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Winter sun island is 'alternative to Maldives' with cheaper prices and less tourists

If you're already dreaming of your next summer holiday, then you might want to consider a trip to this stunning island in Vietnam which offers luxury for less

[Wilde beach Con Dao island, Vietnam with blue water. Wide landscape of Con Dao island, Vietnam]

Con Dao island is a perfect getaway(Image: Getty)

If you're dreaming of a summer getaway as the winter chill takes hold, but don't have a hefty budget, then this stunning island offering luxury at half the price could be just the ticket. Con Dao island in Vietnam has been likened to the Maldives for its beauty, but without the throngs of tourists.

Nestled off the Southern Coast of Vietnam, Con Dao is an archipelago comprising smaller islands with minimal commercial development, making it a tranquil choice. The island also plays host to a wild turtle sanctuary, so if you plan your trip for August, you could witness the unforgettable sight of these endangered hatchlings journeying to the sea.

And let's not forget the ocean itself - Con Dao boasts breathtakingly long beaches with soft white sand and crystal-clear seas ideal for kayaking and snorkelling, complete with a stunning reef to discover. Much of the island is enveloped by the Con Dao National Park, where its dense jungle offers ample opportunity to find your own slice of paradise.

Alongside its beautiful wildlife, Con Dao has a rich yet sombre history. Once a penal colony, Con Dao housed soldiers kept in horrific conditions during both the French colonial period and the Resistance War against America.

For those keen to delve deeper, a visit to the former prison and the newly established museum, housing over 2,000 photos and artefacts, is a must, reports the Mirror.

[Roofless stone building in tropical forest on Con Dao island]

The ruins of part of the prison(Image: Getty)

Con Son boasts four prison attractions, including a vast cemetery. To visit them, ensure you've secured your ticket in advance.

All four attraction tickets can be bought at Trai Phu Hai, located in the town centre, for 40,000 dong (1.20) per person, valid for one day only. If you fancy a summer getaway, the island experiences its warmest weather between June and August, while September to January are traditionally a bit cooler, but still warmer than the UK.

You can reach the island by taking one of the several daily flights from Saigon.

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