Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

Island Vistas and Local Bites

Today was a day of exploration and indulgence here in the Con Dao Islands. I set out to discover some of the island's most scenic spots and treat myself to the local cuisine. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, delicious food, and a touch of retail therapy.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining. It's a charming little spot, tucked away from the main streets, with a garden setting that immediately puts you at ease. The cafe is known for its fresh ingredients, many of which come straight from their own garden. I ordered a traditional Vietnamese coffee and a bowl of pho. Sipping the strong, aromatic coffee while enjoying the flavorful soup was the perfect way to start my day. Julia's Garden is indeed a hidden gem.


Discover culinary delights at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining in Côn Đảo, where every meal is a celebration of Vietnamese flavors amidst stunning scenery.

With a full stomach and a sense of adventure, I hopped on my rented motorbike and headed towards Mũi Cá Mập, also known as Shark Cape. The ride itself was enjoyable, with the coastal road offering stunning views of the turquoise waters and lush greenery. As I approached Mũi Cá Mập, the landscape became more rugged, with dramatic cliffs meeting pristine beaches. I parked my bike and spent some time exploring the area on foot. The views were simply mesmerizing, with the vast expanse of the South China Sea stretching out before me. I could see why this spot is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. The fresh sea breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks created a sense of tranquility that was hard to resist.


Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Mũi Cà Mau, a hidden gem in Vietnam's Ba Ria - Vung Tau region.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that take you off the beaten path, leading you to discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas.

Next on my itinerary was Chim Chim cape. This scenic spot offered equally stunning views of the coastline, with its own unique charm. The landscape here was a bit different from Mũi Cá Mập, with a mix of sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. I spent some time wandering along the shore, taking in the panoramic views and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chim Chim Cape, a scenic spot in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, where tranquility meets stunning coastal views.

By lunchtime, I had worked up quite an appetite, so I made my way to Nhà hàng Nam Dinh for a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. This local eatery is known for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes. I ordered a plate of gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) and a bowl of bún chả (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles). The spring rolls were light and refreshing, while the bún chả was packed with flavor. It was a delicious and satisfying meal that gave me a true taste of Vietnamese culinary traditions. The restaurant was bustling with locals, which is always a good sign, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


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

After lunch, I decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. I stopped by Hin Beautytips - Mỹ Phẩm , Phụ Kiện , Quần Áo , Nước Hoa Côn Đảo - Mi Pham Con Dao - Hin Cosmetic, a local shop that sells a variety of beauty products, accessories, clothing, and perfumes. While I'm not usually one for shopping, I figured it would be a good opportunity to pick up a few souvenirs and support a local business. I ended up buying a small bottle of locally made perfume and a few handmade accessories. It felt good to know that I was contributing to the local economy and bringing home a piece of Con Dao with me.


Discover the essence of beauty and style at Hin Beautytips, your go-to cosmetics and fashion stop in beautiful Côn Đảo.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Con Son Seafood restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is highly praised for its fantastic food, generous portions, and friendly service. I ordered a plate of grilled squid and a bowl of oyster porridge. The squid was incredibly fresh and tender, while the oyster porridge was rich and flavorful. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and indulgence. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, with both locals and tourists enjoying the delicious seafood and the warm hospitality.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning coastal setting.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into the island's history with visits to the Island Chief Palace and Sở Lò Vôi. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo in the evening. It’s hard to believe that my solo escape is nearing its end, but I'm determined to make the most of every moment here. It reminds me a bit of my time exploring street art in Berlin, always finding something new and unexpected around every corner. I also need to remember to buy a portable phone charger, I am constantly running out of battery and don't want to miss any photo opportunities!

It’s funny, I almost forgot my light rain jacket today, but thankfully the weather remained clear and sunny. I’m finding that this solo trip is giving me a lot of time to reflect and appreciate the simple things in life, much like when I first moved to Berlin and had to navigate a new culture and language on my own. This trip to Con Dao is definitely a highlight of 2025, and I’m already looking forward to planning my next adventure!