Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

A Day of Reflection

Today, on the eighth day of my solo journey through the Con Dao Islands, I sought to deepen my understanding of this place, intertwining its poignant history with the serene beauty of its natural landscapes. It was a day marked by exploration, contemplation, and a profound connection to the island's spirit. From the solemn echoes within the Holy Cave to the tranquil embrace of Hòn Tre Lớn, Con Dao revealed more of its soul, leaving me humbled and inspired.


Discover the spiritual sanctuary of Holy Cave in Côn Đảo, Vietnam, where nature's beauty meets profound tranquility in a unique pilgrimage experience.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. The villa that houses the restaurant is over a century old, filled with a French Indochinese architectural style. I savored a traditional Vietnamese coffee, its rich aroma filling the air as I planned my itinerary. It's fascinating how a simple cup of coffee can become a ritual, a moment of quiet anticipation before a day of adventure. I made sure to thank the staff, and headed out for the day.

First on the agenda was the Holy Cave, a site shrouded in both natural beauty and spiritual significance. The drive there was an experience in itself, the island's roads winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the turquoise sea. As I approached the cave, a sense of tranquility washed over me. The entrance, framed by ancient trees and rocky formations, beckoned me into a world apart.

Inside, the cave was cool and dim, the air thick with the scent of incense. A statue of the Virgin Mary stood serenely in a small alcove, a testament to the island's diverse spiritual heritage. The cave's natural architecture, shaped by centuries of wind and water, created an atmosphere of reverence. I spent some time in quiet contemplation, reflecting on the stories this cave could tell, the prayers it had absorbed, the hopes it had sheltered. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the beauty of nature's artistry.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest of places.

Leaving the Holy Cave, I felt a sense of peace and renewed energy. My next destination was Hòn Tre Lớn, an island known for its pristine beaches and diverse ecosystem. To get there, I hopped on a boat from Ben Dam Port, the gentle rocking of the waves a soothing rhythm as we cruised towards the island. The sea was a shimmering expanse of blue, the sky a canvas of endless possibilities.


Experience the untouched beauty of Hòn Tre Lớn, a tranquil island retreat in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, offering stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

As we approached Hòn Tre Lớn, I was struck by its untouched beauty. The island is home to unique flora and fauna, including the Nicoba pigeon, a species listed in the Red Book of Vietnam and the world. It’s also a sanctuary for green turtles, making it a haven for wildlife. The beaches were pristine, the sand soft and white, the water crystal clear. I spent the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and simply basking in the sun, feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin.

Lunch was at Nhà hàng Phố Biển, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes. I savored a plate of grilled prawns, their smoky flavor a perfect complement to the sea breeze. The restaurant's open-air design allowed for stunning views of the ocean, making it a truly memorable dining experience.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, I found myself reflecting on the day's adventures. The contrast between the solemnity of the Holy Cave and the exuberance of Hòn Tre Lớn was striking, yet both experiences were deeply enriching. Con Dao has a way of touching your soul, of reminding you of the importance of history, nature, and human connection. As someone who grew up in Puerto Rico, I've always felt drawn to islands, to their unique blend of isolation and community. Con Dao is no exception; it's a place that feels both remote and welcoming, a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the natural world and find yourself in the stories of its people.

For dinner, I decided to try Quán Tri Kỷ, a local eatery known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and fresh seafood. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. I ordered a plate of their signature spring rolls, followed by a steaming bowl of pho. The flavors were vibrant and complex, a testament to the chef's culinary artistry. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic Vietnamese hospitality.

To cap off the evening, I ventured to the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House, a trendy spot known for its delicious wines and cocktails. I opted for a glass of local white wine, its crisp, refreshing taste a perfect complement to the balmy evening air. The bar had a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, and I struck up a conversation with a couple of fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter. It was a reminder that even when traveling solo, you're never truly alone; there's always someone to connect with, someone to share the journey.

As I walked back to my guesthouse under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a tapestry of experiences, woven together by the threads of history, nature, and human connection. Con Dao had once again revealed its magic, leaving me eager to see what tomorrow would bring. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Bãi Suối Nóng and Bãi Đầm Trầu, two beaches renowned for their natural beauty. I've heard whispers of hidden waterfalls and secluded coves, and I can't wait to explore them firsthand. I'll also be sure to sample the local cuisine at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant for breakfast and the Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng - Seafood Restaurant for dinner. And of course, no trip to Con Dao would be complete without a visit to Siêu thị đặc sản, quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển, where I hope to find some unique souvenirs to bring back to Berlin.

Before drifting off to sleep, I journaled about my day, committing its memories to paper. As a freelance content writer, I find that these personal reflections often spark new ideas and perspectives, enriching my work and deepening my understanding of the world around me. And as someone who moved from Salinas, Puerto Rico to Berlin, Germany, I've learned to embrace the transformative power of travel, to see each journey as an opportunity for growth, connection, and self-discovery. Con Dao, with its poignant history and breathtaking beauty, is proving to be a particularly profound chapter in my ongoing travel narrative.