Breathtaking photos of net-fishing are one of the reasons Phu Yen has garnered attention over the years, but it also signifies a lifestyle deeply connected to nature. | Photo: Benjamin Tortorelli
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.
Benjamin Tortorelli
“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.
Still relatively crowd-free, Phu Yen boasts clean shorelines and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliThe Ong Cop wooden bridge, which spans 800 meters, connects the northern villages of An Ninh Tay commune with Song Cau town. It's considered the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliThe Thien Hung Pagoda is both an architectural and spiritual attraction in the province. This ancient structure houses statues and stone carvings that are significant to the Vietnamese. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliThe jade waters of Hon Yen serves as an enthralling backdrop for this large fishing net cast by a local fisherman. Breathtaking photos of net-fishing are one of the reasons the province has garnered attention over the years, but it also signifies a lifestyle deeply connected to nature. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliHon Yen is one of nature's most beautiful masterpieces. Geological experts said that Hon Yen was formed by process of tectonic activities similar to that of Da Dia Reef. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliA familiar landmark to the Nau people, Dai Lanh lighthouse stands tall and proud on a cliff overlooking the Bai Mon beach. Built in the 19th century, the lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the wide ocean while playing an important role for the ships navigating the deep waters. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliAn enthralling view of Phuoc Giang village. The different shades of green surrounding the cluster of houses depict how the locals co-exist with nature, taking advantage of its abundant gifts while also preserving its glory. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliLocals have been making salt for over 300 years here in Tuyet Diem. Salt-making is said to be more challenging the farming, as workers can only do their craft during the sunny months. But it has become an integral part of Phu Yen, a cultural element that's passed down from generation to generation. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliAbout 20 kilometers south of Tuy Hoa City, Vuc Phun is a rugged beauty blanketed by lush flora. Vuc Phun has an enormous waterfall created by the strong currents of Cai Stream, but its cool waters are ideal for swimming or a quick dip. Camping and mountain climbing are also recommended within the area for adventurers at heart. | Photo: Benjamin TortorelliThe small bay of Vung Ro, adjacent to Dai Lanh Sea, is a natural boundary between Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa. It features small sandy beaches where one can immerse in the quiet, taking in the fresh air and the magic of this stunning spot concealed from the crowd. | Photo: Benjamin Tortorelli
