A journey to Con Dao today allows visitors to truly understand the immense sacrifice of generations who fought for Vietnam’s independence, while also witnessing the remarkable transformation of this island district after 45 years of liberation.
Con Dao consists of 16 islands, each associated with its own legends and historical stories. Among them, Con Lon (Con Son) is the largest island and home to more than 8,000 residents living peacefully between the blue sea and ancient forests.
Historical Imprints Still Intact
Our first stop was the prison system and Hàng Dương Cemetery—where tens of thousands of patriots and revolutionary soldiers were once incarcerated, including well-known figures such as Phan Chu Trinh, Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Nguyễn An Ninh, Lê Hồng Phong, Tôn Đức Thắng, and Võ Thị Sáu.
For over a century, the prison witnessed the deaths of more than 20,000 Vietnamese patriots under the brutality of colonial and imperial regimes.
Hàng Dương Cemetery, covering 20 hectares across four zones (A, B, C, D), is the resting place of thousands of revolutionaries who were imprisoned and killed from 1862 to April 30, 1975. Unlike many cemeteries, Hàng Dương welcomes visitors day and night. Locals say nighttime visits best reveal the solemn, sacred atmosphere of this historic place—especially at the grave of national heroine Võ Thị Sáu, where incense never stops burning.
Con Dao Today: Peaceful, Green, and Full of Life
Leaving the cemetery, we explored the charming coastal town, lined with colonial-era houses tucked under ancient tropical almond trees. Quiet roads weave along turquoise shores, and the warm-hearted people here continue to devote themselves to protecting Vietnam’s maritime sovereignty. At night, the town glows softly, creating an enchanting scene unique to Con Dao.
Transport links to the mainland have improved significantly in recent years. Multiple high-speed ferries operate daily, and the expansion of Con Dao Airport has brought the island closer than ever. Visitors can easily join eco-excursions such as trekking through tropical forests, snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, watching sea turtles nest, releasing baby turtles, or exploring the surrounding islands.
Rising to Become a Leading Tourism Destination
According to Nguyễn Hoàng Tùng, Secretary of the Con Dao District Party Committee, the island generated nearly VND 2.735 trillion in commercial and service revenue in 2019—up 12% from 2018.
The district continues to invest in upgrading historical sites and developing marine–ecotourism while implementing a series of new urban and tourism development plans:
- New residential zones
- A central commercial district
- Tôn Đức Thắng walking street
- The Con Dao Urban Development Program
These initiatives together are giving Con Dao a fresh, modern, and dynamic appearance.
Toward a Green, Clean, and Sustainable Con Dao
Con Dao prioritizes high-tech, environmentally friendly development projects that preserve its natural beauty. Local authorities actively promote environmental awareness, enforce stricter regulations to protect marine biodiversity, and work closely with residents and businesses to maintain a clean, sustainable tourism environment.
Despite its distance from the mainland, Con Dao’s social and cultural life continues to flourish. Schools and public facilities have been upgraded, and the overall quality of life for residents is improving year after year.
Con Dao – A Land of Pain, Resilience, and Remarkable Renewal
Under the sun and sea breeze, each visitor can feel the powerful transformation of this once-devastated island. Today, Con Dao stands as both a sacred historical landmark and a captivating eco–spiritual destination—one that leaves a lasting impression and beckons travelers to return again.
