A Solo Journey to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

First Impressions of Con Dao: A Day of Discovery

After a long journey from Brampton, with a connecting flight in Ho Chi Minh City, I finally arrived on the Con Dao Islands, ready to embrace the tranquility and beauty I had heard so much about. This solo trip is a chance for me to reconnect with myself and experience a different pace of life. Today was all about immersing myself in the local culture and getting a taste – quite literally – of what Con Dao has to offer.

The weather in December is just lovely, with mild temperatures hovering around 26°C. The humidity is manageable, making it perfect for exploring. I'm so glad I packed my light, breathable clothing; it's exactly what I needed. I must admit, I did miss my sunglasses, a silly thing to forget, but I’ll manage.

A Morning at Côn Đảo Market

My first stop was the Côn Đảo Market. I always find that markets are the heart of any community, and this one was no exception. The vibrant atmosphere was immediately energizing. There was such a buzz with locals buying and selling everything from fresh seafood to exotic fruits and vegetables. I was immediately drawn to the seafood section, where the catch of the day was proudly displayed. I saw oysters, sea snails and so many other things I'd never seen before. I even saw some vendors cooking food right there, ready to eat! It was a feast for the senses!

I picked up some fresh fruit – I couldn't resist the mangoes and dragon fruit – and a few snacks for later. The vendors were incredibly friendly, and I even managed to practice a bit of my (very rusty) Vietnamese. It reminded me of the bustling markets back home in Kyenjojo, Uganda, though with a distinctly Vietnamese twist. I love how food brings people together, no matter where you are in the world.


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

Delving into History at Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo

Next on my list was the Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, the Con Dao Museum. Given Con Dao's history as a prison island, I felt it was important to understand the island's past before fully enjoying its present. The museum is housed in the former French commandant's residence, which added another layer of historical significance.

The museum has over 2000 exhibits, including rare documents and photographs, detailing the island's history, particularly the French colonial era and the prison period. I spent a few hours wandering through the exhibits, reading about the Vietnamese resistance against the French and the stories of the prisoners who were held here. It was a sobering experience, but one that gave me a deeper appreciation for the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people. It's a stark reminder of the struggles for independence and freedom that so many have endured.

Visiting historical sites connects us to the past, offering profound insights into the human spirit and the strength of communities.

Explore the profound history and stunning beauty of Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, a must-visit museum on Côn Đảo Island, Vietnam, for an enriching cultural experience.

A Culinary Journey: Breakfast at The Secret Restaurant

For breakfast, I decided to try The Secret Restaurant. It came highly recommended, and I was intrigued by its Mediterranean cuisine with a Vietnamese twist. The restaurant itself is beautiful, housed in a renovated French colonial-era villa. The outdoor seating was lovely, with a gentle breeze and the sounds of the ocean nearby.

I ordered the Shakshuka eggs, which were absolutely divine. The tomato sauce was rich and flavorful, and the eggs were perfectly cooked. It was a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors with local spices. The Secret Restaurant seems to focus on modernity rather than the heritage and hardships of the island's past. It reminded me a bit of some of the trendy brunch spots in Brampton, but with a unique Con Dao charm. It was a bit of a treat, as the prices were a little higher than other places, but definitely worth it for the ambiance and the delicious food.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at The Secret Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where every meal is a delightful journey into local flavors.

Lunch by the Market: Vietnamese By The Market

For lunch, I wanted something truly local, so I headed to Vietnamese By The Market. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I ordered the Pho Bo – beef noodles – which was highly recommended. The broth was fragrant and flavorful, and the noodles were perfectly cooked. It was exactly what I needed after a morning of exploring. The restaurant had a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I felt like I was getting a true taste of Con Dao's culinary culture. It reminded me of the comforting flavors of home, of the Ugandan dishes I cook for my family in Brampton. Food, indeed, is a universal language.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Côn Đảo's landscape.

Shopping for Souvenirs at Côn Đảo Gift

After lunch, I decided to do a little shopping. I stopped by Côn Đảo Gift, a local shop that sells a variety of souvenirs and local products. I wanted to find something special to bring back home to Moses and Hope. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf for Hope and a small wooden carving for Moses. I also picked up some local spices to try in my cooking back home. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and I was happy to find some unique and meaningful gifts.


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

Dinner at Con Son Seafood Restaurant

For dinner, I decided to indulge in some fresh seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its delicious and generous portions, and I was eager to try it out. I ordered the grilled shrimp with garlic butter, which was absolutely amazing. The shrimp was so fresh and flavorful, and the garlic butter sauce was the perfect complement. The service was fast and friendly, and the atmosphere was lively and inviting. I felt like I was getting an authentic Con Dao dining experience. It was a perfect end to a busy day of exploring. It's wonderful to see local restaurants thriving, offering fresh and delicious food to both locals and tourists.


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

Reflections on the Day

As the day comes to a close, I am sitting here in my guesthouse, reflecting on my first day in Con Dao. I am struck by the island's natural beauty, its rich history, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. I feel a sense of peace and tranquility here that I haven't felt in a long time. This solo trip is already proving to be exactly what I needed – a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with myself.

The weather is expected to remain pleasant, and I'm looking forward to visiting the Côn Đảo Prison and the Hàng Dương Cemetery tomorrow. It will be another opportunity to learn about the island's history and pay my respects to those who suffered here. I also plan to try Julia's Garden for breakfast, Madame Hà for lunch, and Nhà hàng Thu Ba for dinner. And perhaps, I'll end the day with a drink at the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House.

Con Dao has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am reminded of a quote I once read:

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

Indeed, this journey is already changing me, opening my eyes to new perspectives and reminding me of the importance of connection – to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to continue exploring all that Con Dao has to offer.