Sofia's Solo Escape to the Serene Con Dao Islands

Con Dao's Coastal Charms
Today was a symphony of sun, sea, and serenity, as I continued my exploration of the Con Dao Islands. Trading the familiar streets of Bielefeld for the tranquil shores of Vietnam has been quite the refreshing change. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my marketing briefs for a travel journal, even if Max and Elena are terribly missed. Today, I embraced the island's slower pace, discovering hidden gems and savoring the local culture.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant. I sipped on a robust Vietnamese coffee, a far cry from my usual German Frühstück, while enjoying the gentle morning breeze. The cafe's ambiance was charming, with a blend of Asian and European influences. It was the perfect spot to plan my day, feeling grateful for this solo adventure and the chance to reconnect with myself. It was a great start to the day to see what the island had in store for me.


Discover delectable Vietnamese cuisine at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant, where breathtaking views meet culinary excellence in Côn Đảo.

With a full stomach and a sense of adventure, I set off to explore Hòn Tre Lớn. This island, a short boat ride away, is a haven of natural beauty. The boat ride itself was an experience, with the turquoise waters sparkling under the tropical sun. As we approached the island, the lush greenery beckoned, promising a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the untouched beauty of Hòn Tre Lớn, a tranquil island retreat in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, offering stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The island is known for its diverse ecosystem and is home to rare species of birds and marine life. I spent hours trekking through the verdant trails, marveling at the unique flora and fauna. The air was filled with the sounds of exotic birds, a melody that replaced the city's cacophony. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island are said to be the most beautiful in Con Dao. Although I didn't get a chance to dive, I promised myself I would find time before leaving Con Dao.

The beauty of Con Dao lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, but in the profound sense of peace it instills in those who wander its shores.

After my nature walk, I was ready for lunch. I headed to Nhà hàng Phố Biển, a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood. I indulged in a delicious meal of grilled fish and shrimp, savoring the flavors of the sea. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with open-air seating that allowed me to enjoy the sea breeze and the stunning views. It was a delightful culinary experience, a true taste of Vietnamese gastronomy, and a welcome change from my usual cooking back home in Bielefeld. I even tried to recreate one of the sauces later, jotting down notes in my travel journal.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà hàng Phố Biển in Côn Đảo - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

In the afternoon, I visited Bãi Nhát, a beach renowned for its pristine beauty and unique landscape. The beach is only visible during low tide, revealing a stretch of white sand and multi-colored rocks. The mountain range in the distance, resembling a couple embracing, added to the beach's charm.


Discover the serene beauty of Bãi Nhát, a hidden coastal paradise on Côn Đảo Island, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.

I spent hours walking along the shore, collecting seashells and taking in the breathtaking views. The tranquility of the beach was mesmerizing, a perfect spot for introspection and reflection. It was easy to see why Bãi Nhát is considered one of Asia's most pristine beaches. The beach's serene atmosphere was a balm to my soul, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. October, with its warm temperatures and less frequent rain, is proving to be a delightful time to visit.

Before dinner, I stopped by Mocoda Shop, a local store offering a variety of snacks and local products. I picked up a few souvenirs for Max and Elena, a small token of my adventure. I wanted to bring a piece of Con Dao back to Germany, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility I had found here. I also grabbed some local snacks to try later, eager to explore the island's culinary offerings further.


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 day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, perfect for a solo diner seeking a comforting meal. I savored a delicious seafood hotpot, a flavorful and satisfying end to a day of exploration. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore added to the restaurant's charm, creating a sensory experience that was both relaxing and invigorating.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Hàng Cánh Buồm in Côn Đảo, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Dat Tham Beach and the Holy Cave. I'm also looking forward to unwinding at the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House. Each day here unveils a new layer of beauty and tranquility, solidifying my love for solo travel and the wonders it reveals. It's these moments of solitude and discovery that make me feel truly alive, a sentiment I hope to carry back with me to Bielefeld.

Con Dao continues to surprise and delight me, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It's a place where I can disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself, a journey of self-discovery that I will cherish forever. I am so looking forward for what tomorrow will bring.