Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Con Dao Islands with My Husband

A Day of Remembrance and Relaxation

Today, Daniel and I embarked on a journey through the somber history of Con Dao, followed by an evening of relaxation by the sea. It was a day of stark contrasts, balancing the weight of the past with the serene beauty of the present. We aimed to understand more about the island's story, and find moments of peace amidst its profound history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. I had read so many good things about it, and it was just a short scooter ride from where we are staying. The cafe is run by a mother-daughter duo who relocated from Central Vietnam, and the place had such a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you instantly feel at home, surrounded by lush greenery and the aroma of freshly baked bread. Daniel opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, while I couldn't resist trying their avocado toast – a perfect blend of local and international flavors. The owner was happy to share some travel tips, which we found very helpful. It’s these little gems that make travelling so worthwhile, and it's always a pleasure to support local businesses that are passionate about what they do.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.

With our stomachs full and spirits lifted, we set off to explore the historical sites of Con Dao. First on our list was Sở Lò Vôi (Lime Kiln). The name “Lò Vôi” means “lime kiln”, originating from a lime kiln near the beach. The lime kiln stands as a stark reminder of the island's dark past, a place where Vietnamese political prisoners were forced to burn coral to make lime for the French colonists' construction projects. Standing there, I could almost hear the echoes of the past, the suffering and resilience of those who were forced to labor under such inhumane conditions. It was a sobering experience, a stark reminder of the price of freedom and the importance of remembering the sacrifices of those who came before us.


Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Sở Lò Vôi, a hidden coastal gem in Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

     History is not just a collection of dates and facts; it's a living narrative that shapes our present and guides our future.

Next, we visited Sở Rẫy, another historical site that served as a prison camp during the French colonial era. Although less known than the infamous Con Dao Prison, Sở Rẫy held its own share of horrors, with countless prisoners enduring brutal treatment and inhumane conditions. Walking through the grounds, I felt a deep sense of sadness and respect for those who had suffered there. It's hard to imagine the strength and resilience it must have taken to survive such hardship, to hold onto hope in the face of despair. These sites serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of human rights and the need to fight against oppression in all its forms.


Explore the captivating historical site of Sở Rẫy in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where rich culture meets stunning natural beauty.

After a morning steeped in history, we were ready for a change of pace. We headed to Nhà hàng Nam Dinh for lunch, a local favorite known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Daniel and I shared a steaming bowl of Pho, savoring the rich, aromatic broth and tender noodles. It was the perfect comfort food after such an emotionally heavy morning, and a welcome reminder of the simple pleasures in life. The restaurant was bustling with locals, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a great opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and enjoy the flavors of Vietnam.


Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh in beautiful Côn Đảo - where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at Bar 200 - By The Beach. This place had been recommended to us for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beach views. We settled into some comfortable bean bag chairs right on the sand, ordered a couple of cocktails, and watched the sun slowly sink below the horizon. The music was chill, the breeze was gentle, and the company was perfect. It was exactly what we needed after a day of exploring and reflecting. Daniel and I chatted about our experiences, sharing our thoughts and feelings about the historical sites we had visited. We talked about the importance of remembering the past, but also of living in the present and appreciating the beauty around us.


Experience the perfect blend of beach vibes and culinary delights at Bar 200 in Côn Đảo, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

For dinner, we opted for Quán Cơm Su Su, a local eatery known for its delicious and affordable dishes. The restaurant was simple but clean, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I ordered the crispy chicken, while Daniel went for the braised pork. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. It was the perfect way to end a long and eventful day.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Quán Cơm Su Su in beautiful Côn Đảo, where flavor meets affordability.

As we walked back to our guesthouse under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this experience. Con Dao is a place of contrasts, a place where beauty and sorrow intertwine, where history and nature collide. It's a place that challenges you to confront the past, to appreciate the present, and to hope for a better future.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Island Chief Palace and Di tích Bãi Sọ Người. It will undoubtedly be another day filled with historical significance, and I am eager to learn more about this fascinating island. Maybe we'll also stop by Hani Bakery 2 for a treat. For now, I'm content to drift off to sleep, dreaming of the sea, the sun, and the stories of Con Dao. Good night from Con Dao!

The weather in Con Dao in November is generally pleasant, with temperatures around 83°F (28°C) during the day and mild humidity. There are usually about 5 hours of sunshine per day, but also some rainfall. It's a good idea to pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and an umbrella or raincoat.