As much as we hate to admit it, we’re all guilty of mindlessly picking up our phones to scroll through Facebook and Instagram every few minutes. Or perhaps you’re trapped in a desk-bound job, glued to the computer screen for hours on end. Either way, it’s time to ditch the phones and laptops for awhile – don’t let yourself be at the whim of technology, deadlines and social media updates can wait. These secluded retreats in South East Asia are ideal for a technology-free recharge.
1. Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Fringed with five-star resorts and beaches boasting pristine white sand, this relatively unknown Vietnamese island in the Gulf of Thailand makes for a peaceful, tropical destination. Tourists can engage in water sports like snorkelling and diving and explore the natural beauty of the untouched forests and secluded beaches – this is essentially Phuket, sans crowds and hiked up prices.
2. Samahita Retreat, Thailand
This secluded lifestyle retreat centre in Koh Samui is a haven of peace and tranquillity – think wellness spas, detox programs, yoga classes and healthful buffet spreads. Samahita’s signature package, the YogaCoreCycle, is an all-inclusive yoga and fitness holiday option that includes accommodation, food, yoga, fitness-core, spa and meditation. You will leave this place feeling more zen than ever before.
3. Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar
Far off the tourist trail, this undiscovered archipelago at the south-eastern tip of Myanmar is a hidden destination for a digital detox. With over 800 tropical islands sporting calm blue waters, picturesque sunsets and unspoilt beaches, this is where you can spend a week in total solitude – island hopping, snorkelling and falling asleep to the subtle sound of waves crashing the shore.
4. Pai, Thailand
Far up northern Thailand lies an artistic mountain valley town of Pai, a backpacker mecca popular for its chill and relaxed atmosphere. Don’t expect to plan a detailed itinerary; here you will find joy in doing literally nothing apart from occasionally lapping up the café culture vibe when brunch hour beckons or embarking on nature walks at sunset. Hot springs, waterfalls and caves are only a short walk away from the main town.
5. Time Capsule Retreat, Malaysia
Easily accessibly via a coach bus from Singapore, this homey, family-run retreat in Kuantan offers capsule rooms in a lush forest setting – 7ft x 10ft concrete pipe cylinders fitted with a queen size bed and air conditioning. Embark on a relaxed hike to Panorama Hill and Rainbow Waterfall, and return by sunset for an outdoor barbecue under the stars.
6. Mui Ne Sand Dunes, Vietnam
It’s hard to believe that these majestic sand dunes are near Saigon – this hidden gem in Vietnam will have you frolicking in soft sand that stretches beyond the horizon. The Red Sand Dunes is just 20 minutes away from the town centre of Mui Ne, while The While Sand Dunes is slightly further – an hour’s drive away from the centre. Besides biking and sliding down these sand mountains, take time out to trudge through the ankle-deep Fairy Stream filled with opaque red waters too. Now you don’t need to travel across the world for a desert experience.
7. Kep, Cambodia
Nestled about halfway along Cambodia’s cost, this seaside village is a sweet spot in Cambodia. Here you will be surround by friendly local inhabitants, fresh crabs and an abundance of French villas. Activities include beach hopping, cave exploring and jungle trekking.
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