Lucia's Solo Escape to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

A Day of Serenity and History in Con Dao

Today was a day of exploring the cultural and historical heart of Con Dao. From the tranquil heights of Van Son Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.


Explore the serene beauty of Van Son Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.
to the stately halls of the Island Chief Palace, a historical gem in Con Dao, Vietnam, showcasing rich culture, stunning architecture, and captivating stories from the past. I immersed myself in the stories and spirit of this island. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel solo – the freedom to wander, reflect, and connect with a place on my own terms.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.
The cafe was charming, decorated with lovely plants and furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere. I enjoyed a flavorful brown noodle dish mixed with grilled vegetables and chicken topped with peanut butter sauce. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

Van Son Pagoda: A Spiritual Ascent

Van Son Pagoda, also known as Nui Mot Pagoda, was my first destination. Situated on the slopes of Nui Mot Mountain, about 1.6 km from Con Son town, the views alone were worth the trip. As the only Buddhist temple on the island, it stands as a serene spiritual landmark. The pagoda has a rich history, believed to have been a retreat for monks for centuries. It was completely restored in December 2011 and now attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.

The architecture of the pagoda was captivating, with its traditional Vietnamese Buddhist design, graceful curved roofs, and elaborate carvings. I took some time to meditate in the peaceful setting, reflecting on the island's history and natural beauty. The panoramic views from the pagoda were simply stunning.

The beauty of a place is not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

The air was fresh and clean, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of incense. I lit a small offering and took a moment to honor those who came before me, the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Vietnam's independence. It was a humbling experience, connecting with the spiritual side of Con Dao.

Island Chief Palace: Echoes of the Past

Next on my itinerary was the Island Chief Palace. Known also as the Grand Palace, it was built between 1862 and 1876 and served as the living and working place for 53 Island Lords over 113 years. The palace is located in the center of Con Dao town. Today, it stands as a special national monument, showcasing artifacts from the Island Lords' time.

Walking through the palace, I was transported back in time. The exhibits told stories of French colonial rule and the island's dark history as a prison. It was a somber experience, but an important one, to understand the full scope of Con Dao's past. The palace served as the central headquarters of the island, gathering administrative, judicial, and military power.

The most chilling aspect was learning about the Island Lords whose cruelty was synonymous with the island's reputation as hell on Earth. Names like Andouard and Nguyen Van Ve echoed through the halls, reminders of the brutal regime that once controlled Con Dao.

Lunch at Kwai's Bistro: A Taste of Con Dao

After a morning of sightseeing, I was ready for lunch. I headed to Kwai's Bistro Con Dao, where every meal is an unforgettable experience in paradise.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Kwai's Bistro Con Dao, where every meal is an unforgettable experience in paradise.
a delightful spot known for its diverse menu and inviting ambiance. The bistro opens from 8 AM to midnight, offering everything from coffee and tea to cocktails and spirits. It's the perfect place for casual chats or enjoying the company of friends.

I opted for a light and refreshing meal, a mix of local flavors and fresh ingredients. The bistro had a cool indoor area and a breezy outdoor space, perfect for watching the world go by.

Shopping for Souvenirs: A Piece of Con Dao to Take Home

In the afternoon, I decided to do some shopping. I visited Siêu thị đặc sản, quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển, a local specialty and souvenir shop.


Explore Hương Biển Specialty Supermarket in Côn Đảo for a unique shopping experience with local delicacies and memorable souvenirs.
Located near the Hang Duong Cemetery and Con Dao Museum, it's a popular spot for tourists. The shop offers a wide variety of products, from seafood to small souvenirs.

I picked up a few gifts for Hans and some friends back in Berlin. I chose some local specialties like mắm nhum (sea urchin sauce) and mứt hạt bàng (terminalia catappa jam). I also found a cute Pulo Bear keychain, a symbol of Con Dao. The shop was well-organized, and the staff was friendly and helpful.

Dinner at Nhà hàng Poulo Condore: A Culinary Delight

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Nhà hàng Poulo Condore, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Poulo Condore in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
This restaurant is known for its diverse menu, combining international dishes with distinctive Vietnamese flavors. The setting was elegant and relaxing, the perfect way to end a day of exploring.

I savored a delicious meal, enjoying the fresh seafood and local spices. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was serene. It was a culinary highlight of my trip so far.

Reflections on the Day

Today was a reminder of the many layers that make up Con Dao. The island's spiritual side, its historical depth, and its culinary delights all came together to create a rich and meaningful experience. As I walked back to my guesthouse, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this unique destination.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve even deeper into the island's history with a visit to Côn Đảo Prison and the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. I also look forward to trying some new restaurants, like The Secret Restaurant for breakfast and Madame Hà - Vegetarian Cuisine for dinner. And perhaps, I'll end the day with a cocktail at On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy insect repellent tomorrow; those little critters are relentless! And I'm so glad I remembered my camera; I've been capturing so many incredible moments.

Con Dao continues to surprise and inspire me. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The weather in Con Dao in December is pleasant, with mild temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°C. The humidity is relatively low, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. December is also one of the driest months in Con Dao, with occasional short rain showers.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

Goodnight from Con Dao!