Digital Detox: The New Way to Travel

If you consistently work out your passport, you know there is a difference between traveling and vacationing. But what many jet setters and busy professionals forget about is the value of a detox getaway.

Regardless of their coordinates, certain destinations around the world offer permission to disconnect from the daily grind, clearing away any toxins, emotionally, physically or otherwise. Focusing on vibrant, Mother Earth-made meals, reticent sounds from nature’s wonders and navigating the negativities standing in the way, booking a detox trip is an investment in your happiness and health.

From the Maldives to the California coast, travel experts and writers have trekked the globe to discover these five transformative gems.

Dhigurah Island, Maldives

When you consider the Maldives, you probably daydream about overwater bungalows and sunshine that never leaves the sky. While there are plenty of honeymoon-esque resorts, travel journalist Sarah Harvey suggests a different approach for those in search of a detox. Parallel to the five-star accommodations you will find a gathering of local island communities that adhere to ancient culture and customs, part of which includes bans on pork and alcohol to maintain their religious beliefs.

Harvey says you can lead a healthy routine for a week (or two), as you dine on freshly caught yellowfin tuna from sustainable sources and sip from coconuts cut straight from the tree. Best of all? The views. “Only half of the island has been developed, the other half is lush, virgin tropical foliage to explore on foot or by bicycle — no cars allowed — and the area is known for being a popular whale shark haunt throughout the year,” she adds.

For a place to stay, consider Bliss Dhigurah. Here, as the name suggests, you can peacefully spend your days practicing paddle boarding, snorkeling, taking yoga classes and more.

Hakone, Japan

There are many ideologies in the east that vastly contrast those of the west. Especially in Japan, where cultural norms have been preserved over centuries, detoxing and cleansing is a near-daily habit for many locals. One of the most commonly known and practiced is the ritual of the onsen. This natural hot spring is said to rid of not only physical impurities but mental and emotional stains, too.

According to writer and professor Jessica Langer, travelers hoping to dip their way into a new perspective should consider Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, a short drive from Tokyo. This luxury infinity onsen provides a space of calm and quiet. “Watching the sun rises over the mist-covered mountains, in total silence except for the mountain crickets and the faint rush of the waterfall in the resort’s traditional garden, is a memory my daughter and I will both carry with us forever,” she explains. “It’s become the happy place I retreat to when things get too busy and hectic in our lives.”

Isle of Raasay, Scotland

Just a boat ride away from the northwest coast of Scotland lies the Hebrides, a Scottish archipelago. Often using Gaelic as the native language, this area is rarely visited by tourists, but freelance travel writer Valentina Valentini chooses the Isle of Raasay as a scenic spot to detox.

With little WiFi, you are more likely to be stuck in a traffic jam caused by sheep than pick up a strong signal. This gives busy professionals the permission — and an excuse — to truly unwind, disconnect and relax. “The long walk down to the seaside or up to the mountains brings a literal breath of fresh air that sinks deep into your soul,” Valentini shares.

Stay at the Raasay House, where you can choose from a plethora of activities — from boating to archery and beyond — all of which are an impressive way to settle your spirit and clear your mind.

Big Sur, California

Cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway, soaking up the seaside views with the windows rolled all the way down is a top ten bucket list item. One of the most iconic spots along the way is Instagram-worthy Big Sur, which travel and food influencer Lauren Monitz says is the ultimate place to get off the grid, clear your head and move forward.

“It’s impossible not to be lulled by the crashing waves and the icy blue water and feel at peace along the craggy coast,” she explains. This area in California is unlike its major always-connected metros like San Francisco or Los Angeles, as it features little to no cell service, tucked away in the cliffs. Without distractions, Monitz says many successful artists — from Hunter S. Thompson and Henry Miller to Jack Kerouac and Alanis Morissette — have used it as a place to hide away and source inspiration.

San Marcos, California

Continue down the California coast to an oasis one hour north of San Diego. If you have an ample budget, spending a week at the Golden Door, a resort designed for detoxing your body, mind and spirit, can be a transformative experience. Originally beloved by starlets like Elizabeth Taylor, the Golden Door is considered the destination spa by many celebrities, influencers and socialites. All meals, spa treatments and fitness sessions are included within the weekly multi-thousand-dollar rate. In addition to pristine facilities, travel expert and writer Dr. Cacinda Maloney explains one selling point of the resort is the 30 miles of private hiking trails in a secluded stretch of California.

For those recovering from a traumatic life event, making a major career shift or those who want to deeply invest in their mental health, Maloney recommends this quiet renewal center. “You will experience farm to table meals, personal training services, daily in-room massages, as well as 80 rejuvenating classes for your mind, body, and soul,” she continues. “Between your daily detox and the quiet atmosphere of an Asian retreat complete with a koi pond, the Golden Door will be the most incredible luxury sanctuary you will experience this year.” 

Nosara, Costa Rica

No matter what part of Costa Rica your wanderlust draws you to, there is one rule of venturing through this majestic country: Pura Vida. As the mantra of the nation, it roughly translates to ‘pure life’ or ‘simple life.’ The concept urges travelers to experience every moment of the lush lands, an experience busy New Yorker, traveler and entrepreneur Yasmin Fahr knows all too well. She books her getaway at The Harmony Hotel, featuring countless crabs that scuttle across the walkways, wide beaches and warm water, ideal for swimming or taking surfing lessons. And, you will find yourself flowing your way to a new chapter from the yoga studio that overlooks jungle rooftops.