Family Adventure in the Pristine Con Dao Islands

Con Dao's Contrasts: History and Beauty

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of somber reflection and breathtaking natural beauty that truly captured the essence of Con Dao. We delved into the island's poignant history and soaked in the stunning coastal views. It's amazing how one small island can hold so much history and beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yin Yang. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, while Klara enjoyed some fresh tropical fruit. Mateo, of course, was all about the pancakes. It's becoming a tradition for us to try local breakfast spots, and Yin Yang didn't disappoint. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the food gave us the perfect start to a day of exploration.

After breakfast, we set out to Mũi Cá Mập (Shark Cape). The drive there was scenic, with glimpses of the turquoise sea peeking through the lush greenery. When we arrived, the view was simply stunning. The cape itself is a dramatic rock formation jutting out into the ocean, resembling a shark's nose from certain angles. Mateo was fascinated, pointing out the 'shark' and making up stories about what it might be doing under the water. Klara and I just stood there for a moment, taking in the panoramic vista of the coastline, the waves crashing against the rocks, and the endless horizon. It was the perfect spot for some family photos, capturing the raw beauty of Con Dao.


Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Mũi Cả Mập, a breathtaking coastal destination in Côn Đảo, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
We spent a good hour exploring the area around Mũi Cá Mập. Mateo, ever the adventurer, insisted on climbing every rock he could find, while Klara and I strolled along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. The December weather was ideal, with clear skies and a pleasant temperature, making it perfect for outdoor activities. I think it is amazing to find such raw beauty that is not heavily impacted by tourism.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from places where history and nature intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

For lunch, we headed to Nhà hàng Phố Biển. The restaurant had a charming, rustic vibe, with open-air seating that offered stunning ocean views. We ordered a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, prawns, and squid, all incredibly fresh and flavorful. Mateo, surprisingly, enjoyed the grilled fish, declaring it 'the best fish ever'. Klara and I savored every bite, appreciating the simple yet exquisite flavors of Vietnamese seafood. It's these moments, sharing a delicious meal with my family in a beautiful setting, that make our travels so special. I am starting to feel very appreciative of the local cuisine here in Con Dao.

In the afternoon, we visited the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. This was a deeply moving experience, a stark reminder of the island's history as a place of imprisonment and suffering during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War. Vo Thi Sau was a young revolutionary who was executed on Con Dao at the age of 19 and is now considered a national hero. The cemetery was serene and well-maintained, a place of quiet reflection and respect. We saw many locals paying their respects, lighting incense and leaving flowers.


Explore the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave, a serene memorial to Vietnam's revolutionary hero, nestled in the lush landscapes of Ba Ria - Vung Tau.
Standing at her grave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness and admiration. Sadness for the young life lost, and admiration for her courage and sacrifice. It was a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of fighting for freedom and justice. I explained to Mateo, as best I could, who Vo Thi Sau was and why she was so important to the Vietnamese people. He listened intently, his young mind trying to grasp the complexities of history.

After the somber visit to the grave, we needed something to lift our spirits, so we decided to visit the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House. This cozy little bar was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The bar had a laid-back atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a wide selection of drinks. I enjoyed a glass of local Vietnamese wine, while Klara opted for a refreshing coffee. Mateo, of course, was happy with his juice. It was a great way to end the day, relaxing and chatting about our experiences.


Discover the tranquil charm of Côn Đảo House, where exquisite wines and aromatic coffee meet the beauty of Vietnam's serene landscapes.
For dinner, we chose Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm. This restaurant is known for serving groups and offers both English and Vietnamese menus. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but we were seated quickly and the service was friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh spring rolls, seafood fried rice, and a delicious chicken curry. The food was excellent, and the portions were generous. Mateo especially loved the spring rolls, devouring them with gusto.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the contrasts of our experiences. The beauty of Mũi Cá Mập, the solemnity of Vo Thi Sau's grave, and the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Con Dao is a place that touches your heart and challenges your perspective. It's a place of both immense beauty and profound sadness, a place that reminds you of the resilience of the human spirit.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Di tích Bãi Sọ Người and Hòn Bảy Cạnh. I am sure it will be another day filled with memorable experiences.

Back at our guesthouse, I am already looking forward to tomorrow. I am also aware that we need to buy mosquito repellent, as I forgot to pack it. Also a waterproof backpack would have been useful.

Good night from Con Dao.