Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of deep reflection and sensory exploration here in Con Dao. I traded the tranquility of the beaches for a journey into the island's poignant history, followed by a delightful dive into its culinary scene. It's amazing how a place can hold so much beauty and sorrow, and how the present can offer both solace and celebration.

The weather in Con Dao this October is proving to be quite pleasant. The forecast predicted temperatures between 24°C and 30°C (75°F and 86°F) with occasional breezes, making it ideal for exploring the island's outdoor attractions.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. This place is a gem! I opted for the avocado toast with eggs, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for the day. The atmosphere was so cozy and welcoming; I could have easily spent hours there just soaking it all in. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. It was a great start to the day.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from confronting the past, and the deepest joys from savoring the present.

After breakfast, I headed to the Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, the Con Dao Museum. The museum does an incredible job of capturing Con Dao’s history. The building’s architecture blends modern and classic styles, creating a solemn space that reflects the history it preserves. Inside, the exhibits are organized into four main themes: Con Dao – Land and People, Con Dao – Hell on Earth, Con Dao – Battlefront and School, and Con Dao Today.


Explore the profound history and stunning beauty of Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, a must-visit museum on Côn Đảo Island, Vietnam, for an enriching cultural experience.

Walking through the exhibits, I was struck by the stories of resilience and resistance. The displays of artifacts, documents, and photographs painted a vivid picture of life on the island through different periods. I learned about the island's unique ecosystem and the cultural traditions of its people. But it was the Hell on Earth section that truly left a mark, detailing the grim realities faced by prisoners under French colonial rule and later, during the American war.

From the museum, I walked to the Côn Đảo Prison, a place synonymous with suffering and resilience. The prison, established by the French colonialists, was used to incarcerate Vietnamese political prisoners. It later became known as hell on earth due to the inhumane conditions and brutal treatment endured by the inmates.


Explore Côn Đảo Prison: A profound war museum reflecting Vietnam's history of resilience and courage amidst its serene natural beauty.

Walking through the prison, I saw the cramped cells and solitary confinement areas. It was chilling to imagine the hardship and torture these prisoners faced. The tiger cages were particularly disturbing, a stark reminder of the barbarity inflicted on those who dared to stand up for their beliefs. The prison stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

After such an intense morning, I needed something to lift my spirits. I found just the thing at Madame Hà - Vegetarian Cuisine. Being a vegetarian-friendly place, I decided to try it out. I enjoyed a flavorful vegan banh mi, packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant spices. The restaurant itself had a cozy and sustainable vibe, decorated with recycled fishing nets. It was a refreshing experience that nourished both body and soul.


Discover exquisite vegetarian cuisine at Madame Hà in Côn Đảo – where fresh flavors meet traditional Vietnamese cooking.

As evening approached, I decided to try Kwai's Bistro Con Dao for dinner. I had heard good things about their drinks and snacks, and I was in the mood for something light and refreshing. The bistro had a cozy ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Although some reviews mentioned that food service might be limited, I was happy to find a selection of tasty snacks to accompany my drink. It was the ideal spot to relax and reflect on the day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Kwai's Bistro Con Dao, where every meal is an unforgettable experience in paradise.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with a great selection of cocktails and music. It was a fun way to end a day filled with heavy history and poignant memories.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at On Cloud Nine Cocktail Bar, a tropical paradise on Vietnam's stunning Côn Đảo Islands.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Van Son Pagoda and the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. It seems fitting to continue honoring the island's history and finding moments of peace and reflection.

Con Dao continues to surprise me with its layers of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place that challenges you to confront the past while embracing the present. And as I settle in for the night, I'm grateful for the experiences and insights this island has offered me. Now, off to dream of pagodas and peaceful shores!

I'm also mindful of the environment and the importance of sustainable living, so I'm making sure to dispose of trash properly and respect the island's natural beauty. I even remembered to bring my reusable water bottle, though I did forget my portable phone charger back in Berlin! Time to be more mindful tomorrow.

Until then, xin chào from Con Dao!