Family Adventure in the Pristine Con Dao Islands

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of the Future

Today was a day of profound reflection here in the Con Dao Islands. It's amazing how a place so beautiful can hold such a deep, and at times, dark history. We set out to explore some of the island's most significant landmarks, places where the past feels incredibly present. It was a day of remembrance, respect, and a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo. It wasn't actually on the beach, which I found slightly amusing, but the homemade pasta and strong cappuccinos set us up perfectly for the day ahead. Klara was particularly happy with their vegan options, and Mateo enjoyed his simple but satisfying toast. Fuelled up, we were ready to delve into the history of Con Dao.

First on our itinerary was the Vietnam Heritage Tree. The drive there was beautiful, the island showing off its lush greenery. When we arrived, the sheer size and age of the tree were awe-inspiring. It stood as a silent witness to centuries of history, its gnarled branches reaching towards the sky like ancient arms. Mateo was fascinated, asking endless questions about how old it was and what it had seen. It's moments like these, connecting with nature and history, that make travelling as a family so rewarding. I tried to explain to Mateo the significance of the tree, how it has stood as a symbol of resilience and endurance for generations. I even told him how, according to former political prisoners, people would eat the leaves of the almond trees to stave off hunger. It's hard to imagine such hardship in such a beautiful place.


Explore the Vietnam Heritage Tree, a stunning natural landmark in Côn Đảo, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and beauty of Vietnam.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places carry the heaviest stories.

After spending some time in quiet contemplation beneath the Heritage Tree, we headed to Hang Duong Cemetery. This memorial cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of Vietnamese independence fighters and prisoners who died at the Con Dao Prison. As we walked through the rows of graves, many unmarked, a sense of solemnity washed over us. It was a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and independence. Klara held my hand tightly, and even Mateo seemed to grasp the gravity of the place. We found the grave of Võ Thị Sáu, a national heroine, and paid our respects. The air was thick with emotion, a palpable sense of history and loss. It was a humbling experience, one that I think will stay with us for a long time.


Explore Hang Duong Cemetery in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, a serene memorial honoring Vietnam's brave heroes and rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we chose Nhà hàng Nam Dinh, enticed by its promise of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant had an open and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed family meal. We ordered a variety of dishes, from fresh spring rolls to flavorful pho, and everything was delicious. Mateo, surprisingly, was adventurous and tried a bit of everything. It's wonderful to see him embracing new flavors and cultures.


Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh in beautiful Côn Đảo - where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, seeking a bit of respite and relaxation, I ventured out solo to LoCo Lodge & Pub. It was a bit out of the way, but I was intrigued by its unique vibe. The place had a quirky, laid-back atmosphere, with a mix of hostel-style dorms and safari-style tents nestled in a lush garden. I enjoyed a local beer, chatting with some fellow travellers and soaking in the tranquil surroundings. It was a nice way to unwind after a day of heavy reflection. I made a mental note that it could be an interesting and budget friendly accommodation option if I was ever travelling solo.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of LoCo Lodge & Pub, a perfect blend of delicious food, craft drinks, and cozy island charm on Côn Đảo.

Dinner was at Nhà hàng Phố Biển, recommended for its seafood. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of the ocean. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and we feasted on grilled prawns, steamed fish, and stir-fried squid. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring and remembering.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I'm struck by the duality of Con Dao. It's a place of incredible beauty, with stunning beaches and lush landscapes. But it's also a place of deep sorrow, a reminder of the human capacity for cruelty and the price of freedom. It's a place that challenges you to confront the past while appreciating the present.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the island's natural beauty, heading to Chim Chim cape and visiting the Phú Tường prison. I'm looking forward to discovering more of what Con Dao has to offer, both the beautiful and the challenging. And perhaps doing some shopping at Linh Bùi Store.

Before heading to bed, I checked the weather forecast for tomorrow and it looks like we are still in for pleasant weather with mild temperatures, which is great for outdoor activities.

Good night from Con Dao.