Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Day 7: Island Escapes and Culinary Delights: Discovering Con Dao's Hidden Gems

Exploring the serene beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng, the dramatic cliffs of Mũi Cá Mập, and savoring local flavors in Con Dao's charming restaurants.

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Paradise Found: A Day of Discovery on Con Dao


Today was a day of pure bliss, filled with the kind of experiences that make you feel truly alive. From the soothing warmth of a secluded beach to the dramatic vistas of rugged coastlines, and the explosion of flavors at local eateries, Con Dao continued to enchant me. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share these moments with my family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. The resort is beautiful. The Secret Restaurant had such a delicious Shakshuka eggs adorned with a rich tomato sauce. Elena was happy with her breakfast, she loves eggs. Maximilian enjoyed a Pan Seared Tuna Steak.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Bãi Suối Nóng, also known as Hot Springs Beach. The name itself conjured images of relaxation, and the reality did not disappoint. The beach was a bit of a hidden gem, requiring a small trek to reach, but the reward was well worth the effort. The sand was soft and powdery between my toes, and the water was crystal clear, inviting me for a swim. It wasn't hard to see why Bãi Suối Nóng attracts visitors with its tranquil and poetic scenery.

Discover the hidden beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng, a serene beach in Vietnam offering stunning views, relaxation, and adventure in a tranquil setting.
Discover the hidden beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng, a serene beach in Vietnam offering stunning views, relaxation, and adventure in a tranquil setting.
The water was wonderfully warm, thanks to the hot springs that feed into the ocean here. Elena squealed with delight as she splashed around, building sandcastles with Maximilian while I soaked up the sun. The beach wasn't too crowded, which made it even more special. It felt like we had discovered our own little slice of paradise. It was the perfect spot for a family to unwind and reconnect with nature. I made sure to apply sunscreen, even though I forgot to pack insect repellent. It was such a revitalizing experience, a true balm for the soul. I felt so at peace, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves and the happy laughter of my family.

Sometimes, the most memorable days are the ones where you simply embrace the beauty around you and savor the simple joys of life.


After our refreshing dip, we decided to explore another of Con Dao's natural wonders: Mũi Cá Mập, or Shark Cape. This dramatic promontory offered breathtaking views of the coastline, with rugged cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters below. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the stunning scenery that Con Dao is known for. It's easy to see why so many people are drawn to Con Dao's pristine beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Mũi Cà Mau, a hidden gem in Vietnam's Ba Ria - Vung Tau region.
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culture of Mũi Cà Mau, a hidden gem in Vietnam's Ba Ria - Vung Tau region.
As we arrived at Mũi Cá Mập, the wind whipped through our hair, carrying with it the salty scent of the sea. Elena was fascinated by the rock formations, which, with a little imagination, did resemble a shark's fin rising from the water. I took some photos, trying to capture the sheer grandeur of the landscape. Maximilian pointed out a few birds soaring overhead, their calls echoing in the vastness of the sky. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, a reminder of the raw power and beauty of nature. I felt grateful to be able to share this experience with my family, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come. I am always happy to share beautiful scenery with my family.

With the sun beginning to dip towards the horizon, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling the need for some sustenance. We decided to head back to town and try out Nhà hàng Thu Tâm for lunch, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. As the biggest restaurant in Con Dao, I had high expectations for a great seafood meal.

Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm in Côn Đảo – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.
Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm in Côn Đảo – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.
The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the day's catch. We were seated at a table overlooking the water, giving us a lovely view as we perused the menu. The prices were a bit high, but the food was delicious. Maximilian ordered grilled squid, while I opted for the shrimp in garlic butter. Elena, of course, wanted the fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The seafood was incredibly fresh, bursting with the flavors of the ocean. Elena devoured her fish and chips, declaring it the best she had ever tasted. Maximilian and I savored every bite of our dishes, appreciating the simple yet exquisite flavors.

After such a satisfying lunch, a little retail therapy was in order. We stumbled upon Hin Beautytips, a charming little shop that sold local handicrafts and souvenirs. I love discovering unique treasures that reflect the culture of the places we visit, and this shop was a goldmine. I picked up a few hand-painted ceramics, perfect for adding a touch of Vietnamese flair to our home in Bielefeld. Elena chose a colorful bracelet, while Maximilian found a stylish hat to protect him from the sun. It's always fun to find little mementos that will remind us of our adventures long after we've returned home.

Discover the essence of beauty and style at Hin Beautytips, your go-to cosmetics and fashion stop in beautiful Côn Đảo.
Discover the essence of beauty and style at Hin Beautytips, your go-to cosmetics and fashion stop in beautiful Côn Đảo.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Con Son Seafood restaurant for dinner. The restaurant was praised for its fantastic food, generous portions, and friendly service. The trendy urban decor had a nostalgic vibe. The restaurant was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Maximilian and I shared oyster porridge and shrimp with garlic butter. Elena chose the fried spring rolls. The food was well balanced and flavorful. The prices were reasonable compared to other places on the island. The seafood was of high quality.

Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning coastal setting.
Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Con Son Seafood Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where freshness meets flavor in a stunning coastal setting.
Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how much Con Dao has to offer. It's not just a place of stunning natural beauty, but also a place of rich culture and warm hospitality. The people here are so welcoming, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. It's this combination of natural wonders and human connection that makes Con Dao so special. We are looking forward to discover new restaurants and activities tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sở Lò Vôi and Chim Chim Cape. I heard there are some nice beaches near Chim Chim Cape.

As I sit here writing this, with the gentle sound of the waves lulling me into a peaceful state, I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity to explore Con Dao with my family. It's a journey that has enriched our lives in so many ways, creating memories that we will cherish forever. Until tomorrow, friends, may your own adventures be filled with wonder and joy.
Go to day 6 Reflections on History and Spirituality: A Day of Remembrance in Con Dao
Go to day 8 Echoes of History and Coastal Charms on Con Dao
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Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Join us on a family adventure to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands, where pristine beaches, rich history, and cultural immersion await.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Sofia Hernandez
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Marketing Consultant
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 34

Hola a todos! I'm Sofia Hernandez, a Mexican-born marketing consultant living in Germany with my wonderful husband, Maximilian, and our daughter, Elena. While my professional life keeps me busy, my true passion lies in exploring the world and sharing my experiences with you. Through my blog, I aim to inspire you to embrace authentic travel, immerse yourselves in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, I hope my stories and insights will help you discover the beauty and wonder our world has to offer. Join me as I navigate the globe, one adventure at a time!

Interests:
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Gastronomy
  • Photography
  • History
More about Sofia Hernandez

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