Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Island Arrival: Con Dao's Warm Embrace

After a long journey from Germany, with a brief stopover in Ho Chi Minh City, we finally arrived in the Con Dao Islands. The air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn air we left behind in Bielefeld. Maximilian, Elena, and I were excited to start our 12-day family adventure in this Vietnamese paradise. Today was all about settling in and soaking up the local atmosphere, and I couldn't wait to share our first impressions.

Our first stop was the Côn Đảo National Park Tourist Office. I wanted to gather as much information as possible about the park's trails and conservation efforts. It's fascinating to learn about the local ecosystem, especially since Con Dao is known for its diverse marine life and lush forests. The office provided us with maps and brochures, and we learned about the best spots for snorkeling and diving, activities I'm eager to try later in our trip.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Côn Đảo National Park, Vietnam's hidden paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Afterward, we headed to Van Son Pagoda, also known as Nui Mot Pagoda, the island's only Buddhist temple. Nestled halfway up Nui Mot Mountain, the pagoda offered a serene escape with stunning views. Elena was especially captivated by the intricate architecture and the peaceful ambiance. As we walked around, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. It was a perfect way to start our trip, connecting with the spiritual side of the island.


Explore the serene beauty of Van Son Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage.

“The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.”

Lunch was at Vietnamese By The Market, a charming restaurant that promised authentic local cuisine. The fragrant pho and crispy spring rolls were a hit with all of us. Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, tried a daily special recommended by Chef No, who uses locally sourced ingredients. Elena enjoyed the pho, slurping up the noodles with gusto. It was heartwarming to see her embrace the local flavors with such enthusiasm.


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

Later in the afternoon, we explored Côn Đảo Market, the island's main marketplace. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to seafood. I was particularly drawn to the stalls offering unique delicacies from the sea, like oysters, sea urchins, and snails. Elena was fascinated by the colorful array of fruits and vegetables, many of which she had never seen before. I picked up some fresh ingredients for a simple dinner at our guesthouse, eager to try my hand at recreating some of the dishes we had tasted earlier in the day.


Explore Côn Đảo Market, where vibrant local culture meets delicious street food and unique handicrafts in a lively atmosphere.

In the evening, we dined at Nhà hàng Thu Ba, a well-known restaurant with a long history on the island. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were distinctly Vietnamese. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, stir-fried vegetables, and a flavorful seafood hotpot. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we felt like we were getting a true taste of Con Dao's culinary scene.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood delicacies at Nhà Hàng Thu Ba in Côn Đảo's stunning surroundings.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we strolled through the town center, soaking in the evening atmosphere. The streets were bustling with locals and tourists alike, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music. We stopped at a local cafe for some Vietnamese coffee, a strong and sweet concoction that gave us a much-needed energy boost. It was a perfect end to our first day, leaving us feeling energized and excited for what's to come.

As I reflect on our first day, I am struck by the warmth and hospitality of the Con Dao people. Despite its dark history as a prison island, Con Dao has emerged as a place of incredible beauty and resilience. The blend of cultural experiences, natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine has already captivated us, and I know that the next 11 days will be filled with even more unforgettable moments. Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the island's history with a visit to the Côn Đảo Prison and Hang Duong Cemetery. It will be a sobering experience, but one that I believe is essential to understanding the spirit of this remarkable place. We might even end the day with a relaxing drink at the Sunset Lounge, reflecting on everything we've learned.

After all the traveling I’ve done, it’s still the simple things that I appreciate the most. Even though I forgot to pack insect repellent and a portable phone charger, the day was perfect, and I'm sure I can find them at Takai Mart Côn Đảo. The experiences and memories we created today are priceless, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share them with my family. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Oh, and I’m already thinking about breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. Maybe I’ll try their signature Pho!