Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

A Day of Remembrance and Coastal Beauty

Today was a day of contrasts, a poignant blend of historical reflection and the serene beauty of Con Dao's coastline. It’s amazing how one place can hold so much history, both tragic and inspiring, while also offering such breathtaking natural landscapes. I was eager to explore more of what this island has to offer, and today did not disappoint.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Bar 200 - By The Beach. The beachfront setting was perfect. Sipping on Vietnamese coffee while listening to the waves crash was a wonderful way to start the day. Elena was particularly excited, building sandcastles right next to our table while Maximilian and I enjoyed the peaceful morning. The menu offered a mix of local and international options, and we all found something to enjoy. I opted for a traditional Banh Mi, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty omelette. Elena, of course, went for pancakes with fresh fruit. It's these simple family moments that I cherish the most, especially when surrounded by such beauty.


Experience coastal bliss at Bar 200 - By The Beach, where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views in Côn Đảo.

After breakfast, we set out to visit Sở Lò Vôi, a historical site that served as a lime kiln during the French colonial period. This place is a stark reminder of the harsh conditions and forced labor endured by prisoners. As we walked through the grounds, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sadness and respect for those who suffered here. The site itself is simple, with the remnants of the kilns still visible, but the atmosphere is heavy with history. It was a sobering experience, and I tried my best to explain to Elena, in a way she could understand, the importance of remembering the past. Maximilian and I held hands, a silent acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by so many. The weather was warm, typical for November, with a mix of sunshine and scattered clouds.


Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Sở Lò Vôi, a hidden coastal gem in Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Visiting historical sites like Sở Lò Vôi serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Next on our itinerary was Chim Chim Cape, a scenic spot known for its stunning coastal views. The drive there was beautiful, with winding roads offering glimpses of the turquoise sea. When we arrived, the view was simply breathtaking. The cape offers panoramic vistas of the South China Sea, with golden sands meeting lush green landscapes. Elena loved exploring the rocky shoreline, collecting seashells and marveling at the crashing waves. Maximilian, ever the photographer, captured some amazing shots of the scenery. I took a moment to simply breathe in the fresh sea air and appreciate the natural beauty around me. It was a perfect contrast to the somber atmosphere of Sở Lò Vôi, a reminder that even in places with a dark history, beauty and life persist.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chim Chim Cape, a scenic spot in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, where tranquility meets stunning coastal views.

For lunch, we stopped at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm, a restaurant recommended for its local cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and the food was delicious. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese fare. Elena particularly enjoyed the spring rolls, while Maximilian and I savored the grilled fish. It was a satisfying meal, and the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.


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

In the late afternoon, while Elena took a nap, Maximilian and I ventured out to Bar200 - The Bar for a quick drink. This cozy spot is known for its relaxed atmosphere and western-style food. Maximilian enjoyed a cold beer, while I opted for a refreshing smoothie. It was a nice way to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. The bar had a friendly vibe, and we chatted with some of the other patrons, exchanging travel stories and recommendations.


Experience vibrant nightlife at Bar200, Côn Đảo's premier bar offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

For dinner, we decided to try ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao, known for its delicious Vietnamese food. The restaurant had a lovely open-air setting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled shrimp, fried tofu, and beef satay skewers. Each dish was beautifully presented and tasted amazing. Elena, surprisingly, loved the tofu, while Maximilian raved about the shrimp. It was a wonderful way to end our day, savoring delicious food and enjoying each other's company. The weather remained pleasant, with a gentle breeze adding to the ambiance.


Discover the flavors of Vietnam at ULA Restaurant & Bar in Con Dao – where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. Con Dao is a place that touches your heart and soul, a place where history and beauty intertwine. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Di tích Bãi Sọ Người and the Island Chief Palace, continuing our exploration of this fascinating island. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant, lunch at Nhà hàng Phố Biển, and dinner at Nhà hàng Poulo Condore. We might also do some souvenir shopping at Siêu thị đặc sản, quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển.

“Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” I feel that quote encapsulates my feelings about travel perfectly. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures! This trip has been so enriching, and I can't wait to see what else Con Dao has in store for us. Good night from Con Dao!