Government plans tourism upgrades on Con Dao Island

The government plans major upgrades of facilities and infrastructure on Con Dao Island towards making it a "regional level eco-tourism area."

Under adjustments made to a general construction plan (with vision towards 2045) it has made for the archipelago that comprises 16 islands spread across 76 square kilometers, highly competitive branded tourism products will also be introduced.

The island's airport, roads, waterways and piers will be upgraded while ensuring that construction work does not affect airport operations.

The population of Con Dao, currently 10,500, is expected to rise to 15,000 by 2030 and 25,000 by 2045.

Citing "limited land funds," it has asked provincial authorities to consider "effective exploitation" while building and developing residential and tourist areas on the islands.

Located off the southern Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, Con Dao used to be known for a large prison first established by the French and later used by the Americans during the Vietnam War.

Today, it is a famous tourist attraction for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters.

In 2019, the island welcomed 400,000 tourists, up 37 percent year-on-year.

The Vietnam Air Services Company, or VASCO, a subsidiary of Vietnam Airlines, and the FLC Group’s Bamboo Airways are the only two carriers operating regular flights to the island at present.