According to Audley Travel, who used data from Tripadvisor and NationMaster, some of the best destinations for these digital detoxes include Thailand, Italy, Japan, and Australia.
Audley Travel’s research highlights how important it has become to find places that allow individuals to unplug from their devices and immerse themselves in rejuvenating environments.
Thailand
One of the standout destinations from Audley Travel’s findings is Thailand. Known for its rich wellness culture, Thailand was ranked as the top spot for spa and wellness-focused digital detoxes. Often referred to as the “wellness capital of Asia,” it’s no surprise that Thailand takes the lead in this category.
Thailand offers an abundance of luxurious spa retreats, where visitors can experience traditional Thai massages and other holistic treatments. At Six Senses Yao Noi, for example, guests can enjoy herb-infused massages while gazing out over Phang Nga Bay. Another popular option is Six Senses Samui, where visitors can relax in spa rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a bay scattered with rocks.
Italy
Italy emerged as the top destination for those looking to combine an active digital detox with hiking experiences. Audley Travel’s research points to the breathtaking scenery of Italy’s hiking trails, ranging from the Dolomites’ jagged peaks to the rolling hills of Tuscany. These stunning landscapes make Italy a prime location for those who wish to disconnect while staying active.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking for a more leisurely stroll, Italy offers trails that cater to all levels. The combination of nature, history, and culture along these trails adds an extra layer of enrichment to the digital detox experience.
Japan
For those seeking a digital detox that focuses on learning and mindfulness, Japan is the top choice. Audley Travel’s data reveals that Japan ranks highest for its workshops and classes, which offer visitors the chance to engage deeply with the country’s artisanal crafts and traditions.
One of the key advantages of Japan’s workshops is that they offer an immersive experience that naturally encourages participants to put their phones down and focus on the task at hand. For instance, a calligraphy lesson with a local sensei requires participants to fully concentrate on the process of putting ink to paper. Similarly, cooking classes, such as an obanzai session, allow visitors to explore Japan’s culinary heritage while engaging their senses and creativity.
Japan also provides opportunities for deeper spiritual connections. Hakujukan, a lodging linked to Eiheiji Temple in Fukui, offers a tranquil escape from the digital world. Here, guests can participate in Zen Buddhist meditation, enjoy vegetarian cuisine, and take part in morning prayers.
Australia
Australia, with its vast array of national parks, rounds out Audley Travel’s list of the top destinations for digital detoxes. Home to the most national parks in the world, Australia offers unparalleled opportunities for nature lovers to escape from the pressures of digital life. Whether it’s the rainforests of Cape Range National Park or the stunning beaches of Freycinet, Australia’s national parks provide the perfect setting for a digital detox.
Audley Travel points out that the variety of activities available in these parks makes Australia a top destination for those looking to stay away from technology. For instance, in Cape Range National Park, visitors can swim with whale sharks, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that far outweighs the distractions of a smartphone. In Kakadu National Park, travelers can connect with Aboriginal guides to learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.
