TimeOut lists Con Dao among world’s 24 most underrated travel destinations

Con Dao (Poulo Condor) makes up a large national park, which means there is pristine nature to see wherever you look, according to writer Grace Beard.

She also suggested exploring Hon Bay Canh islet, a sanctuary for nesting turtles and their newborn babies, walking under ancient trees in Ong Dung Primeval Forest, or taking a picturesque hike to the peak of Mount Thanh Gia.

For those seeking to enjoy a dash of history, visitors should follow in the footsteps of Vietnamese pilgrims to Con Dao Museum and old prison sites, all of which give a glimpse into the island’s sobering history as a former penal colony, suggested British magazine TimeOut.

Topping the list is Filandia of Colombia, a charming small town which features multicoloured balconies and rolling green hills.

Others destinations to make the list include Southern Tunisia, São Sebastião in Brazil, Prince Edward Island in Canada, Sibiu in Romania, Tasmania and Newcastle in Australia, and Cochamó Valley in Chile.