Go Off-Grid and Get Unplugged!
Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera
Let peace and quiet fill your mind as you take off to some of the world’s most remote destinations. Away from bustling tourism, as well as busy and crowded attractions, disconnect and give yourself that much needed digital detox.
Lesotho
This tiny South African mountain kingdom is home to the Basotho people, who live in traditional stone and thatched huts. Located at a staggering 2,161 metres above sea level, Lesotho – referred to as the ‘kingdom in the sky’ – is one of the highest countries in the world. Its remoteness and uniqueness make it a great place to explore.
Côn Sơn
The largest island of the Côn Đảo archipelago off Vietnam is coral fringed Côn Sơn. This remote volcanic island offers you a chance to get away from the rest of the world. Untouched forests, deserted beaches and secluded lakes will draw you into its wild, natural embrace.
Nagaland
India’s final frontier to the east is landlocked Nagaland, which is a tribal adventure waiting to happen. It is ringed by misty mountain ranges and dotted with tribal villages that still preserve their precolonial traditions. Once known to be home to headhunting tribes, the villagers are now open to homestays and warmly welcome the occasional tourist who comes along.
Shikoku
The smallest of Japan’s four major islands – and strangely, the least visited! However, Shikoku has much to offer despite its size. The Awa Odori, which is a dance festival held during the Obon season in mid-August, is the island’s most popular attraction. And if you are a fan of hot springs, visit Shikoku to detox your mind and body.
Kangchenjunga
The border region between Nepal and India is home to the third highest mountain on Earth, which stands 8,586 metres high where its snow-covered peaks rise amid glacial gardens. An off-grid trekking experience that’s fuelled by hot meals from remote villages, it’s simply out of this world. Kangchenjunga is rarely visited by outsiders and often passed over for the greater mountain experience of Everest.
Tubagua
Thatched jungle cabins and community tourism beyond the beaches are what this rustic and remote village in the Dominican Republic have to offer. It is home to the Ecolodge Tubagua Puerto Plata – one of the Caribbean’s best eco-lodges – and remote travel doesn’t get any better than this as you absorb the nuances of authentic Dominican life.
Hyères
W ho would have thought that modern France would have a remote and off-grid destination to offer visitors? Hyères is a commune on the Mediterranean coast, far away from all that French glitz and glamour. Its medieval castles and ancient ruins take you back to that European nation’s long history as the narrow roads of this old town display local heritage.