Family Adventure in the Pristine Con Dao Islands

Con Dao's Embrace: Beach Bliss and Nature's Wonders

Another day, another adventure in the beautiful Con Dao Islands! Today was all about soaking up the island's natural beauty, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant national park. It’s amazing how much this place has to offer, and I’m excited to share our experiences.

The day started in a way that's becoming a tradition here – with a visit to the local Food Stalls for breakfast. There's something so authentic about grabbing a quick, delicious bite from these vendors, surrounded by the sounds and smells of the island waking up. It’s a far cry from our usual breakfast routine back in Potsdam, but I wouldn't trade it for anything right now. Klara and Mateo especially enjoyed the fresh fruit and local pastries. We made sure to stock up on some snacks for our day of exploring.

Our first stop was Bãi Đầm Trầu, a beach that I'd heard so much about. And wow, it didn't disappoint! Getting there was an adventure in itself, a scenic drive with glimpses of the coastline that had us all reaching for our cameras. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. The sand was soft, and the water was crystal clear. Mateo was thrilled to start building sandcastles, while Klara and I took a leisurely stroll along the shore. It was the kind of place where you could easily spend hours just relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. I even managed to snap some photos that I think might be blog-worthy. The weather in Con Dao this December has been pleasant, with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.


Explore the enchanting Bãi Đầm Trầu, a pristine beach on Con Dao Island, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

What made Bãi Đầm Trầu even more special was its proximity to the airport. Watching the planes glide overhead as they approached Con Son Airport was quite a unique experience. It reminded me of Rockaway Beach in New York, but with a more tranquil, less crowded vibe. Despite the planes, the beach remained peaceful, a perfect spot for some quiet contemplation. According to local legend, the beach is named after a tragic love story, adding a touch of romance to the already stunning scenery. I tried to capture the essence of this story in my photographs, hoping to convey the depth of emotion and beauty that permeates the place. We spent a good part of the morning here, swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying each other's company.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like a day spent exploring a beautiful beach with family.

After our beach excursion, we headed to Côn Đảo National Park Tourist Office. As someone passionate about sustainable living, I was eager to learn more about the park's conservation efforts and the unique ecosystem it protects. The park is known for its diverse environment, including birds, sea turtles, and coral reefs. It was fascinating to discover that the park is not only a natural wonder but also a place of historical significance, with ongoing efforts to preserve its biodiversity. We spoke with some of the park rangers, who were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their work. They provided us with maps and information about the various hiking trails, and we decided to embark on a short trek to get a feel for the park's landscape. I was especially interested in the park's efforts to protect endangered dugongs and sea turtles.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Côn Đảo National Park, Vietnam's hidden paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

The hike was invigorating, taking us through lush rainforests and past stunning coastal viewpoints. Mateo was particularly excited to spot some wild monkeys along the way. Klara, with her background in sustainable architecture, was impressed by the park's commitment to eco-tourism and conservation. We learned about the park's role as the 6th Marine Ramsar site in the world and the first in Vietnam, a testament to its ecological importance. As we walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving such natural treasures for future generations. I made a mental note to explore opportunities for my app development skills to contribute to tourism apps that promote responsible and sustainable travel in areas like this. Perhaps an interactive guide to the park's flora and fauna, or a tool to help visitors track their environmental impact.

After our adventurous morning, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We chose Nhà hàng Thu Ba, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the fresh seafood and traditional dishes. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh spring rolls, grilled fish, and a flavorful seafood noodle soup. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was a great opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture and connect with the community. Klara, ever the foodie, was particularly impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the skillful preparation of the dishes. Mateo, surprisingly, enjoyed the spring rolls, a testament to their universal appeal. I appreciated the chance to try some new flavors and learn more about the culinary traditions of Con Dao. It’s these kinds of experiences that make travel so enriching, offering a glimpse into the everyday lives and customs of the people who call this place home.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood delicacies at Nhà Hàng Thu Ba in Côn Đảo's stunning surroundings.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to do a little shopping before heading back to our guesthouse. Our destination: Takai Mart Côn Đảo. I have to admit, I was curious to see what a supermarket on a remote island would be like. It turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Takai Mart offered a wide range of products, from everyday essentials to local specialties and souvenirs. It was a great place to pick up some snacks for the rest of our trip and browse through the local handicrafts. Mateo was particularly excited by the selection of Vietnamese candies, while Klara was drawn to the eco-friendly toiletries and locally made soaps. I found myself intrigued by the variety of local spices and sauces, thinking about how I could incorporate them into my cooking back in Potsdam. Beyond the shopping, Takai Mart seemed to be a social hub, a place where locals and tourists mingled and exchanged stories. It was a reminder that even in remote corners of the world, the simple act of shopping can be a way to connect with the community and experience the local culture.


Discover the vibrant local culture at Takai Mart Côn Đảo, the essential supermarket for both tourists and locals alike, offering fresh produce and unique local products.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant for dinner. The cafe had a charming retro vibe and elegant decor. The cafe offered a diverse menu, including seafood. As we savored our meals, we reflected on the day's adventures, from the sun-kissed sands of Bãi Đầm Trầu to the lush trails of Côn Đảo National Park. It was a day of contrasts, blending relaxation with exploration, and cultural immersion with natural beauty. We talked about our plans for tomorrow, which include a visit to Con Son Island and exploring Côn Đảo Experience. Mateo was already excited about the prospect of another day of adventure, and Klara and I were looking forward to discovering more of what this island paradise has to offer.


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

Con Dao continues to surprise and enchant us, revealing new layers of its beauty and history with each passing day. It's a place that nourishes the soul and awakens the senses, a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of cherishing our planet. As we head back to our guesthouse, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and to document them for my blog. Until tomorrow, Con Dao, thank you for another unforgettable day. I am looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore Con Son Island and visit the Côn Đảo Experience. We might even check out the Sea sense bar and grill in the evening for a relaxing drink.