From a place once known as the “Hell on Earth,” Con Dao today is rising with vibrant energy and new opportunities. Locals take immense pride in living on this sacred island of Vietnam—where tens of thousands of revolutionaries sacrificed their lives for national independence—and take even greater pride in witnessing Con Dao enter a promising new phase of development.
A New Face for Con Dao
In recent years, Con Dao’s socio-economic landscape has transformed significantly, following the strategic direction set by the local government. Infrastructure for transportation, electricity, water supply, and urban beautification has been continuously improved. Landmarks such as Hang Duong Cemetery, the Con Dao Museum, the Con Dao Temple, and Nui Mot Pagoda have been upgraded, giving the island a refreshed appearance that attracts both tourists and investors.
Beyond its world-renowned historical sites—including the Con Dao Prison system and Hang Duong Cemetery—the island boasts countless natural treasures: Chim Chim Cape, Shark Cape, Dam Tre Bay, Ong Cau Beach, Ong Dung Beach, Mount Thanh Gia, and dozens of surrounding islets ideal for eco-tourism, beach relaxation, snorkeling, wildlife observation, and watching sea turtles nest.
Tourism Booms, Local Livelihoods Improve
Between 2017 and 2019, Con Dao saw a surge in private investment. Hundreds of mini hotels, homestays, restaurants, and local businesses were developed, demonstrating a rapidly growing economy and improving living standards.
In 2019 alone, Con Dao welcomed nearly 400,000 visitors, a 37% increase compared to 2018. Total revenue from trade and tourism exceeded several trillion VND, opening new opportunities for local households to expand their livelihoods.
The island has also attracted more than 50 proposed investment projects, highlighting its strong appeal. Local authorities are accelerating land-use procedures to enable these developments to begin, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
Comprehensive Planning for Sustainable Growth
To prepare for the future, Con Dao has completed multiple key development plans:
- Planning four new residential areas
- Establishing a central commercial district
- Developing the Tôn Đức Thắng walking street
- Implementing the Con Dao Urban Development Program
The district is also rolling out foreign-language training programs for residents, aiming to build a community with strong tourism culture and service skills. At the same time, the government is actively coordinating with national agencies to expand Con Dao Airport—an essential step to connect the island directly with major tourism hubs across Vietnam.
Con Dao – A Destination of Today and Tomorrow
With strategic investment, long-term planning, and a rare combination of historical depth and natural beauty, Con Dao is poised for a breakthrough era. From a heroic land of national resistance, it has transformed into a symbol of renewal—an island of green, sustainable, and high-quality tourism that visitors come to admire and always wish to return to.
