.
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Before we wrap up, here are some essential tips and money-saving hacks.
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That will help you make the most of your trip while keeping your budget intact.
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Let's dive into these practical tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free adventure.
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1. Best time to visit Pukwok.
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Visit between November and March for the best weather, though it's peak season.
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For fewer crowds, consider the shoulder seasons in April, June or September, October.
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2. Where to stay on a budget.
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Stay in Duong Dong or Kualap for affordable guest houses and easy access to beaches and markets.
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Many budget spots offer free breakfast or bicycle rentals.
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3. How to get around Fuquok.
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Rent a motorbike for $610 USD per day or use taxis and grab.
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Bicycles are great for exploring quieter areas.
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local markets for affordable meals.
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Head to Pu Kwok Night Market or Duong Dong Market for budget-friendly street food, with meals costing $2.5 USD.
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5. Haggling Tips.
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Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate politely.
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No one to walk away if needed.
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6. Money-saving Tips for Attractions.
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Enjoy free beaches and waterfalls.
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Look for combo tickets or group discounts for paid attractions.
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7. Currency exchange and payment tips.
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Exchange money locally for better rates and keep cash on hand for smaller shops.
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Avoid airport exchanges.
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8. Safety tips.
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Be cautious with belongings in crowded areas, lock your motorbike, and swim safely in less crowded spots.
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And there you have it, the ultimate guide to Phu Quoc, Vietnam.
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Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, this island has something for everyone.
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Thanks for joining me on this journey.
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If you enjoyed this video, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with your friends.
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Check out the links in the description for more details and tips on planning your perfect Puquok getaway.
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See you in the next one!

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Vocabulary and speaking notes for this lesson

This video has 156 sentences and 1937 words to shadow. The speech runs for 15:48. The speaker talks at a steady 123 words per minute, a comfortable pace for shadowing. Only 70% of the words are among the 3,000 most common in English, so the vocabulary is demanding.

Key vocabulary in this video

15 words from the video worth learning, with pronunciation and meaning:

WordPronunciationMeaning
explore verb/ɪkˈsploɹ/To examine or investigate something systematically.
adventure noun/ədˈvɛn.t͡ʃə/A feeling of desire for new and exciting things.
seafood noun/ˈsiːfuːd/Food from the sea, including that derived from fish, shellfish, crustaceans, cephalopods, seaweed, algae, marine mammals, and other marine organisms.
waterfall noun/ˈwɔːtəfɔːl/A flow of water over the edge of a cliff.
sunset noun/ˈsʌnˌsɛt/The moment each evening when the sun disappears below the western horizon.
swim verb/swɪm/To move through the water, without touching the bottom; to propel oneself in water by natural means.
pepper noun/ˈpɛp.ə/A plant of the family Piperaceae.
dive verb/daɪv/To swim under water.
picnic noun/ˈpɪknɪk/An informal social gathering, usually in a natural outdoor setting, to which the participants bring their own food and drink.
meal noun/ˈmiːl/Food that is prepared and eaten, usually at a specific time, and usually in a comparatively large quantity.
temple noun/ˈtɛm.pl̩/A house of worship dedicated to a polytheistic faith.
wildlife noun/ˈwaɪldlaɪf/undomesticated animals, especially mammals, birds, and fish, which live in the wild.
cape noun/keɪp/A piece or point of land, extending beyond the adjacent coast into a sea or lake; a promontory; a headland.
relax verb/ɹɪˈlæks/To make something loose.
attraction noun/əˈtɹækʃn̩/The tendency to attract.

Phrasal verbs you will hear

WordMeaning
bring along verbTo escort or carry an item or person to a destination.
check out verbTo record the departure or withdrawal of someone or something (such as guests, employees, books, etc.).
get around verbTo move to the other side of (something, such as an obstruction) by deviating from a direct course or following a curved path.
pass down verbTo hand over, pass through or transfer to a lower level, next generation, etc.
pick up verbTo lift; to grasp and raise.
stick around verbTo stay; to linger; to remain.
walk away verbTo withdraw from a problematic situation.
wrap up verbTo cover or enclose (something) by folding and securing a covering entirely around it.

Grammar in this video

The structures the speaker uses most, with the exact words from the video:

StructureIn the video
Passive voice be + past participle — the focus is on what happens, not who does itis renowned · have been passed · was built
Present perfect have/has + past participle — a past action that still matters nowhave been passed · you've prepared · have been
Superlatives the -est / the most … — the top or bottom of a groupthe best · the largest · the oldest
Future with “will” will + verb — a decision, promise or predictionwill make · will immerse · you'll learn

Pronunciation to watch

The speaker uses 14 contractions and reduced forms, such as you're, don't, you'll. Say them the short way, as you hear them.

  • The “th” sounds: thrill /θɹɪl/, smooth /smuːð/, enthusiast /ɪnˈθuːziˌæst/
  • The “sh” and “zh” sounds: attraction /əˈtɹækʃn̩/, conservation /ˌkɑnsə(ɹ)ˈveɪʃən/, shallow /ˈʃæloʊ/, relaxation /rᵻˌlækˈseɪ.ʃən/, shore /ʃɔɹ/
  • Long words — get the stress right: conservation /ˌkɑnsə(ɹ)ˈveɪʃən/, affordable /əˈfɔɹ.də.bəl/, photography /fəˈtɑ.ɡɹə.fi/, architecture /ˈɑː.kɪˌtɛk.t͡ʃə/, participate /pɑːˈtɪs.ɪ.peɪt/

How to practise with this video

  1. Listen to the whole video once without speaking and note the words you do not know.
  2. Shadow it sentence by sentence at normal speed, repeating each one until your rhythm matches the speaker.
  3. Record yourself and compare with the original, paying attention to words like explore, adventure, seafood.

What is the Shadowing Technique?

Shadowing is a science-backed language learning technique originally developed for professional interpreter training and popularized by polyglot Dr. Alexander Arguelles. The method is simple but powerful: you listen to native English audio and immediately repeat it out loud — like a shadow following the speaker with just a 1–2 second delay. Unlike passive listening or grammar drills, shadowing forces your brain and mouth muscles to simultaneously process and reproduce real speech patterns. Research shows it significantly improves pronunciation accuracy, intonation, rhythm, connected speech, listening comprehension, and speaking fluency — making it one of the most effective methods for IELTS Speaking preparation and real-world English communication.

Shadowing technique: read the full step-by-step guide →