3 wonderful holiday destinations for a complete digital detox

Advances in technology and changes in workplace culture – such as the rise of remote working following the Covid pandemic – have opened more flexible working options for many people.

While you might be glad of the opportunity to take your kids to school, fit in a lunchtime run, and work in your pyjamas, there can be downsides to this shift in working patterns.

Read on to find out why switching off every now and then is so important and discover three wonderful holiday destinations for a digital detox.

Being constantly connected could lead to burnout

For many people, the line between professional and home lives has been blurred – raise your hand if you’ve ever replied to a work email at the family dinner table or joined a Zoom meeting while you’re on leave.

What’s more, passionate business owners may be especially vulnerable to this state of constant connection to the office. In fact, a 2024 study by holiday provider TUI, published by TravMedia found that 97% of business owners continued working while on holiday.

Unfortunately, this “downtime deficit” could harm your wellbeing and zap your energy, making it harder for you to excel at work.

Research by Simply Business has revealed that 56% of small business owners have experienced poor mental health over the past 12 months with 73% admitting to taking fewer than 20 days annual leave a year – eight days less than the national entitlement.

It’s perhaps not surprising that 33% also opened up about experiencing burnout.

A digital detox could boost your wellbeing and your professional performance

Taking a complete break from digital devices and social media could give your mind and body a much-needed break. Imagine what you could do for your business when you return bursting with energy, ideas, and enthusiasm!

Here are just a few potential benefits of a digital detox.

• Improved sleep
• A fresh perspective
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Enhanced focus, clarity, and productivity
• Better mental and physical health.

Okay, so we’ve persuaded you that a break is in order. But where to go…? We got you.

3 top digital detox destinations around the world

Whether you’re seeking extravagance and luxury, far flung adventures or a local weekend break, we’re confident that one of these digital detox destinations will grab your attention.

1. Tierra Patagonia in Chile

This luxurious all-inclusive retreat sits within the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia – a UNESCO biosphere reserve – overlooking Lake Sarmiento.

Mobile phone signal is non-existent and there are no TVs or Wi-Fi in communal areas. You couldn’t get much more remote and digitally unconnected than this (although… keep reading).

If you can tear yourself away from the panoramic views of the lake and majestic peaks that surround the hotel, there are plenty of adventures to be had. From glacier hikes and horseback rides to catch-and-cook fly fishing, Tierra Patagonia is a dream for any outdoor enthusiast.

Or make the most of the resort’s Uma Spa, which includes a heated indoor infinity pool, steam room, relaxation spaces, and more.

Luxury, relaxation and outdoor adventures. Tierra Patagonia has it all – but only between November and May. The weather is too punishing for guests during the winter months when the retreat closes.

2. National Trust off-grid properties in the UK

If you’re short on time and looking for a digital detox closer to home, the National Trust’s off-grid properties could be a great choice.

Every one of these secluded cottages has been hand-picked for its historic significance and unique location.

While each property offers comfort and character there are no TVs and no internet or phone signal to distract you. There’s a good chance you’ll be far from other people too, so you can truly switch off.

Choose from:

• Bird How in Cumbria – A dolls-house like cottage hidden in the Eskdale Valley
• Longstone Cottage on the Isle of White – a spacious period property
• Foel Gopyn in Wales – A completely off-grid property amid sheep-filled fields
• Hafod y Fedw – A remote cottage with a stream-fed water supply and solar energy.

Or schedule in regular digital detoxes and work your way through them all!

3. Mumbo Island in Malawi

Internet connection in Malawi is limited to a handful of hotels. So, pretty much anywhere you choose to go in this beautiful country will offer an opportunity to switch off from tech and reconnect with yourself.

But, if you want to take it up a notch and REALLY get away from it all, head to Mumbo Island. The only way to reach this idyllic spot is to kayak for an hour across Lake Malawi, making it one of the most off-the-grid locations you’ll ever visit.

However, don’t expect luxury; this is more of a back-to-basics holiday. Accommodation is either in rustic reed chalets or tents with eco-loos and hot bucket showers.

You might just be lucky enough to tap into the limited Wi-Fi and mobile signal, but with crystal clear waters and the beautiful Miombo forest to explore, why would you want to? Instead, you might like to try your hand at kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and hiking.

Get in touch

If you’re looking for better work-life balance, Melo can offer the help you need at every stage of the business cycle – whether you’re struggling to recruit top talent or need a fresh perspective on how to grow your firm.

To find out more, drop us an email at hello@melo.co.uk or call us on 0113 4656 111.