This group of islands off the southern coast of Vietnam is fast becoming one of the country’s star attractions, thanks to its natural beauty and rather exotic wildlife. Not many other places in the world are home to black giant squirrels or bow-fingered geckos. Con Son, the largest island in the archipelago, is flanked by gorgeous beaches, coral reefs, and scenic bays, so there’s plenty of exploring to do – on land as well as underwater. All rather far removed from its history as a prison island during the French colonial era, and Vietnam War. The old prison buildings are still standing and are open to the public, as is a small museum that traces the island’s history.