Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Con Dao Islands with My Husband

Island Bliss: Sunsets, Souvenirs, and Seafood

Today was a day of simple pleasures and stunning vistas here in the Con Dao Islands. Daniel and I set out to explore more of this beautiful island, and it turned out to be a perfect blend of natural beauty, local flavors, and a little bit of souvenir hunting. It’s amazing how quickly these islands have captured my heart, and I'm already dreading the thought of leaving in a few days.

Our day began, as most do on vacation, with a leisurely breakfast. We headed to The Den, a cozy spot known for its delicious coffee and pastries. I opted for a strong Vietnamese coffee and a flaky croissant, while Daniel went for a hearty bowl of pho. Sipping that rich, dark coffee while watching the island slowly wake up was the perfect way to start our day. It's funny, I never used to be a coffee person back in London, always opting for tea, but there's something about Vietnamese coffee that's completely won me over.

Fueled up and ready to go, our first stop was Bãi Nhát. I had seen pictures of this beach online, but nothing could have prepared me for its real-life beauty. As we arrived, the tide was low, revealing a vast expanse of golden sand stretching out towards the sea. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, creating a truly breathtaking scene. We spent a blissful hour or so walking along the shore, collecting seashells, and taking photos. The water was so clear and inviting, I couldn't resist dipping my toes in, even though it was a bit chilly. Daniel, ever the adventurer, even went for a quick swim! He emerged shivering but grinning, declaring it was worth it.


Discover the serene beauty of Bãi Nhát, a hidden coastal paradise on Côn Đảo Island, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones you stumble upon unexpectedly.

Next on our list was Chim Chim cape. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding along narrow coastal roads with stunning views of the ocean. When we arrived at the cape, we were greeted by a rocky, dramatic landscape. We clambered over the rocks, taking in the panoramic views of the coastline. The wind was strong, whipping our hair around our faces, but the views were absolutely worth it. I could see why this spot is so popular for sunset watching – the way the light hits the rocks and the sea is simply magical. I made a mental note to come back another evening with my camera to capture the perfect sunset shot.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chim Chim Cape, a scenic spot in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, where tranquility meets stunning coastal views.

After all that exploring, we were definitely ready for lunch. We decided to try Nhà hàng Thu Tâm, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled squid, steamed clams, and a spicy fish curry. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and we devoured every last bite. It was a wonderful experience to sit there, enjoying delicious food while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere of the island. I'm constantly amazed by the quality of the seafood here; it's so different from what we get back in London.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm in Côn Đảo – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.

With our bellies full, we decided to do a bit of shopping. I wanted to find some unique souvenirs to take back home, so we headed to Siêu thị đặc sản, quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển. This shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, delicacies, and souvenirs. I spent ages browsing the shelves, eventually settling on some hand-painted ceramics, a jar of local honey, and a few packets of mứt hạt bàng (a local almond candy). Daniel, of course, gravitated towards the hải sản khô (dried seafood) section , stocking up on mực khô (dried squid) and cá thu một nắng (sun-dried fish) to bring back to his friends in London. I think they'll get more enjoyment out of it than some generic souvenir.


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

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm. This restaurant came highly recommended for its romantic ambiance and delicious food. We sat at a table overlooking the sea, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves. The food was exquisite – we shared a seafood platter and a bottle of local wine. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these simple moments of connection with Daniel. Sometimes, life in London can get so hectic that we forget to slow down and enjoy each other's company. This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the importance of taking time to relax, explore, and simply be together. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include visits to Sở Lò Vôi and Sở Rẫy, and perhaps a relaxing drink at Bar 200 - By The Beach. Until then, I'm going to savor the memories of today and drift off to sleep to the sound of the ocean.

I'm also thinking about what souvenirs to get for my friends back home. I know they'd appreciate something unique and authentic from Con Dao, so I'll keep my eyes peeled for special items that capture the essence of this island paradise. Perhaps some local crafts or delicacies would be a perfect way to share a piece of Con Dao with them.

It’s funny how travel changes you. I feel more relaxed, more open to new experiences, and more grateful for the simple things in life. Con Dao has a way of stripping away the unnecessary and reminding you of what truly matters: good company, beautiful surroundings, and delicious food. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I’m content to soak in the peace and tranquility of this magical place. Good night from Con Dao!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore some of the historical sites, including Sở Lò Vôi and Sở Rẫy. It will be a day of delving into the island's past, and I'm looking forward to learning more about its rich history. And in the evening, we might unwind with a drink at Bar 200 - By The Beach, a popular spot known for its cocktails and laid-back atmosphere.