Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Con Dao Islands with My Husband

A Day of Discovery in Con Dao

Our adventure in the Con Dao Islands has begun, and what a start it has been! Today was all about immersing ourselves in the local culture and paying our respects to the island's poignant history. From the vibrant Côn Đảo Market to the solemn Hang Duong Cemetery, every moment was filled with new experiences and reflections.


Explore the vibrant Côn Đảo Market, where local culture thrives through fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique handmade crafts.

After a long journey from London, with a layover in Ho Chi Minh City , Daniel and I were eager to stretch our legs and dive into the heart of Con Dao. The weather in November is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F), making it ideal for exploring. We quickly learned that November is considered a good time to visit due to the comfortable weather and lower humidity.

Our first stop was the Côn Đảo Market. It was a feast for the senses! The market was bustling with locals buying and selling everything from fresh seafood to colorful fruits and vegetables. The energy was infectious, and we couldn't help but get caught up in the lively atmosphere. We wandered through the stalls, marveling at the variety of goods on offer. I was particularly fascinated by the seafood section, where vendors displayed an array of just-caught fish, crabs, and snails. Daniel, ever the adventurous foodie, was keen to try some of the local street food.

We sampled some delicious deep-fried banana sticks, a local favorite. They were crispy on the outside and sweet and soft on the inside – the perfect energy boost for our explorations. The market also offered a glimpse into the spiritual side of the island, with many stalls selling flowers and praying items. These are often purchased by locals and tourists alike to offer to the deceased heroes who perished in the Con Dao prisons. I picked up a few small trinkets as souvenirs, promising myself to return later for some fresh produce.

For breakfast, we decided to try Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining. This place is truly a hidden gem! The cafe has a charming and welcoming atmosphere, with lots of plants and cute cats roaming around. The owner, Hoa, is incredibly friendly and makes you feel right at home. We enjoyed delicious dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced from the garden on the property. I had the mulberry mojito, which was excellent. It's a bit out of town, but definitely worth the short scooter ride.


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.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from the simplest moments, like sharing a meal in a tranquil garden or paying respects to those who came before us.

After a refreshing morning, we moved on to the somber yet significant Hang Duong Cemetery. This is the final resting place of thousands of revolutionary fighters and patriots who died in Con Dao. As we walked through the cemetery, we were struck by the sheer number of graves, many of which are unmarked. It was a humbling experience to pay our respects to those who sacrificed their lives for the independence and freedom of Vietnam. The cemetery is divided into four zones, and is the resting place of notable figures such as Nguyễn An Ninh, Lê Hồng Phong, and Võ Thị Sáu.


Explore Hang Duong Cemetery in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, a serene memorial honoring Vietnam's brave heroes and rich cultural heritage.

The atmosphere was incredibly moving, especially as the evening approached and more visitors came to pay their respects. It's a place where you can feel the weight of history and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. Despite the sadness, there was also a sense of peace and reverence in the air. The cemetery stands as a testament to the sacrifices made for the nation's freedom.

For lunch, we chose An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, drawn in by its cozy and plant-filled atmosphere. It felt like stepping into someone's home, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. We opted for the outdoor seating to enjoy the peaceful island vibes. The menu was packed with nutritious options, including vegan-friendly dishes. I had a refreshing tofu noodle salad, while Daniel enjoyed a hearty Vietnamese dish.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House. It was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day's experiences. With a glass of local wine in hand, we chatted about the market's vibrant energy and the cemetery's poignant atmosphere. It's amazing how much history and culture can be absorbed in just a few hours!


Discover the tranquil charm of Côn Đảo House, where exquisite wines and aromatic coffee meet the beauty of Vietnam's serene landscapes.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo for dinner. This restaurant is a hidden gem, offering delicious homemade pasta dishes and amazing cocktails. The vibe was cozy, and the owners were incredibly friendly and passionate about their food. I tried the spicy butter shrimp, while Daniel opted for the chocolate cheesecake. The restaurant caters to vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters alike, providing well-presented and flavorful options.


Experience culinary excellence at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails in Côn Đảo – where fusion flavors meet stunning ocean views.

The Beach House is slightly off the main road but definitely worth finding. The atmosphere feels like dining at home, and the prices are reasonable. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Con Dao. The weather in Con Dao during November is generally mild, with temperatures around 27°C. Rainfall is possible, with an average of 18.5 rainy days in the month.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Côn Đảo National Park Tourist Office and Hòn Bảy Cạnh. I'm particularly excited about visiting Hòn Bảy Cạnh, as it's known for its sea turtle nesting grounds. We'll also be trying out Infinity Cafe & Restaurant for breakfast, Nhà hàng Phố Biển for lunch, and The Secret Restaurant for dinner. And of course, we'll be sure to stop by Côn Đảo Gift to pick up some souvenirs.

Con Dao has already captured our hearts with its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings!

I'm also glad I remembered to pack light, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and my camera. However, I wish I hadn't forgotten the bug spray and portable phone charger. Those would have been useful today!

Tonight, as I write this, I can't help but feel grateful for this experience. It's a reminder of the importance of remembering history and cherishing the present. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!