With the average person checking their smartphone more than
150 times a day, being connected is more alarming than ever — and people are finally taking notice. According to Ofcom’s Communications Market Report,
15 million UK citizens took a break from technology in 2016, and
67% of Americans tried to unplug at some point last year.
Giving up your gadgets isn’t easy, but taking a digital detox trip can make it manageable. Whether you’re craving adventure or
relaxation, look up from your screen and head to one of these destinations.
1. The Westfjords, Iceland
It’s no secret that
airline stopovers increased tourism in Reykjavik, but the Westfjords remain off the beaten path. Find peace and quiet in remote seaside villages, or make some new (puffin) friends at the
largest bird cliff in Europe.
Detox Tip: Stop searching for a phone signal and seek out protected Artic foxes instead. At the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you can hike mossy hills, bird watch, and take in epic views of the Denmark Strait.
2. Golden Bay, New Zealand
Get a glimpse of limestone formations on the scenic drive over Marble Mountain to the Bay. Once there, try some
adventure activities like kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, or plunge into the Te Waikoropupu Springs.
Detox Tip:
Going solo? Ignore your inbox, and immerse yourself in yoga at the
Anahata Yoga Retreat with world renowned spiritual leaders.
3. The Amazon, Ecuador
The local tribes deliberately isolate themselves from the modern world — and you should, too. Embark on a seven-hour canoe ride from the town of Coca to catch a glimpse of the Amazon’s exotic inhabitants, including nearly
300 different species of mammals and 1,600 types of birds.
Detox Tip: Arrange a stay at the
Kapawi Amazon Lodge to get the lay of the land from the locals. You’ll forget why you ever needed Google Maps in the first place.
4. Molokai, Hawaii
Your detox begins when you spot the airport exit sign that says, “Slow Down, This is Molokai.” Walk along Make Horse or Kawakiu Iki beach to focus on your surroundings and take in the fresh air. The island has spotty cell service, so it’s nearly impossible to fall into the technology trap.
Detox Tip: Hike through the Halawa Valley to connect with the history of the island. Keep an eye out for hidden places of worship, and don’t miss the 250-foot Moa’ula Falls. Not even Instagram can do this natural beauty justice, so leave your phone at home and live in the moment.
5. Butterfly Valley, Turkey
This natural preserve is the perfect place to rough it like a true outdoorsman. Because
Anatolia Tourism Development Cooperative outlaws any permanent buildings in the valley, you can sleep under the stars in tents and bungalows. While there’s nowhere to charge your phone batteries, the great outdoors is the perfect place to recharge your own amongst hippies and backpackers.
Detox Tip: Hoist yourself up with vertical ropes or hike along a cliff-side path to the village of Faralya. Congratulate yourself by grabbing a beer at the makeshift bar, which is best enjoyed on a hammock beside the edge of the cliff.
If your workload stands between you and a digital detox, you can still find ways to temporarily give up the gadgets. Turn your next business trip into a
bleisure trip, and commit to going tech-free for at least an hour a day.