Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Island Life Unveiled

Today was a beautiful blend of bustling local culture and serene natural beauty. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to immerse myself in the everyday rhythms of a place and discover hidden gems along the way. I am excited to share the experiences we had today with you all!

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining. The cafe was indeed a hidden gem, nestled amidst lush greenery. The air was fresh, and the atmosphere was incredibly welcoming. The owner, Hoa, was so kind and made us feel right at home. Elena was immediately captivated by the cute cats roaming around the garden, while Maximilian and I enjoyed the peaceful ambiance. I savored a strong Vietnamese coffee while Maximilian opted for a refreshing mulberry mojito, and Elena enjoyed some fresh fruit. The food was delicious, prepared with ingredients sourced directly from the garden. It was the perfect way to start our day.


Discover culinary delights at Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining in Côn Đảo, where every meal is a celebration of Vietnamese flavors amidst stunning scenery.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the Côn Đảo Market. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, a sensory overload in the best way possible. The sounds of vendors calling out their wares, the scent of fresh produce and seafood, and the colorful displays of goods created an immersive experience. I loved seeing the locals going about their daily routines, haggling over prices, and catching up with friends. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood on offer. I was particularly fascinated by the unique delicacies from the sea that I had never seen before. Maximilian, ever the practical one, was impressed by the clean and organized layout of the market. Elena, of course, was drawn to the sweets and treats on display, and we indulged her with some deep-fried banana sticks, a local specialty. It was a treat!


Explore the vibrant Côn Đảo Market, where local culture thrives through fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique handmade crafts.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never even thought to ask.

After the market, we decided to escape the hustle and bustle and head to Dat Tham Beach. Getting there was an adventure in itself. The beach is accessible through a 3km trail in the forest, which meant a bit of a trek. We purchased tickets from The National Park gate and started our walk. The trail was well-maintained with educational signage, and Elena enjoyed learning about the local flora and fauna. The forest was peaceful, with the sounds of nature all around us. It was a welcome escape from the busy market.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Dat Tham Beach, a serene paradise in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Finally, we arrived at Dat Tham Beach. It was a serene and secluded oasis with clear waters and soft white sands. The beach was relatively rocky, but the views were stunning. We spent the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing on the shore. Elena built sandcastles while Maximilian and I enjoyed the tranquility of the surroundings. The water was so clear, and we could see colorful corals just a short distance from the beach. We even found a small stream with drinkable water, which was a refreshing surprise. It was the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

For lunch, we stopped at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh. The restaurant had a charming and cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including pho and spring rolls, and everything was delicious. It was a great opportunity to try some authentic local cuisine.


Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh in beautiful Côn Đảo - where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, before heading back to our guesthouse, I wanted to check out Mocoda Shop. I had read online that they have some nice local handicrafts, and I wanted to get a few souvenirs. It was a small shop but they indeed had some beautiful handcrafted items, and I ended up buying a few gifts for friends and family back home.


Explore Côn Đảo with ease at Mocoda Shop, your go-to convenience store for snacks and local products in Vietnam's beautiful island paradise.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng - Seafood Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning oceanfront views. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but we were able to get a table with a perfect view of the harbor. We ordered a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, crab curry, and shrimp stir-fry. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the portions were generous. Elena especially loved the grilled fish, while Maximilian raved about the crab curry. As we ate, we watched the fishing boats returning to the harbor, their lights twinkling in the distance. It was a magical experience and a perfect end to a wonderful day.


Experience the freshest seafood delights with stunning views at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng in beautiful Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Holy Cave and Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. I am sure it will be another day filled with meaningful experiences. I also look forward to relaxing at On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar [null].

It is amazing to think that Con Dao has been called hell on earth. Today, I experienced a slice of heaven. I cannot wait to see what tomorrow brings!

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.