Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

A Day of Remembrance

Today was a day of deep reflection here in Con Dao. It’s impossible to ignore the weight of history on these islands, and I decided to dedicate the day to understanding more about the somber past that has shaped this place. It was a day of visiting historical sites, paying respects, and trying to grasp the immense suffering and resilience that defines Con Dao's story.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at The Den. I needed the fuel for what I knew would be an emotionally taxing day. The Den is a charming spot, serving up a mix of Italian and Mexican alongside traditional Vietnamese coffee. It’s a great place to start the day, with its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. I opted for a strong Vietnamese coffee and a pastry, a little taste of local flavor to prepare me for the day ahead.


Discover exceptional coffee and diverse cuisine at The Den in Côn Đảo - where every bite tells a story.

From there, I headed to Trại Phú Tường (Chuồng Cọp Pháp), also known as the French Tiger Cages. This prison, built by the French colonial administration in 1940, is a stark reminder of the brutal conditions endured by Vietnamese revolutionaries and political prisoners. The tiger cages themselves are small, windowless cells with iron bars above, allowing guards to watch and inflict punishment on the prisoners below.


Discover the historical charm of Trại Phú Tường, a captivating landmark in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, blending rich history with breathtaking landscapes.

Walking through the compound, I tried to imagine what it must have been like to be confined in such a place, subjected to constant surveillance and inhumane treatment. The cells were cramped and airless, and the sense of isolation was palpable. It was a truly disturbing experience, and one that left me with a profound sense of sorrow and respect for those who suffered here.

Visiting the French Tiger Cages was a stark reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

After spending a couple of hours at Trại Phú Tường, I needed a break to process what I had seen. I decided to grab lunch at Quán Ăn Tô, a local spot known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. It was exactly what I needed – a simple, delicious meal in a relaxed setting. Surrounded by locals, I felt a sense of connection to the community and a renewed appreciation for the simple things in life. I enjoyed a plate of cơm tấm, broken rice with grilled pork, a classic Vietnamese dish that always hits the spot.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Quán Ăn Tô, where every dish tells a story in the heart of Côn Đảo.

In the afternoon, I visited Hàng Dương Cemetery, the final resting place for thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries and patriots who died in Con Dao Prison. The cemetery is vast and well-maintained, with rows upon rows of graves, many of them unmarked. It’s a place of pilgrimage for Vietnamese people, who come to pay their respects to those who sacrificed their lives for their country’s independence.


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

As I walked through the cemetery, I noticed many people lighting incense and leaving offerings at the graves. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the sound of quiet prayers. It was a moving experience to witness the deep reverence and respect that the Vietnamese people have for their fallen heroes.

Among the many graves, there are several notable ones, including those of Lê Hồng Phong, Nguyễn An Ninh, and Võ Thị Sáu. Võ Thị Sáu, in particular, is a national heroine, a young woman who was executed by the French at the age of 19 for her revolutionary activities. Her grave is one of the most visited in the cemetery, and it’s always covered in flowers and offerings.

I spent a long time at Hàng Dương Cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made by so many people for the cause of freedom and independence. It was a humbling experience, and one that reinforced my appreciation for the freedoms that I enjoy today. The sheer scale of the cemetery, with an estimated 20,000 prisoners resting there, is a testament to the suffering and loss that occurred on Con Dao. The cemetery is divided into four zones, each holding a piece of the island's tragic history.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I stopped by Hin Beautytips - Mỹ Phẩm , Phụ Kiện , Quần Áo , Nước Hoa Côn Đảo - Mi Pham Con Dao - Hin Cosmetic [I am unable to find sufficient information about this location to relay an accurate description]. It was a welcome distraction after a heavy day, a chance to browse some local products and maybe pick up a souvenir [I am unable to find sufficient information about this location to relay an accurate description].


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

For dinner, I chose Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views. It was the perfect way to end the day, enjoying a delicious meal while watching the sunset over the water. I ordered grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and reflect on the day's experiences.


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

As I sat there, watching the sky turn from blue to orange to purple, I thought about all the people who had lived and died on these islands. I thought about their struggles, their sacrifices, and their resilience. And I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to learn about their stories and to pay my respects to their memory.

Con Dao is more than just a beautiful island; it’s a place of profound historical significance. It’s a place that reminds us of the importance of freedom, justice, and human dignity. And it’s a place that I will never forget.

Tomorrow, I plan to continue my exploration of Con Dao with a visit to Di tích Bãi Sọ Người and Con Dao Experience. I’m looking forward to learning more about the island’s history and culture, and to experiencing more of its natural beauty. I might even check out LoCo Lodge & Pub in the evening for a bit of local nightlife. Until then, goodnight from Con Dao!

I am finding this solo trip incredibly rewarding. Being alone allows for deeper introspection and connection with the places I visit. It pushes me out of my comfort zone and encourages me to engage more with the local culture. As someone who grew up in the close-knit community of Salinas, Puerto Rico, I find that solo travel offers a different kind of community – a temporary one, built on shared experiences and mutual respect with fellow travelers and locals alike. And as a content writer, these experiences provide endless inspiration for my work. It's a privilege to share these stories and insights with you all.

As I reflect on the day, I'm reminded of a quote I once read:

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience.”

This quote encapsulates the essence of travel for me – a journey not just through places, but through the depths of human experience and the heights of spiritual understanding. And as I continue my adventure in Con Dao, I embrace the lessons of the past and the possibilities of the future, always with a sense of gratitude and wonder.

Before I turn in for the night, I'm making a mental note to pick up a portable phone charger; my phone battery barely made it through the day with all the photos and note-taking [TripDetails]. Definitely don't want to forget that again!