Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Island Reflections: A Farewell to Con Dao

As our family adventure in the Con Dao Islands draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. This trip has been an extraordinary blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion, creating memories that Maximilian, Elena, and I will treasure for years to come. Today, our final day, was all about soaking in the last moments of this island paradise and ensuring we leave with a piece of it in our hearts.

Our day began, as many others have, with the exquisite breakfast at the Sunset Lounge within the Six Senses Con Dao resort. The view was, as always, breathtaking. Sipping my coffee while overlooking the serene bay, I felt a pang of sadness knowing it was our last morning here. Elena, ever the early riser, was already enjoying her pancakes, and Maximilian was engrossed in a conversation with one of the staff members about the local marine life. The service here has been exceptional.


Experience breathtaking sunsets and authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Sunset Lounge in Côn Đảo.

After breakfast, we decided to explore more of the Six Senses Con Dao. This resort really reflects the essence of a traditional fishing village. We strolled through the grounds, admiring the architecture and the way it blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. It's clear that Six Senses is committed to sustainability, which aligns perfectly with our values as travelers. I even learned that they use golf balls that biodegrade in the water to reveal fish food ! We spent some time by the peaceful curved pool, enjoying the shade of the palm trees. The resort has more than 50 pools, and each villa has its own pool.


Discover the tranquility and luxury of Six Senses Con Dao, a premier resort hotel nestled in Vietnam's breathtaking Con Dao archipelago.

The end of a journey is just the beginning of a memory.

For lunch, we ventured out to Quán Ăn Tô, a local eatery recommended by several people we met during our stay. It was a delightful experience! The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese hot pot. Elena, surprisingly, loved the *Gỏi cuốn*, fresh spring rolls, and even tried a bit of the hot pot. Maximilian and I savored every bite, knowing we would soon miss the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The staff was incredibly friendly, even teaching us a bit about how to properly prepare the hot pot. I felt like I was bringing a little piece of Côn Đảo back with me.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Quán Ăn Tô, where every dish tells a story in the heart of Côn Đảo.

In the afternoon, with thoughts of gifts for friends and family back in Germany, we dedicated some time to shopping. Our first stop was Côn Đảo Gift, a charming store known for its locally crafted products. I was immediately drawn to the handmade textiles and unique trinkets that reflected the island's heritage. Elena, of course, was captivated by the Pulo Bear souvenirs, adorable chibi-style characters that represent the Con Dao Islands. We picked up several keychains and small gifts, knowing they would be cherished reminders of our trip. The staff was incredibly helpful, sharing stories about the artisans and the meaning behind the crafts.


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

We then headed to another shop, Côn Đảo Gift, where I found some beautiful jewelry made from seashells. I chose a delicate necklace for my sister, knowing she would appreciate the unique and natural design. It's amazing how the artisans transform simple seashells into works of art. We also visited Shop Thắng Hường, known for its local artistry and traditional Vietnamese products. I found some lovely handcrafted souvenirs and traditional snacks, perfect for bringing a taste of Vietnam back home.

As the day wound down, we decided to have our farewell dinner at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo. Although it's not directly on the beach, the cozy atmosphere and the promise of delicious food drew us in. We were not disappointed! The menu offered a variety of international dishes, including homemade pasta and healthy vegan options. I opted for the squid tagliatelle, while Maximilian enjoyed a vegan naan sandwich. Elena, surprisingly adventurous, tried a bit of both. The owners, Lyly and Lao, were incredibly welcoming, making us feel like we were dining in their home. The service was impeccable, and the food was simply divine.


Experience culinary excellence at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails in Côn Đảo – where fusion flavors meet stunning ocean views.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, hand in hand, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. The sky was ablaze with stars, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of the ocean. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, a fitting farewell to the Con Dao Islands.

Reflecting on our time here, I am struck by the incredible beauty and tranquility of this place. The Con Dao Islands are truly a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural richness. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family. It has brought us closer together and created memories that we will cherish forever.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of me will always remain in Con Dao. This island has captured my heart, and I hope to return someday to explore its hidden corners and reconnect with its warm and welcoming people.

For now, it's time to say *tạm biệt*, farewell, to this beautiful island paradise. Thank you, Con Dao, for the memories, the lessons, and the unforgettable experiences. Until we meet again...

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and we'll be heading back to Germany with hearts full of memories. While I'm sad to leave this beautiful island, I'm also excited to share our experiences with all of you and inspire you to embark on your own adventures. Stay tuned for my final reflections on this incredible journey!