In today’s world, it’s tough to put your phone down for a couple hours, or commit to not checking email when you leave the office. Technology offers us the incredible opportunity to connect with each other and huge amounts of information. If you find yourself in need of a digital world escape, it can be hard to figure out how to disconnect in a meaningful way. For many, off the grid travel, when you leave the gadgets at home (or at least powered off), is a incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating way to see the world and disconnect from technology, if only for a short while. This post shares a couple of the greatest places to go when you feel ready to push off that power button.
Image source: Wikipedia
Digital World Escape #1: For the traveling couple
Off the coast of mainland British Columbia sits Cortes Island, home to Hollyhock, a center for learning, reflection and growth. Like much of the rest of BC, it’s tucked between ocean and forest, providing an idyllic setting for those who want to escape. The 2 massages and bottle of wine placed in your room upon arrival, both included in the basic package, are just two of the ways Hollyhock welcomes guests. With plenty of different activities, ranging from morning yoga to kayaking in bioluminescent waters, a 24 hour bar with fruit, bread and hot drinks and all meals provided on-site, Hollyhock is the perfect place to reconnect with a loved one.
Image source: Wikipedia
Digital World Escape #2: For the all-weather traveller
If you’re into snow, head north to Alaska’s Ultima Thule Lodge, a tiny adventure camp run by the Claus family (no, they don’t wear red and white). You may have to rely on technology to get there (two flights away from Anchorage, and one is a tiny bush plane), but once you’re there you can enjoy yourself tech-free – with only 8 cabins, you don’t need Google Maps to get around (plus there’s no cell service anyways). While you’re there ski the slopes, enjoy Alaskan salmon under the northern lights, take advantage of the sauna and spa and (if it’s warm enough) enjoy a whitewater rafting adventure. Keep your eyes open for grizzly bears, mountain goats, bison, foxes and the many species of birds that call Alaska home.
Image source: Wikipedia
Digital World Escape #3: For the devoted yogi
Committed to yoga, meditation and focusing on spirituality? Visit Thailand’s Samahita Retreat, a rainwater harvesting, solar power run coastal oasis. In addition to Vinyasa yoga classes overlooking the garden, beach and pool, you’ll have the opportunity to add on a Detox or Wellness package, which will provide you with the option to focus on de-stressing and massage therapy, among other options. They also offer yoga teacher training, for those who are looking for a more intense, long-term visit. There are all-vegan meals, an all-natural snack and juice bar and, should you choose to use it, wifi. Samahita is all about Classical Yoga, and offers guests a way to relax and improve the entire body and mind through yoga, meditation and healthy food options.
If you want to power down your laptop and reconnect with yourself, others or the world around you, Gaba Travels is happy to help you find the perfect digital world escape. Have you gone off the grid? Share your story in the comments section.
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