Lucia's Solo Escape to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

Island Welcome

The air here is thick with the scent of the sea and something else, something ancient and resilient. My first day in the Con Dao Islands was a sensory awakening, a gentle immersion into a place where history whispers on every breeze and the spirit of the Vietnamese people shines through the simplest of interactions. Leaving behind the familiar buzz of Berlin for this solo adventure, I was eager to peel back the layers of this remote archipelago.

My journey began with a flight from Berlin to Ho Chi Minh City, a transit that felt like teleporting from a wintery landscape to a tropical haven. From Ho Chi Minh City, I hopped on a domestic flight to Con Dao. The weather in Con Dao in December is quite pleasant, with mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. December is considered part of the dry season, so it is an ideal time to visit.

First stop, the Côn Đảo Market. It’s the heart of the island, a place where the day begins before dawn and the freshest seafood is bartered with a smile. I wanted to dive right into the local culture, so this seemed like the perfect place to start. The market was bustling with activity, vendors skillfully arranging their produce, and locals catching up on the day's gossip. The colors were vibrant, the aromas intoxicating – a blend of spices, fresh fish, and tropical fruits I couldn't quite name. I sampled some local delicacies, banh beo, savory steamed rice cakes, and managed to communicate with a friendly vendor using a mix of broken Vietnamese and enthusiastic gestures. It was a far cry from the organic markets back in Neukölln, but the sense of community was universal.


Explore the vibrant Côn Đảo Market, where local culture thrives through fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique handmade crafts.

The soul of a place is often found not in its monuments, but in the everyday lives of its people.

For breakfast, I headed to Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining. It was a bit outside of town, but definitely worth the short scooter ride. The cafe was a hidden gem, a tranquil oasis filled with lush greenery and the gentle sounds of nature. Julia's Garden is known for its charming atmosphere and the owner's hospitality. I enjoyed a hearty breakfast of fresh tropical fruit and strong Vietnamese coffee, soaking in the peaceful ambiance before continuing my exploration. I was able to pick some beans straight from the garden.


Discover culinary delights at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining in Côn Đảo, where every meal is a celebration of Vietnamese flavors amidst stunning scenery.

Next on my list was the Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, the Con Dao Museum. Knowing the islands' history as a prison, I felt it important to pay my respects and try to understand the past. The museum offered a sobering but essential look into the island's dark history, detailing the brutal conditions endured by political prisoners during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War. The exhibits were well-curated, with informative displays in both Vietnamese and English. It was a somber experience, but one that deepened my appreciation for the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people. I was able to learn about the island's biodiversity as well.


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.

Lunch was at Vietnamese By The Market, a restaurant recommended for its authentic local cuisine. The chef, No, uses traditional recipes and locally sourced ingredients. I savored a delicious bowl of Pho Bo, beef noodle soup, and Banh Xeo Tom, a Vietnamese pancake.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Côn Đảo's landscape.

In the afternoon, I decided to do some shopping at Côn Đảo Gift. I wanted to find some unique souvenirs to bring back to Hans and my family in Spain. The shop had a wide selection of local products, from handcrafted textiles to traditional Vietnamese snacks. I picked up a few small trinkets and some dried seafood to share with my loved ones. I also bought some offerings for Co Sau.


Explore Côn Đảo Gift for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

As evening approached, I found myself drawn to Con Son Seafood Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant had a trendy, nostalgic vibe, decorated with old bric-a-brac and antique items. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the portions were generous. I ordered the oyster porridge and shrimp with garlic butter, both of which were delicious. I chatted with some locals who invited me to share a beer with them, which made me love Vietnam and its people even more.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning coastal setting.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a stroll along the beach. The waves crashed gently against the shore, and the stars twinkled above. I thought of Hans back in Berlin, tending to our rooftop beehives. I missed him, but I also felt a sense of contentment and gratitude. This solo journey was exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with myself and discover a new corner of the world.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Dat Tham Beach and Hòn Bảy Cạnh. I'm also looking forward to having breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE, lunch at Nhà hàng Phố Biển, and dinner at ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao. Perhaps I'll check out Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo.

Con Dao has already captured a piece of my heart. It's a place of contrasts – beauty and sorrow, simplicity and depth. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

For those considering a trip to Con Dao, I recommend visiting the market early for the freshest seafood. Also, check airline policies for carrying food if you intend to bring any home. Don't forget to compare prices before buying, especially for dried specialties. Lastly, consider Vietnam Airlines for flexible baggage policies.