Sofia's Solo Escape to the Serene Con Dao Islands

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today marked the official start of my solo adventure in the Con Dao Islands, and what a day it was! I decided to dedicate my first day to immersing myself in the local history and savoring the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s amazing how much you can learn and experience when you’re open to it, and I was ready to soak it all in.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. It was a delightful start, fueling me up for the day ahead. The restaurant was indeed a secret gem, tucked away in a cozy corner of the island. The menu was filled with traditional Vietnamese dishes, and I opted for a classic pho to kick things off. The rich broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs were the perfect way to start my exploration of Con Dao.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at The Secret Restaurant in Côn Đảo - where every meal is a delightful journey into local flavors.
With a full stomach and a sense of excitement, I headed to the Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, or the Con Dao Museum. As someone deeply interested in history and cultural anthropology, I was eager to learn about the island's past. The museum is located in the center of Con Dao Island, making it easily accessible. The museum visit proved to be a deeply moving experience. The exhibits comprehensively record the island's history, including the French colonial era and the prison period.


Explore the profound history and stunning beauty of Bảo Tàng Côn Đảo, a must-visit museum on Côn Đảo Island, Vietnam, for an enriching cultural experience.
The museum houses over 2,000 exhibits, including rare documents, dioramas, and photographs. It was fascinating to see how the island transformed over time, from its early days to its role in the resistance wars. I learned about the Vietnamese soldiers imprisoned here and the torments they endured.

Visiting the Con Dao Museum is not just a tour; it's a journey through time that offers a deeper understanding of Vietnam's historical landscape.

After spending a few hours at the museum, I walked to the Island Chief Palace, also known as the Lord's House. This historical site once served as the central hub for the island's prison system. Built between 1862 and 1876, the palace offered a stark contrast to the hardships faced by the prisoners on the island. I explored the lush gardens and the various sections of the house, including the leisure area, the lord's bedroom, and the dining area.


Explore the Island Chief Palace, a historical gem in Con Dao, Vietnam, showcasing rich culture, stunning architecture, and captivating stories from the past.
The Island Chief Palace provided a glimpse into the lives of the colonial administrators and their families. It was interesting to see the artifacts and exhibits that showcased their daily routines and social interactions. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens with mature trees, offering a serene environment. The contrast between the palace's luxury and the prisoners' harsh conditions was striking.

For lunch, I decided to try Vietnamese By The Market, a restaurant known for its authentic traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Chef No and her team prepared a range of daily specials, and I couldn't resist trying the Pho Bo – Beef Noodles. It was absolutely delicious, and I savored every bite while reflecting on the morning's historical explorations.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Côn Đảo's landscape.
After lunch, I did a little shopping at Côn Đảo Gift. I wanted to find a few souvenirs to remind me of my time here, and this shop had a great selection of local crafts and products. I picked up a few small items, including a Pulo Bear, a cute souvenir that represents the map of Con Dao.


Explore Côn Đảo Gift for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of Côn Đảo, Vietnam.
As the day drew to a close, I made my way to the Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo for dinner. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with lots of greenery and cozy corners. I settled in with a refreshing cocktail and ordered a homemade pasta dish. The meal was the perfect end to a day filled with history and culture.


Experience culinary excellence at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails in Côn Đảo – where fusion flavors meet stunning ocean views.
October in Con Dao is proving to be quite pleasant. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F), and the rain is less frequent. It's ideal for outdoor activities like exploring historical sites and enjoying the local cuisine. The humidity is high, but there are occasional light breezes that make it comfortable.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a leisurely stroll along the beach. The sky was clear, and the stars were shining brightly. It was a perfect moment of solitude and reflection. I thought about Maximilian and Elena back in Bielefeld. I miss them dearly, but I know this solo trip is something I need to do for myself. I thought about how much Elena would have loved running around the Island Chief Palace gardens. I made a mental note to bring them back here someday.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Côn Đảo Prison and Van Son Pagoda. I've heard that the prison is a sobering but important place to understand the island's history. And I’m looking forward to experiencing the tranquility of the pagoda. I might even check out the Sunset Lounge for a drink in the evening.

As I settle in for the night, I feel grateful for the experiences of today. Con Dao has already captured my heart with its rich history, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It's always interesting to see the blend of tourists and locals, each drawn to the unique charm of Con Dao. The island's blend of history and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination. As I walked through the Con Dao Gift shop, I noticed a variety of locally-made souvenirs and handicrafts. The shop was a great place to find unique mementos of my visit.

I'm also mindful of being a responsible and sustainable tourist. I make sure to dispose of trash properly and respect the local customs and traditions. It's important to me that my travels have a positive impact on the places I visit.

The Con Dao Islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. As I continue my solo adventure, I look forward to discovering more hidden gems and sharing my experiences with all of you.

Good night from Con Dao! I’m off to dream of ancient palaces and flavorful pho.