Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Con Dao Islands

A Journey Through Time

Today, Daniel and I embarked on a deeply moving journey through the heart of Con Dao's history. From the haunting grounds of a former prison to the vibrant flavors of local cuisine, it was a day of reflection, remembrance, and appreciation for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It's amazing how much history is packed into this small island, and how much it can teach you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. It's a cozy little place, and the strong Vietnamese coffee was exactly what we needed to prepare for the day ahead. Fortified, we set out to explore the historical sites that Con Dao is known for.

Our first stop was Sở Rẫy. It was a sobering experience to walk through the grounds and learn about its history. It’s hard to imagine the suffering that took place within those walls. The weight of the past was palpable, and it served as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. The December weather was mild, which made walking around the site more bearable, but no amount of sunshine could lighten the heavy atmosphere.


Explore Sở Rẫy, a captivating historical site in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, where Vietnam's rich culture meets stunning coastal landscapes.

Next, we visited the Côn Đảo Prison, a place synonymous with suffering and resilience. This prison, established by the French in 1862, held countless Vietnamese revolutionaries and patriots. As we walked through the cramped cells and solitary confinement areas, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sorrow and respect for those who endured unimaginable hardships here. Daniel and I took our time reading the exhibits, trying to absorb the magnitude of what happened within those walls. The infamous tiger cages were particularly disturbing, a grim reminder of the brutality inflicted upon the prisoners.


Explore the deep historical significance of Côn Đảo Prison, a poignant war museum on Con Dao Island, Vietnam, and reflect on the resilience of the human spirit.

Visiting such places is never easy, but it's crucial to understand history, to remember the struggles, and to honor those who fought for a better future.

After such an intense morning, we were ready for a change of pace. We headed to Con Son Seafood Restaurant for lunch. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the fresh seafood that Con Dao is famous for. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp stir-fry, and, of course, some local snails. The flavors were incredible, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs. It was a welcome contrast to the somber atmosphere of the morning, and it reminded us that life, even in a place with a dark past, goes on.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning coastal setting.

With our spirits lifted and our bellies full, we decided to do some shopping at Siêu thị đặc sản,quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển. I was on the hunt for souvenirs to bring back home, and Daniel was eager to find some local snacks to try. The supermarket had a wide array of local products, from dried seafood to handcrafted trinkets. I picked up some mứt hạt bàng (almond jam) and a few small gifts for our friends and family. Daniel, meanwhile, stocked up on various dried seafood items, eager to share the unique flavors of Con Dao with his colleagues back in Bristol.


Explore Hương Biển Specialty Supermarket in Côn Đảo for a unique shopping experience with local delicacies and memorable souvenirs.

As the afternoon wore on, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere and admiring the French colonial architecture. The weather in December is quite pleasant, with mild temperatures and gentle breezes, making it perfect for exploring on foot. We stopped at a local coffee shop for an afternoon pick-me-up, savoring the strong, aromatic Vietnamese coffee while watching the world go by. It's moments like these that I truly cherish – simple, unhurried, and filled with the quiet joy of discovery.

For dinner, we chose Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng - Seafood Restaurant, enticed by its reputation for fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant is located right by the harbor, and we were treated to a breathtaking sunset as we dined on grilled lobster and savory shrimp stir-fries. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were enhanced by the gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. It was the perfect way to end a day of remembrance and reflection.


Experience the freshest seafood delights with stunning views at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng in beautiful Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people. Con Dao's history is a testament to their unwavering spirit, and it's a story that deserves to be told and remembered. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures – a trip to Chim Chim cape and the Vietnam Heritage Tree – I carry with me a deeper understanding of this island's past and a profound appreciation for its present. I am looking forward to exploring more of Con Dao's natural beauty tomorrow, and hopefully gaining even more insight into the island's history and culture. I am also hoping to fit in a visit to LoCo Lodge & Pub in the evening.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a moment to walk along the beach under the starlit sky. The gentle sound of the waves was soothing, and the cool night air was refreshing. It was a perfect end to a day filled with history, reflection, and culinary delights. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Con Dao's unique blend of beauty and sorrow. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a reminder of the past and a beacon of hope for the future.