It’s difficult enough to wrangle vacation time, especially when you almost max out your credit card on airfare, and jet off for a little R&R.
And then you arrive at your own little paradise only to discover that your regular weekday frenetic life has mysteriously come along with you.
Thanks to cell phones, smart phones, Wi-Fi, broadband, and other technologies we seem to be inescapably tethered to the real world. And not surprisingly it can often feel as if we never left home.
But if you’re looking for a place to escape from the high-tech world of connectivity, then check out these destinations designed for the traveler who really—literally—wants to unplug.
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Tiamo Resorts, Bahamas
Located on the South Andros Island in the Bahamas, this eco-friendly resort consists of 11 private bungalows nestled in 125 acres of naturally preserved wilderness. Founded on the principles of sustainable tourism by Mike and Petagay Hartman, Tiamo integrates indigenous vegetation and natural cooling resources, relies entirely on alternative energy, and uses locally grown produce. There is no TV or Internet access, and you can forget about bringing a cell phone because you won’t find a signal.
Instead, you can spend your time snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, fishing, hiking, or just lying back in a hammock on the white-sand beaches. Best of all, these activities are all inclusive: All meals, island transportation, light-adventure activities and biologist-guided tours are included during your stay. Room rates start at $315 per night. 242-471-8087, www.tiamoresorts.com
Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia
A back-country inn located one hour north of Atlanta, Georgia in Dawsonville, the Len Foote Hike Inn truly lives up to its claim of being an escape into nature. This rustic facility surrounded by the wilderness of Amicalola Falls State Park is so far off the grid that you actually have to hike five miles to get there. Once get there, you’ll learn that staying connected is not really an option: Guests are asked not to bring cell phones, pagers, laptops, or other electronic devices. After all, the point is to retreat from the outside.
There are, of course, ample hiking and biking trails, plus guided nature walks, birding classes, and … worm composting seminars (seriously). In 2004, the Hike Inn earned a LEED gold award for an existing building—an impressive feat considering it was built in 1998—and guides will happily take you on a tour to showcase the green initiatives that helped them earn the prestigious award. Bunk-bed room rates range from $70 to $97 for a family of four. 800-581-8032, www.hike-inn.com
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, Panama
This affordable destination is most definitely off the beaten path … in order to reach the lodge, you have to fly in from Panama City to the Islands of Bocas del Toro and then take a 15-minute boat ride. Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge consists of nine cabins set (literally) over the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
What is an aqua-lodge exactly? Each cabin sits on stilts, over the water on the mile-long, coral-reefed coast. Complete with palm-leaf roofs, the cabins offer Colonial-style beds and hot water showers in private bathrooms. Don’t bother bringing a laptop or even a hair dryer because the cabins work on only 12-volt solar panel systems. Leave your cell phone at home and enjoy the many activities offered instead. You can visit some of the most isolated beaches located in the different islands of the Archipelago, snorkel at the coral reefs, take boat rides through the Island visiting Indian communities, hike in the rainforest, kayak, scuba dive, or visit Bocas town for some souvenir shopping. Room rates start at $374, double occupancy. 00507-757-9410, www.puntacaracol.com
Gorda Springs Resort, California
This resort is located in the small coastal town of Gorda Springs off Highway 1 about 30 minutes north of Hearst Castle in California. This is a place to relax and retreat from the high-tech world. There are no phones, TVs, Internet, or cell phone reception. (A pay phone is available on the grounds.)
Once enjoyed by the Costanoan and Esalen Indian tribes for its natural spring waters, Gorda Springs now offers a prime backdrop for artists, photographers and nature lovers alike. The deep waters, steep cliffs and rocks provide a sanctuary for elephant seals and birds and the vistas are a perfect place to watch the annual migration of whales. You can also enjoy the nearby hiking trails, fishing coves, and surfing or experience the small town atmosphere by eating at the local Whale Watcher Café and visiting the Pacific Market and Gift Shop. Room rates range from $175-$325. 805-927-3918, www.gordasprings.com
Hanalei Colony Resort
Hawaii is known for its postcard-perfect beaches and landscapes … and hordes of tourists. For a more secluded and private experience away from the crowds, check out the Hanalei Colony Resort on the North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii. The accommodations at the resort do not include TVs, stereos, or phones, so there’s nothing to distract you from enjoying all that Kauai has to offer. The resort does have a pay phone and there is Internet access available on two guest computers in the Makana Room, but the resort prefers that their guests avoid the temptation.
Outdoor adventures include hiking the wilderness of the Na Pali Coast, scuba diving or snorkeling through miles of lava tubes, or simply golfing on Kauai’s golf course just 15 minutes away. The resort also offers a spa with massages given either in the spa or on the beach, and individual or group yoga classes. Room rates start at $250 a night. 800-628-3004, www.hcr.com
By Jilda Kouroumlian for PeterGreenberg.com.
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