Con Dao Islands, a pristine archipelago of 16 islands nestled approximately 180 kilometers off Vietnam’s southern coast, offers a tropical escape like no other. Known as Con Lon and Con Son, these islands are part of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province and are a mere 100 kilometers from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh.
Exploring Con Dao reveals a culinary delight, with local specialties that tantalize the taste buds. From rare seafood to exotic dishes, here’s a guide to the must-try foodie experiences that will leave you craving more.
Moon Crab
A rare treat, the Moon Crab is a variety of seafood unique to Con Dao. While resembling other sea crabs in shape, its shell sets it apart with distinctive red dots, akin to a moon. Steaming is the preferred method to prepare this delicacy. Dip a piece of the sweet, firm, and mineral-rich meat into a hint of salt and lime, and savor the explosion of flavors as it melts in your mouth. Alternatively, tamarind sauce or a hot pot are other mouth-watering options. For an authentic experience, head to Tri Ki Restaurant on Nguyen Duc Thuan Street.
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| Moon crab, a rare seafood delicacy and a famous specialty of Con Dao. Photo: Nguoi Ha Noi |
Vu Nang Snail
Con Dao’s Vu Nang snail is a culinary sensation, available year-round but most abundant during full moon phases. Boiled or grilled, this unique snail is a local favorite. The grilled dish, in particular, is a flavor explosion with its fragrant, sweet, creamy, and fatty meat, best paired with a glass of wine.
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| Vu Nang Snail, a unique delicacy and famous food of Con Dao Island. Photo: MIA |
This snail is a true specialty, found only in select locations such as the Con Dao Sea, Cu Lao Cham Sea, and the Dai Lanh area in Khanh Hoa. Each recipe showcases its versatility and distinct flavor profile.
Sun-Dried Squid
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| Sun-dried squid, a Con Dao specialty, is a favorite among tourists. Photo: Dien may XANH |
Caught by locals under the cover of night, the freshest and largest squid are carefully selected and sun-dried, requiring minimal processing. A true taste of the sea, this specialty can be found in Con Dao’s specialty stores, supermarkets, and markets, typically priced at VND300,000-400,000/kg.
Sea Urchin Porridge
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| Sea urchin porridge, a delicious and nutritious seafood dish. |
Sea urchin porridge is a gift from the sea, both delicious and packed with nutrients. The urchins are carefully prepared, marinated with spices, and stir-fried before being added to a pot of porridge, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.
Sa Sung
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| Sa Sung, a versatile seafood ingredient used in a variety of dishes on Con Dao Island. Photo: Dien may XANH |
Sa Sung, a unique seafood species, is abundantly available on Con Dao from March to July. It is a versatile ingredient, starring in dishes such as salad, soup, fried vegetables, crispy treats, and porridge. For a simple yet mouth-watering option, try grilled Sa Sung with chili sauce at Thu Ba restaurant, a renowned seafood destination on the island.
Catfish Salad
Con Dao’s Catfish Salad is an exotic and nutritious delight. Using only the freshest, firmest parts of the catfish’s back, the fish is carefully marinated to remove any fishy smell and then blended with a harmonious mix of galangal, lemongrass, and turmeric. The result is a dish that dances on your palate, with the soft, fragrant fish complemented by the spicy kick of mustard and a medley of natural ingredients.
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| Catfish Salad, a renowned dish in Con Dao, combines soft, fragrant fish with a spicy kick. Photo: Vietnamnet |
10 Most Amazing Landscapes in Vietnam
Home to an extensive collection of historical and cultural attractions, Vietnam is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating countries in Southeast Asia. Nature enthusiasts can also find plenty of sightseeing opportunities throughout their holiday, ranging from pristine beaches and untouched islets to towering mountains and tropical forests housing thousands of rare wildlife species. There’s even a Sahara-like desert landscape where you can enjoy thrilling activities such as sandboarding and quad biking. For those looking to experience the local lifestyle, Vietnam has hill-tribes and rice farmers along the north mountain ranges, while fisherman villages are scattered throughout the middle and southern regions of the country. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 most amazing landscapes in Vietnam, each of which offer truly unique photo opportunities and experiences for the adventurous at heart.
What to Do in Vung Tau and Con Dao Islands
It would seem a paradox but Vung Tau gains a lot from being the biggest crude oil extraction centre of Vietnam. As a result it has a more able infrastructure compared with many cities in the country and it’s easy to get around and see the many sights. For the historic Con Dao Island, one should not miss the opportunity to visit the infamous prisons and their ‘tiger cages’ before heading off to see the island’s beautiful National Park and other locations.
Con Dao travelling: all things you need to know about the top secluded attraction in Vietnam
Located in southern Vietnam, Con Dao is an archipelago comprising 16 islands, which is famous for the most pristine beaches and attracts many tourist by long-standing historical value. Here are all things you need to know about travelling to this dreamland.
Con Dao – the greatest destination and most mysterious island on planet
Con Dao – The place has been honoured in the top 20 most mysterious islands in the world by US’s Travel and Leisure Magazine, which becomes a sacred and beautiful destination for the tourists all over the world.
A Great Beauty Of The Ocean
HCMC – Con Dao Islands give visitors special feelings with its historic relics and breathtaking scenes. This time of the year is ideal for making a trip to the islands boasting beautiful blue sea and white sand.
