Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of Today

Today was a day of diving deep into Con Dao's history and savoring its local flavors. It’s amazing how much history can be packed into one small island, and how the echoes of the past resonate even in the most mundane moments. I set out to explore some of the island’s key landmarks, and treat myself to the local cuisine that everyone keeps raving about.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at MAY BISTRO. It's a cozy little spot that seemed popular with both locals and tourists. I ordered a traditional Vietnamese coffee and a banh mi. The coffee was strong and rich, just the way I like it, and the banh mi was filled with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Fuelled for the day, I decided to head towards the Vietnam Heritage Tree.


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

The weather in Con Dao today was warm and humid, with daytime temperatures reaching about 30°C. The sky was overcast, and there was a slight breeze, which made the humidity bearable. October is supposed to be rainy season, but so far, I’ve been lucky with the weather.

The Vietnam Heritage Tree is a short hike north of the main national park ticket office. The winding path offered a perfect introduction to the island's lush interior. As I ascended, the trail transitioned to a series of stone steps. The air was thick with the scent of tropical foliage, and the sounds of the forest filled my ears. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. After a short while, I arrived at the Heritage Tree.

It was a truly magnificent sight. The tree, a colossal species of tropical hardwood, has stood guard over the island for centuries. Its massive trunk and gnarled branches are a testament to Con Dao's enduring spirit. I spent some time simply standing in its presence, reflecting on the history it had witnessed. The tree is one of many ancient trees on the island recognized as Vietnamese heritage trees, some dating back to when the French colonial government began constructing the Con Dao prison system in 1862. These trees have become living symbols of Con Dao's spiritual and cultural identity.

Each time I visit Con Dao, I always stop beneath these almond trees, just to reflect on the island's deep and painful history.

After the Heritage Tree, I decided to visit Sở Rẫy, a former plantation. I wanted to see firsthand the place where prisoners were forced to work. It was a sobering experience to walk through the fields where so much suffering had taken place. It's hard to imagine the conditions they endured, but being there gave me a sense of connection to their struggle. Today, Con Dao is not only a place for remembrance and reflection but also a well-known destination for spiritual tourism, nature conservation, and tranquil retreats.


Explore the captivating historical site of Sở Rẫy in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where rich culture meets stunning natural beauty.

By then, I was more than ready for lunch. I headed to Quán Cơm Su Su, a local eatery known for its affordable and delicious cơm tấm. I ordered a plate of broken rice with BBQ pork and a fried egg. It was simple, but incredibly satisfying. The flavors were bold and savory, and the portion size was generous. It was exactly what I needed after a morning of exploring. As I ate, I watched the locals go about their day, and I felt a sense of connection to the community.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Quán Cơm Su Su in beautiful Côn Đảo, where flavor meets affordability.

In the afternoon, I decided to do a bit of shopping. I stopped by Shop Thắng Hướng, a local store that sells a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts. I picked up a few small items to bring back to Berlin as gifts for my friends and family. I always try to support local businesses when I travel, and it felt good to know that my money was going directly to the community.


Explore Shop Thắng Hướng in Côn Đảo for unique souvenirs and a taste of local culture, perfect for tourists seeking authentic Vietnamese treasures.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views. I ordered a grilled fish with a side of steamed vegetables. The fish was cooked to perfection, and the vegetables were crisp and flavorful. The view of the ocean was breathtaking, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility as I watched the waves crash against the shore.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

The restaurant is one of the places that specializes in serving đoàn khách, or large groups. The design is modern, with an emphasis on the character of the sea. I learned that the restaurant’s mission is to present delicious food that reflects the unique characteristics of the local sea.

After dinner, I took a leisurely stroll along the beach. The sky was clear, and the stars were shining brightly. The air was cool and refreshing, and the sounds of the ocean were soothing. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful island and its rich history. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. I thought about my life back in Berlin, and how different it was from the simple, peaceful life on Con Dao. I wondered if I could ever truly be content living in a big city again.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Holy Cave and Hòn Tre Lớn. I’ve heard that the Holy Cave is a sacred place with a fascinating history, and I’m eager to learn more about it. I’m also looking forward to exploring Hòn Tre Lớn, a nearby island that is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. I’m planning to have breakfast at The Secret Restaurant, lunch at Nhà hàng Phố Biển, and dinner at Quán Tri Kỷ. I might even check out Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House.

As I walked back to my guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow would bring. Con Dao had already captured my heart, and I knew that there were still so many more adventures to be had. I'm so glad I decided to come here on this solo trip. It's exactly the kind of escape I needed.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to charge my camera and jot down some notes in my travel journal. I don’t want to forget a single detail of this incredible journey.

Goodnight from Con Dao!