Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

A Day of Reflection in Con Dao

Today was a day of profound reflection, a journey into the heart of Con Dao's spiritual and historical landscape. It was a day to honor the past and find peace in the present, a blend of cultural immersion and personal contemplation that I'll carry with me long after I leave these islands.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. Fuelled by strong Vietnamese coffee and a delicious bánh mì, I set out to explore the island's cultural gems. The morning air was fresh, carrying the scent of the sea and the promise of a day filled with discovery.

First on my itinerary was the Van Son Pagoda, also known as Nui Mot Pagoda. Perched halfway up Nui Mot Mountain, the pagoda offered not only a spiritual experience but also breathtaking panoramic views of Con Son Bay. As I ascended the steps, I was struck by the pagoda's traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture, with its graceful curved roofs and elaborate carvings. The serene Buddha statues exuded a sense of calm, inviting me to slow down and breathe in the tranquility of the surroundings.


Explore the serene beauty of Van Son Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.
The views from the pagoda were stunning, overlooking An Hai Lotus Lake and Con Son Bay. The clear weather provided a perfect backdrop for capturing some memorable photos. I spent some time meditating in the peaceful setting, reflecting on my journey so far and the beauty of the island. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and connect with something deeper.

Visiting sacred places allows us to connect with something larger than ourselves, offering perspective and peace in our travels.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Van Son Pagoda, I made my way to the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. This cemetery is a significant cultural and historical site, dedicated to Vo Thi Sau, a young female revolutionary hero who played a crucial role in Vietnam's struggle for independence. Learning about her story was incredibly moving; at just 13, she joined the Viet Minh resistance against French colonial rule. She was executed on Con Son Island in 1952 at the age of 19.


Explore Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave in Con Dao, Vietnam—a serene memorial honoring the resilience and sacrifice of a national hero amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
The grave is located in Hang Duong Cemetery, which is open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. As I approached the grave, I noticed the continuous stream of visitors paying their respects. The atmosphere was solemn, filled with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the sacrifices made by Vo Thi Sau and other martyrs. I saw offerings of flowers and fruits, tokens of respect from those who came to honor her memory.

The experience was deeply emotional, a reminder of the human cost of war and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It was a moment to reflect on the values of freedom and independence, and to appreciate the peace that I often take for granted. The cemetery itself is a place of quiet beauty, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought for their country. I found myself profoundly moved by the stories and the palpable sense of history surrounding me. Visiting the grave of Vo Thi Sau was not just a historical stop; it was a deeply personal and moving experience.

For lunch, I decided to try Nhà hàng Thu Ba, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to taste the flavors of Con Dao. I ordered a selection of dishes, including grilled squid, steamed crab, and a refreshing seafood salad. Each dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs. The seafood was incredibly fresh. I savored every bite, enjoying the lively atmosphere and the delicious food.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood delicacies at Nhà Hàng Thu Ba in Côn Đảo's stunning surroundings.
After lunch, I explored the Linh Bùi Store, a charming shop offering traditional Vietnamese costumes and clothing. I browsed through the colorful áo dài and other garments, admiring the intricate designs and quality materials. It was a great opportunity to learn more about Vietnamese culture and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take back home. I didn't end up buying anything, but I enjoyed the experience of immersing myself in the local culture.


Discover the charm of Vietnamese culture at Linh Bùi Store, Côn Đảo's premier destination for unique costumes and clothing.
As the day drew to a close, I made my way to the Sunset Lounge for dinner. Perched atop The Secret hotel, the lounge offered panoramic views of the sea, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. I ordered a cocktail and a selection of tapas, savoring the flavors as I watched the sun dip below the horizon. The sky was ablaze with color, a breathtaking display of nature's beauty. The Sunset Lounge is known for blending a modern ambiance with natural beauty. The combination of high-end dining experiences, vibrant music, and stunning panoramic views made it hard to find anywhere else.


Experience breathtaking sunsets and authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Sunset Lounge in Côn Đảo.
The atmosphere was lively, with music playing and people laughing and chatting. It was the perfect way to end a day of reflection and exploration, a chance to unwind and soak in the beauty of Con Dao. As night fell, the space came alive with brilliant lights, transforming each moment into a memorable experience.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the spiritual and historical richness of Con Dao. From the serene heights of Van Son Pagoda to the solemn grounds of Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave, I was moved by the stories and the spirit of this island. It was a day of connection, a reminder of the importance of honoring the past and finding peace in the present.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore the natural beauty of Hòn Bảy Cạnh and relax on Dat Tham Beach. I might also check out ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao for a drink in the evening. It will be another day of adventure, a chance to discover more of what Con Dao has to offer.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I'm reminded of why I embarked on this solo journey in the first place: to connect with new cultures, challenge myself, and find inspiration in the world around me. Con Dao has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As I walked back to my guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment. Maybe it's the island air, or maybe it's the slower pace of life here, but Con Dao has a way of making you feel grounded and connected to something larger than yourself. And as a freelance content writer and social media manager, it's moments like these that fuel my creativity and inspire me to share my experiences with the world. I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring, but for now, I'm content to simply soak in the magic of Con Dao.

It's funny, I almost forgot to pack a portable phone charger and a light rain jacket, but honestly, the experiences I've had today are more valuable than any material item. I'll make sure to pick those up tomorrow, but for now, I'm just grateful for the memories I've made.

Goodnight from Con Dao! I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all.