When you think Asian tropical beach destination, several things come to mind: swaying coconut trees, lounger-studded beaches, tourist hordes and bustling local businesses. That is what I'm expecting of Vietnam’s southeastern Ninh Thuan province, after hopping onto a Mercedes-Benz SUV at Cam Ranh Airport, where I arrive via a short transit flight from Ho Chi Minh City. The next 75 minutes turns out a completely unexpected, jaw-droppingly stunning drive to Amanoi.
Along a gently winding road cut into hilly terrain, we cruise past an idyllic landscape that alternates between rice paddies, flooded river systems, and small, sleepy seafront villages with modern fishing operations and neatly docked boats. Soon enough, the full glory of Vinh Hy Bay reveals itself-mesmerising turquoise waters lapping onto pristine beaches in numerous deserted bays and coves, with nary a soul or hospitality operation in sight. Instead of tall palms on flat groves, the shore is dotted with jagged cliffs and rocky outcrops swathed in low shrubbery, standing sentinel over distant villages.
This is the Mediterranea of Asia, I think to myself. I could be in Sicily or Corsica. It's not just the scenery, but the sheer sense of isolation. There are barely any vehicles on the scenic route (which happens to be so well-paved it trumps some stretches of Bukit Timah Road), and not a soul appears to be out and about. Time seems to stand still, and this level of tranquillity and authenticity is not something I've seen in a long time. Spotless, noiseless and picture-perfect, this secluded stretch of Vietnam feels surreal.
THE AMAN WAY
Denne historien er fra May 2023-utgaven av Prestige Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra May 2023-utgaven av Prestige Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.
