Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

A Day of Remembrance

Today in Con Dao was a poignant blend of historical reflection and spiritual connection. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to learn, to remember, and to connect with the stories of people and places. Sharing these experiences with Maximilian and Elena makes it all the more meaningful.

Our day began with a delightful vegetarian breakfast at Madame Hà - Vegetarian Cuisine. Finding a vegetarian spot that caters to my dietary preferences is always a win, and this place was a gem. The fresh, organic ingredients made the meal both nutritious and delicious. Elena even enjoyed the summer rolls, which is always a plus! It's wonderful to see her trying new things and embracing the local cuisine.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Holy Cave, also known as Hang Đức Mẹ. This cave, nestled within Con Dao National Park, holds a special place in the island's history. It served as a place of worship for French soldiers, who placed a statue of Our Lady within its depths. The walk to the cave was a mini-trek through the lush, primeval forest, with stone steps leading the way. Even though it was a bit challenging, the tranquility of the surroundings made it a peaceful experience. Inside, the cave was small and serene, with the altar adorned with statues of Our Lady and Jesus. It was a quiet moment of reflection, thinking about the layers of history and the resilience of faith in this remote place. It's amazing to find such a unique Catholic church in Asia.


Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Holy Cave, a hidden gem in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, perfect for pilgrimage and adventure.

Visiting historical sites like the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave allows us to honor the past and appreciate the sacrifices made for freedom and independence.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave. This is a site of immense significance in Con Dao, dedicated to Vo Thi Sau, a young woman who became a symbol of Vietnamese resistance against French colonial rule. Born in 1933, she joined the Viet Minh at the age of 13 and was executed on Con Son Island in 1952 at the age of 19. Her story is one of bravery and sacrifice, and her grave has become a pilgrimage site for many Vietnamese people.


Explore Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave in Con Dao, Vietnam—a serene memorial honoring the resilience and sacrifice of a national hero amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

The cemetery itself, Hang Duong Cemetery, is the largest on the island and the final resting place for thousands of revolutionaries and patriots. As we walked through the rows of graves, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence and sadness. Many of the graves are simple, some unnamed, but each one represents a life sacrificed for the cause of independence. The atmosphere was both solemn and peaceful, with the scent of incense filling the air as visitors paid their respects.

Vo Thi Sau’s grave is always adorned with fresh flowers and burning incense. It is a place where people come to honor her memory and seek her blessings. We saw many locals and tourists alike, offering prayers and paying tribute to this legendary heroine. It was a deeply moving experience, and I felt a profound sense of connection to the Vietnamese people and their history. I explained to Elena who Vo Thi Sau was, and while she is young, I hope she understood the importance of remembering those who fought for their country.

For lunch, we headed to Quán Cơm Su Su, a local eatery known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine. It was a delightful culinary experience, with a diverse menu showcasing local flavors and ingredients. I tried the fragrant rice plates, while Maximilian enjoyed the fresh seafood specialties. Elena, ever the adventurous eater, even sampled some of the local vegetables. The restaurant had a charming, authentic vibe, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It felt like a true taste of Con Dao, away from the more touristy spots.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Quán Cơm Su Su in beautiful Côn Đảo, where flavor meets affordability.

In the late afternoon, we took some time to relax and unwind before dinner. We strolled along the beach, enjoying the sea breeze and the beautiful sunset. Elena collected seashells, while Maximilian and I simply soaked in the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect moment of family bonding, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I am so grateful for these moments with my family; they are what make these trips so special.

For dinner, we decided to try Kwai's Bistro Con Dao. This bistro offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere with a range of dishes and drinks. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring and reflection. We enjoyed some delicious snacks and refreshing drinks, while Elena was thrilled with her fruit smoothie. The bistro had a lovely ambiance, and we spent a relaxing evening chatting and enjoying each other's company.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Kwai's Bistro Con Dao, where every meal is an unforgettable experience in paradise.

As the evening drew to a close, we decided to check out On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar. This bar is known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. I opted for a handcrafted cocktail featuring local ingredients, while Maximilian enjoyed a classic beer. The bar had a lively vibe, and we enjoyed the music and the company of other travelers. It was a fun way to end a day filled with history and reflection.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at On Cloud Nine Cocktail Bar, a tropical paradise on Vietnam's stunning Côn Đảo Islands.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the layers of history and resilience that define Con Dao. From the solemn grounds of the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave to the peaceful ambiance of the Holy Cave, every corner of this island tells a story. Sharing these experiences with my family makes them even more meaningful, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn, remember, and connect with the people and places we visit.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bãi Suối Nóng (Hot Springs Beach) and Mũi Cá Mập (Shark Cape). I’m looking forward to more natural beauty and maybe a bit of relaxation. Until then, xin chào from Con Dao!