Lucia's Solo Escape to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

Whispers of the Island

Today, Con Dao continued to unveil its secrets, each location whispering tales of resilience, beauty, and a rich, complex history. From rugged coastlines to serene forests, the island offered a tapestry of experiences that resonated deeply with my soul. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comforts of Berlin for the open road and the thrill of the unknown.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at The Den. I savored a traditional Vietnamese coffee, strong and sweet, alongside a bowl of *pho*. The coffee's rich aroma and the *pho*'s savory broth provided the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. Refueled, I set off to explore the legendary Mũi Cá Mập, or Shark Cape.


Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Mũi Cà Mau, a hidden gem in Vietnam's Ba Ria - Vung Tau region.
The ride there was an adventure in itself. The winding roads hugged the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise waters crashing against the rocky shores. As I rounded each bend, the anticipation grew, and I could feel the island's energy pulling me closer. When I finally arrived at Mũi Cá Mập, I was immediately struck by its raw, untamed beauty. The dramatic cliffs jutted out into the sea, resembling a shark's snout, hence the name. The waves crashed against the rocks with a thunderous roar, creating a symphony of nature's power. I spent a good hour simply sitting there, mesmerized by the view and the sheer force of the ocean. The air was salty and fresh, and the sun warmed my skin as I breathed deeply, feeling a sense of connection to this wild and beautiful place. The cape is located near Bai Nhat Beach, and on the way to Ben Dam.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After soaking in the majestic views of Mũi Cá Mập, I decided to embark on a short trek to find the famed Vietnam Heritage Tree.


Explore the Vietnam Heritage Tree, a stunning natural landmark in Côn Đảo, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and beauty of Vietnam.
The trail wound through a lush forest, the air thick with humidity and the scent of damp earth and tropical foliage. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns on the path ahead. As I walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the history of this island. The Heritage Trees have stood for hundreds of years, and some served as refuge for political prisoners.

The hike itself was relatively easy, but the heat and humidity made it a bit challenging. I was grateful for my hiking boots and the reusable water bottle I had remembered to pack [cite: TripDetails]. Along the way, I encountered a few other travelers, but for the most part, I had the trail to myself. This solitude allowed me to fully immerse myself in the natural surroundings, listening to the sounds of the forest and observing the diverse flora and fauna. I even spotted a few colorful birds flitting through the trees, their calls adding to the symphony of the jungle.

Finally, after about an hour of hiking, I reached the Vietnam Heritage Tree. It was truly a sight to behold. This colossal tree, a species of tropical hardwood, has stood guard over the island for centuries. Its massive trunk and gnarled branches are a testament to Con Dao's enduring wild spirit. I stood in awe, marveling at its size and the sense of history it exuded. It was humbling to think about all the events this tree had witnessed over the centuries – the rise and fall of empires, the struggles for independence, and the transformation of Con Dao from a prison island to a tourist destination. The tropical almond trees are the most significant heritage trees on Con Dao, with 45 trees in total.

After my hike, I was ready for a satisfying lunch. I ventured to Nhà hàng Thu Tâm, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm in Côn Đảo – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.
I decided on the grilled squid with chili and lemongrass, a Con Dao specialty. The squid was incredibly tender and flavorful, the chili adding a pleasant kick. As I savored each bite, I watched the locals going about their daily lives, and I felt a sense of belonging, as if I was becoming a part of the island's story. I learned that the restaurant is the biggest on the island, but the service can be slow.

In the late afternoon, with the sun beginning its descent, I sought refuge at the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House.


Discover the tranquil charm of Côn Đảo House, where exquisite wines and aromatic coffee meet the beauty of Vietnam's serene landscapes.
This charming spot offered the perfect respite after a day of exploration. I ordered a glass of local Vietnamese wine and settled into a comfortable chair, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with a mix of locals and tourists chatting and laughing. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. Other bars in Con Dao include Sunset Lounge, Sea Sense Bar and Grill, and Karaoke 4You. There are cocktails, coffee, and Vietnamese scenery.

As evening approached, I made my way to Yin Yang restaurant for dinner.


Experience the best of Asian cuisine with a vibrant bar atmosphere at Yin Yang in beautiful Con Dao.
This restaurant came highly recommended, and I was eager to try their Asian cuisine. I ordered the seafood hotpot, a flavorful and aromatic dish brimming with fresh prawns, squid, and vegetables. The broth was rich and complex, and the seafood was cooked to perfection. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Con Dao's culinary delights. The restaurant is run by a German-Vietnamese couple.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the waves and feeling the sand between my toes. The stars were beginning to emerge, twinkling like diamonds in the dark sky. I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me, grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Con Dao.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Holy Cave and Chim Chim cape [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow]. Each day here brings new adventures, new discoveries, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and resilience of this incredible island. It is nice to support local businesses, and I plan to try MAY BISTRO for breakfast [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I will also try Nha Hang Ben Cang for lunch, and Nha hang Poulo Condore for dinner [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I might even stop by Shop Thắng Hường to do some shopping [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I am sad that this trip is almost over, but I am already planning my next adventure!

And as the waves gently crash against the shore, I am reminded of the simple truth that life is not about the destination, but about the journey itself. Each day is a new opportunity to explore, to discover, and to connect with the world around us. And in the end, it is these experiences that truly define us, shaping us into the people we are meant to be.

Until tomorrow, Con Dao. I am looking forward to seeing what you have in store for me.