Sofia's Solo Escape to the Serene Con Dao Islands

A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

Today was a day of deep reflection, a journey through Con Dao's poignant history and spiritual heart. I wanted to understand the island's past and present, and I think I managed to do just that. It was a day of contrasts, moving from the somber halls of Côn Đảo Prison to the serene heights of Van Son Pagoda, and finally, to the vibrant flavors of local cuisine.


Explore the deep historical significance of Côn Đảo Prison, a poignant war museum on Con Dao Island, Vietnam, and reflect on the resilience of the human spirit.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. I decided to skip the hotel breakfast and explore a local eatery instead. The cafe was cozy and inviting, with a warm atmosphere that made me feel right at home. I opted for the avocado toast with eggs, and it was absolutely delicious. The avocado was perfectly ripe, and I added smoked sausages to make it feel like a new meal. The peanut butter coffee was also a must-try; it was strong but really good. It definitely gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead.

After breakfast, I headed to Côn Đảo Prison. This place is a stark reminder of Vietnam's tumultuous past. Established in 1862 by French colonialists, it was used to detain political prisoners. Later, the Americans continued to use the prison during the war. The prison complex includes various camps like Phu Hai, Phu Son, and Phu Tho, each with its own haunting stories.

Walking through the prison, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sorrow and respect for the prisoners who endured unimaginable hardships. The tiger cages were particularly horrific, with their cramped cells and inhumane conditions. It's hard to believe that such cruelty existed. The prison is a place where the qualities and willpower of revolutionary soldiers were forged.

Visiting Con Dao Prison is a chilling reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable suffering.

After spending a few hours at the prison, I needed a change of scenery. So, I made my way to Van Son Pagoda, also known as Nui Mot Pagoda. Located halfway up Nui Mot Mountain, it’s one of the most revered spiritual sites in Con Dao. The views from the pagoda were breathtaking, overlooking Con Son Bay and the town below.


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 pagoda was originally built in 1964 during the Vietnam War to serve as a religious site for soldiers and government officials. It was completely restored in 2011 and is now a symbol of resilience and devotion. As I walked around the pagoda, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. The intricate architecture and serene Buddha statues were truly captivating.

After visiting the pagoda, I was ready for some lunch. I decided to try Nhà hàng Thu Ba, a local restaurant known for its seafood. I ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh fish, grilled squid, and shrimp. Everything was incredibly flavorful and well-prepared. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.


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

In the late afternoon, I made my way to Julia's Garden - Cafe and Dining for dinner. This place is a hidden gem. The owner, Hoa, is incredibly welcoming and makes you feel right at home. The restaurant has a lovely decor, and the staff is very friendly. They source their ingredients from the garden on the property, which makes the dishes even more special. I tried the stir-fried noodles with freshly picked beans, and it was absolutely delicious.


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.

As the day drew to a close, I decided to check out Sunset Lounge for a drink. Located atop The Secret hotel, this lounge offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. I ordered a cocktail and watched the sunset, reflecting on the day's experiences. The combination of the beautiful scenery, delicious drinks, and vibrant music made it a perfect ending to a memorable day. It was a bit sad that Maximilian and Elena weren't here to share this with me, but I made sure to take lots of pictures for them!


Experience the breathtaking views and exquisite flavors at Sunset Lounge, Côn Đảo's premier dining destination.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Hòn Tre Lớn and Bãi Nhát. I've heard that Hòn Tre Lớn is a beautiful island with pristine beaches, and Bãi Nhát is known for its stunning coastal views. I'm also looking forward to trying some new restaurants, including Infinity Cafe & Restaurant for breakfast and Nhà hàng Phố Biển for lunch. And maybe I'll do some shopping at Mocoda Shop. I'm excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring. For now, good night from Con Dao! I'm off to get some well-deserved rest.

I'm so glad I remembered to pack my camera and sunscreen; I would have been kicking myself if I hadn't. I'm still kicking myself for forgetting my sunglasses and portable power bank, though! I guess you can't always be perfectly prepared.

I think Con Dao is a great place to explore on your own, as I am discovering. I find myself more open to experiences and more willing to strike up conversations with locals. Perhaps I'll bring Maximilian and Elena here next year!