The Con Dao Islands are a hidden gem in Vietnam, boasting stunning beaches and clear turquoise waters. The archipelago is made up of 16 islands, with rugged cliffs and dense forests creating a breathtaking backdrop. Con Dao was once a French-run penal colony, but today, it is a peaceful and serene paradise. Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, explore the island's history at the Con Dao Prison Museum, or take a boat trip to spot sea turtles and dolphins in the surrounding waters.

The closest airport to the Con Dao Islands is Co Ong Airport, which offers flights from Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors can also take a 12-hour ferry from Vung Tau. Once on the island, visitors can rent a motorbike or take a taxi to explore.

The best time to visit Con Dao is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is sunny and warm. However, visitors can still enjoy the islands during the rainy season from May to November, when the landscape is lush and green.

Con Dao has a tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C. The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit, with little rain and plenty of sunshine. During the rainy season from May to November, visitors can expect occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Accommodation on Con Dao ranges from budget to luxury. Budget options start at around $20 USD per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts start at around $50 USD per night. Luxury options can cost upwards of $200 USD per night.

Food on Con Dao is reasonably priced, with local street food starting at around $1 USD per meal. Restaurants and cafes offer a variety of cuisines, with a meal costing around $5-10 USD. Seafood is a specialty of the island and is reasonably priced.

Con Dao is generally considered a safe destination. Crime rates are low, and visitors can feel safe exploring the island alone. The island is also LGBTQ-friendly, and visitors report feeling welcome and accepted.

The population of Con Dao is around 5,000, with the majority of residents being ethnic Vietnamese. The official language is Vietnamese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The island is predominantly Buddhist, with a small Catholic community.

The main activities for visitors on Con Dao are relaxing on the beaches, exploring the island's history at the Con Dao Prison Museum, and taking boat trips to spot sea turtles and dolphins. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities, with clear waters and colorful coral reefs to explore.