Exploring the Pristine Beauty of Con Dao Islands with Friends

A Day of Reflection and Discovery

Today, Olivia and I, along with our friends, sought to deepen our understanding of Con Dao, moving beyond its stunning beaches to explore its historical and spiritual heart. We aimed to connect with the island's story, its past leaders, and its enduring spirit. This exploration led us to the Island Chief Palace and the serene Van Son Pagoda, offering a glimpse into the layers of Con Dao's identity.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. I opted for a strong Vietnamese coffee, the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The cafe was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this island paradise. Olivia chose a matcha latte and a pastry, which she enjoyed immensely. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a good cup of coffee and even better company.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Island Chief Palace. The palace, also known as the Lord's Palace, once housed the island's leaders during the colonial era. Walking through its rooms, I couldn't help but reflect on the weight of history that permeated the air. The palace served as a stark reminder of Con Dao's past as a prison island, a place of suffering and oppression. It's a sobering experience, but an important one for understanding the island's journey.

Visiting historical sites allows us to understand the layers of a place, acknowledging both its beauty and its burdens.

The Island Chief Palace, located on Ton Duc Thang Street, is hard to miss. The well-maintained garden that surrounds the palace offered a striking contrast to the harsh realities of the nearby prison camps. Inside, we saw artifacts from the lives of the 53 Island Lords who lived and worked there between 1862 and 1975. It was a poignant reminder of the island's complex history, a blend of colonial power and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.


Explore the Island Chief Palace, a historical gem in Con Dao, Vietnam, showcasing rich culture, stunning architecture, and captivating stories from the past.

From the palace, we journeyed to Van Son Pagoda, also known as Nui Mot Pagoda. Perched on the slopes of Nui Mot Mountain, the pagoda offered a tranquil escape from the heat and hustle of the town. The views from the pagoda were breathtaking, overlooking Con Son Bay and the East Sea. The air was filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of chanting, creating a sense of peace and serenity.

Van Son Pagoda is the only Buddhist temple on Con Dao Island, making it a significant spiritual landmark. Originally established in 1964, the pagoda served as a meditation hall and a place to honor those who died in the Con Dao prison system. It fell into disrepair over time but was renovated in 2010, thanks to the support of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. Today, it stands as a symbol of compassion and enlightenment on the island.

Inside the temple grounds, we admired the 2-meter-tall statue of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, a symbol of compassion and wisdom. The main hall enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, and Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha. The pagoda's architecture and serene ambiance made it a perfect place for reflection and contemplation.


Explore the serene beauty of Van Son Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.

After our morning of cultural immersion, hunger called, and we headed to Nhà hàng Poulo Condore for lunch. This restaurant, part of the Saigon Con Dao Resort, offered a delightful menu of Vietnamese and international dishes. We savored fresh seafood, a must-try when visiting Con Dao, while enjoying the beautiful ocean views. Olivia and I shared a plate of grilled prawns, while our friends opted for traditional Vietnamese pho. The restaurant's ambiance was relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Poulo Condore in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

With our bellies full and spirits lifted, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Côn Đảo Gift. This shop offered a variety of handcrafted items, unique gifts, and traditional Vietnamese goods. I picked up a few souvenirs for my family back in Toronto, while Olivia found a beautiful silk scarf. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.


Explore Côn Đảo Gift for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining for dinner. This charming cafe, tucked away from the town center, was a hidden gem. The garden setting was enchanting, with twinkling lights and lush greenery. The owner, Hoa, was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.

The menu featured an array of delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the garden. We enjoyed stir-fried noodles and mushroom with beef, all bursting with flavor. The cafe's commitment to sustainability and its warm atmosphere made it a perfect ending to our day.


Discover culinary delights at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining in Côn Đảo, where every meal is a celebration of Vietnamese flavors amidst stunning scenery.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Con Dao had to offer beyond its beaches. The Island Chief Palace and Van Son Pagoda provided a deeper understanding of the island's history and culture. The local cuisine and the warmth of the people made the experience even more memorable.

As we strolled back to our guesthouse, Olivia and I discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're excited to explore Hòn Tre Lớn and Bãi Nhát, two more of Con Dao's natural wonders. We'll also be trying out MAY BISTRO for breakfast, Nhà hàng Nam Dinh for lunch, and The Secret Restaurant for dinner. And of course, we'll be ending the day with drinks at the Sunset Lounge, watching the sun dip below the horizon.

The weather in Con Dao in January is generally dry and mild, making it an excellent time to explore the island. The average temperature is around 27°C (81°F) during the day and 23°C (73°F) at night. While the sea can be rough and windy, it also provides unique opportunities for snorkeling and diving. We're looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful island paradise.

Back at the guesthouse, I took a moment to check in with Olivia, making sure she was enjoying the trip as much as I was. It’s important to me that we both get the most out of these experiences, especially since we don’t get to travel together as often as we’d like. She told me she was having a wonderful time, and that she was especially touched by the visit to Van Son Pagoda. Olivia has always been drawn to places of spiritual significance, and she found the pagoda to be a peaceful and inspiring place.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I’m reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to experience these incredible places with Olivia and our friends. It’s not just about seeing new sights, but about connecting with the history, culture, and people of each destination. And Con Dao has certainly left an indelible mark on my soul.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Con Dao's natural beauty, with a visit to Hòn Tre Lớn and Bãi Nhát. I’m particularly excited about visiting Bãi Nhát, which I’ve heard is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. We’ll also be trying out some new restaurants, including MAY BISTRO for breakfast and Nhà hàng Nam Dinh for lunch. And of course, we’ll be ending the day with drinks at the Sunset Lounge, watching the sun dip below the horizon. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

For now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. Goodnight from Con Dao!

I also took some time to reflect on the things I had forgotten to pack. A portable power bank would have been incredibly useful, especially since we've been taking so many photos and videos. A waterproof phone case would also have been a good idea, given the potential for rain and rough seas. And extra memory cards for the camera are always a must, especially when visiting such a photogenic place.

Despite these minor oversights, I'm grateful for the opportunity to be here in Con Dao, exploring its beauty and learning about its history. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with the world and with each other. And as I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with anticipation for the adventures that await us tomorrow.