Family Adventure in the Pristine Con Dao Islands

Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future

Today was a day of stark contrasts, a journey through the shadows of Con Dao's past and the vibrant beauty of its present. It’s a delicate balance to appreciate the natural wonders while honoring the profound history etched into this island. Today, Klara, Mateo, and I navigated this balance, seeking to understand and remember, while also finding moments of peace and joy.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. Fueled up with a strong Vietnamese coffee and some delicious pastries, we set out to confront the island's somber history at Di tích Bãi Sọ Người, also known as the 'Di tích Bãi Sọ Người'.


Discover Vietnam's rich history at Di Tích Bãi Sọ Người, a serene landmark that tells stories of resilience and cultural heritage.
The morning mist hung heavy as we arrived at the site, a place where unspeakable atrocities occurred. It's a place where the French colonialists, in a horrific act, buried alive 20 prisoners who had been forced to bury over 100 corpses. Standing there, I felt a chill that had nothing to do with the weather. The silence was deafening, broken only by the rustling of leaves in the nearby trees. I tried to imagine the suffering, the fear, and the resilience of those who were imprisoned and lost their lives on this island. It was a sobering experience, a stark reminder of the depths of human cruelty and the price of freedom.

Mateo, thankfully, was too young to fully grasp the gravity of the site, but Klara and I made sure to explain in simple terms the importance of remembering such events, so that we can learn from them and strive for a more just and compassionate world. It's a tough conversation to have with a child, but I believe it's essential to instill in him a sense of empathy and a commitment to human rights.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places hold the darkest secrets, and it is our duty to remember both.

Leaving Bãi Sọ Người, we needed a change of scenery, a breath of fresh air to clear our minds. Our next stop was Hòn Bảy Cạnh, an island known for its pristine beaches, lush mangrove forests, and vibrant coral reefs. After a short boat ride, we arrived at this natural paradise, a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere we had just left behind.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Hòn Bảy Cạnh in Con Dao, a serene island paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Hòn Bảy Cạnh, the second largest island in the Con Dao archipelago, is a haven for biodiversity. The island is named for its seven sandy beaches that form a polygon shape. As we stepped onto the shore, the turquoise water sparkled under the midday sun, and the white sand felt soft beneath our feet. Mateo was immediately captivated, running towards the water with gleeful abandon. Klara and I followed, our spirits lifting with each step.

We spent the afternoon exploring the island's natural wonders. We snorkeled in the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the colorful coral reefs and the myriad of fish darting among them. Mateo was particularly thrilled, pointing out every Nemo and Dory he could find. Klara, ever the marine enthusiast, was in her element, identifying different species of coral and explaining their importance to the ecosystem.

After our snorkeling adventure, we hiked through the mangrove forest, a unique ecosystem teeming with life. We spotted land crabs scuttling among the roots of the mangrove trees, and birds soaring overhead. It was a fascinating experience, a chance to witness the intricate web of life that thrives in this protected environment. I was reminded of the importance of preserving these natural habitats, not just for the sake of biodiversity, but also for the benefit of future generations.

One of the highlights of Hòn Bảy Cạnh is its sea turtle conservation program. From April to October, sea turtles come to the island to lay their eggs, and the conservation center works tirelessly to protect these endangered creatures. While we weren't lucky enough to witness the turtles laying their eggs, we learned about the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these magnificent animals. It was inspiring to see the dedication of the conservationists and the positive impact they are having on the turtle population.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Con Son, our hearts full of gratitude for the beauty and tranquility of Hòn Bảy Cạnh. The contrast between the morning's somber reflection and the afternoon's joyful exploration was striking, yet both experiences were essential to understanding the complexities of Con Dao. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, where sorrow and beauty coexist, and where the human spirit can find both challenge and solace.

Before dinner, we stopped by Mocoda Shop to pick up some snacks and souvenirs. It's a great little shop with a variety of local products. Mateo, of course, wanted some sweets, so we let him choose a few treats as a reward for his good behavior throughout the day.


Explore Côn Đảo with ease at Mocoda Shop, your go-to convenience store for snacks and local products in Vietnam's beautiful island paradise.
For dinner, we decided to try The Secret Restaurant, a place recommended for its Mediterranean cuisine and seafood. The restaurant is nestled in a beautiful old villa with French Indochinese architecture, creating a unique and romantic ambiance. The food was delicious, a fusion of Mediterranean flavors with local specialties. We savored every bite, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the stunning waterfront views.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at The Secret Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where every meal is a delightful journey into local flavors.
As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. From the poignant history of Bãi Sọ Người to the natural beauty of Hòn Bảy Cạnh, Con Dao had once again captivated us with its unique blend of sorrow and serenity. It's a place that challenges you to confront the past while also embracing the present, a place where you can find both darkness and light.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Vietnam Heritage Tree and the Hang Duong Cemetery. It seems our journey through Con Dao's history is far from over, and I'm both humbled and eager to learn more. We'll start the day with breakfast at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo, followed by a visit to the Heritage Tree and the Hang Duong Cemetery. For lunch, we plan to try Nhà hàng Nam Dinh, and in the evening, we'll have dinner at Nhà hàng Phố Biển. And perhaps, after dinner, we'll stop by LoCo Lodge & Pub for a nightcap. It promises to be another day filled with reflection and discovery, and I'm excited to share it with you all.

Despite the emotional weight of today, I feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Con Dao with my family. It's a place that stays with you long after you leave, a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of nature.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a moment to stargaze. The night sky in Con Dao is incredibly clear, and we were able to see countless stars twinkling above us. It was a perfect end to a day of remembrance and reflection, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found.

And as I close this entry, I am reminded of the simple pleasures of travel – good food, beautiful scenery, and the company of loved ones. But more than that, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to connect with the world in a meaningful way. Con Dao has challenged me, inspired me, and touched me in ways I never expected, and I know that its lessons will stay with me long after we leave this island paradise.

Tomorrow, we continue our exploration, delving deeper into the history and culture of Con Dao. Stay tuned for more tales from this captivating island!