A Solo Journey to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

A Day of Island Contemplation

Today was a day of quiet reflection, a gentle exploration of Con Dao's spiritual heart and natural beauty. It's funny, isn't it? How a place with such a heavy history can also hold so much peace. I found myself drawn to both the solemnity and the serenity, each offering a different perspective on this unique island.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant. I must say, the name is quite fitting! Sipping on a strong Vietnamese coffee while overlooking the serene surroundings was the perfect way to start the day. The cafe had a lively atmosphere, and it seemed like a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It's always a joy to find a place that feels both welcoming and authentic.


Discover delectable Vietnamese cuisine at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant, where breathtaking views meet culinary excellence in Côn Đảo.

After breakfast, I decided to embrace the cultural side of Con Dao with a visit to Van Son Pagoda. Known locally as Chùa Núi Một, the Van Son Pagoda is the only Buddhist temple on the island. The pagoda sits on the slopes of Nui Mot Mountain and faces the East Sea, holding a solid and sacred position. As I ascended the steps, I could feel a sense of tranquility washing over me. The air was filled with the scent of incense, and the sound of chanting monks created a soothing ambiance. The history of the pagoda is quite fascinating, having been established in 1964. It served as a place of prayer for those who had died in the Con Dao prison system. It's incredible how a place of such sorrow could evolve into a sanctuary of peace. I spent some time meditating in the main hall, reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit. It was a truly moving experience. The views from the pagoda were breathtaking, overlooking Con Son Bay and the An Hai Lotus Pond. I could see why this place is considered one of the most revered spiritual sites in Con Dao.


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

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those we take within ourselves, guided by the whispers of history and the embrace of nature.

Next on my itinerary was Mũi Cá Mập, or Shark Cape. I had heard so much about this natural landmark, and I was eager to see it for myself. The drive there along Ben Dam Road was scenic, with glimpses of the coastline peeking through the lush greenery. As I arrived, I was immediately struck by the majestic rocky cliffs and the expansive coastline. The cape truly does resemble a shark's fin jutting out into the sea. I spent some time exploring the area, taking in the panoramic views. The waves crashed against the rocks, creating a symphony of sound. It was the perfect spot to simply sit and contemplate the vastness of the ocean. I can imagine that camping overnight here would be an unforgettable experience. The cool evening sea breeze and the captivating views would make for a truly magical night. I made a mental note to consider that for my next visit. I also learned that the best time for recreational activities here, like swimming, is from May to September.


Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Mũi Cà Mau, a hidden gem in Vietnam's Ba Ria - Vung Tau region.

For lunch, I ventured to An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, a charming eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients. I decided to try their Banh Xeo, a crispy Vietnamese crepe, and it was absolutely delicious. The cafe had a cozy and inviting vibe, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It felt like a true culinary gem in Con Dao. They also serve delicious wholewheat bread, which I'll have to try next time. I overheard other diners praising the vegan and gluten-free options available. It's wonderful to see a restaurant catering to diverse dietary needs.


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

In the afternoon, I decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Hin Beautytips. I wasn't necessarily looking for anything in particular, but I always enjoy browsing local shops to get a sense of the local culture. The shop had a wide array of cosmetics, accessories, clothing, and perfumes. It was a fun way to spend some time and perhaps pick up a little souvenir. I ended up buying a small bottle of locally made perfume with a floral scent. It will be a nice reminder of my time in Con Dao.


Discover the essence of beauty and style at Hin Beautytips, your go-to cosmetics and fashion stop in beautiful Côn Đảo.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Nhà hàng Phố Biển for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant has a rustic design and a breezy atmosphere. I opted for the grilled squid, and it was cooked to perfection. The flavors were simple yet exquisite, allowing the freshness of the seafood to shine through. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and reflection. The restaurant is half open-air, which allows diners to enjoy the beautiful sea view while they eat.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà hàng Phố Biển in Côn Đảo - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Hòn Bảy Cạnh and Dat Tham Beach. I've heard that Hòn Bảy Cạnh is a haven for marine life, and I'm excited to see the turtles. Dat Tham Beach is supposed to be a secluded paradise, perfect for some quiet time by the sea. I'm also considering visiting On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar in the evening. It sounds like a great place to unwind and enjoy the island's nightlife. Before heading to these places, I will have breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE and then lunch at Nhà hàng Poulo Condore. For dinner, I will visit ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Con Dao. It's a place that challenges you to confront its difficult past while also inviting you to embrace its natural beauty. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left its shores. I am glad I decided to come on this solo trip. It has given me the space to reflect and the freedom to explore at my own pace. It's a journey I will cherish forever. I even managed to use some of the essentials I brought along, like my sunscreen and insect repellent. I am glad I remembered to pack them. I still wish I had brought my sunglasses, though.

Back in Brampton, Moses and Hope will be eager to hear about my adventures. I can already picture Hope's eyes widening as I describe the pristine beaches and the vibrant marine life. And I know Moses will appreciate the historical significance of the island, especially the Van Son Pagoda. I am so grateful for their love and support, which makes these journeys even more meaningful. I can't wait to share stories and photos with them when I return. I know they would love to try the food here as well, especially the seafood.

Perhaps one day, we can all come back together and experience the magic of Con Dao as a family. That would be a dream come true.