In Photos: The Underrated Charm Of Phu Yen

Naturally endowed with mountains, stone cliffs, and nearly 200 kilometers of scenic shoreline, Phu Yen is a precious gem not too many international travelers know about. The coastal province lies in the central region, about 120 kilometers from the more-favored beach resort town of Nha Trang.

The off-the-beaten-track destination is blessed with pristine seas, glistening golden sand, storied fishing villages, mouthwatering seafood, and a distinct appeal that would capture the heart of anyone who sets foot in it. It’s described as “sleeping beauty” by those lucky enough to experience its quiet allure, just waiting for its time to wake and shine.

For French expat Benjamin Tortorelli, Phu Yen was a delightful discovery during the coronavirus lockdown in 2021. Benjamin, who works full-time as a product design lead and as an eager photographer when he travels around Vietnam, first visited Phu Yen in 2021 while driving from Quy Nhon to Tuy Hoa. He fell in love with how enchantingly calm it was without being monotonous.

“Phu Yen is a great province to visit. There are so many things you can do and see. If you just want to chill, then relax on one of the beaches or visit one of the nearby islands. Do you like to trek? Then climb to the top of one of the nearby mountains or trek to Vuc Phun waterfall. You’re into sightseeing? Then see Nghinh Phong Tower, Hon Yen, Mui Dien lighthouse, Vung Ro bay, Ganh Da Dia, etc. Just want to work? Then go sit at a nice beachfront café,” shares Benjamin.

Having started photography only in 2020, Benjamin has already taken tens of thousands of photos of Vietnam, each showing a unique perspective of this nation’s grandeur from an expat’s lens. Every time Benjamin’s shutter clicks, Vietnam becomes a beautiful story captured and told earnestly. Just like how Benjamin showed the underrated charm of Phu Yen through these ten awe-inspiring photos.