Interested in a digital detox? One Finnish island aims to become the world’s premier phone-free tourist destination.
Each summer, countless social media users flood their feeds with vacation snapshots. However, if you’re weary of crafting the perfect Instagram-worthy holiday or seeking respite from pesky work emails while away from the office, Ulko-Tammio is the idyllic getaway for you.
Nestled in the eastern Gulf of Finland, this diminutive island proudly proclaims itself a smartphone-free sanctuary.
Mats Selin, the head of tourism at Visit Kotka-Hamina, declares, “This summer, Ulko-Tammio Island, situated off the coast of Hamina, will be designated a phone-free enclave.”
“We aim to encourage tourists to power down their smart devices and fully immerse themselves in the island’s natural charms,” he continues.
Travelers will be kindly asked to stow away their smart gadgets and unplug from social media, though the island retains functional mobile network coverage.
So, what can you indulge in on Ulko-Tammio?
Part of the Eastern Gulf National Park, Ulko-Tammio is an uninhabited paradise where visitors can spend the night in tents or cozy cabins.
These fresh guidelines, though voluntary, offer visitors a chance to “reconnect with nature,” as stated by Joel Heino, the Finnish Environment Representative.
“This is a commendable initiative that could potentially be adopted in other pristine destinations,” he adds.
Once you’ve set aside your phone, there’s plenty to engage in:
– Meandering hiking trails that trace the rocky shoreline
– Ascending bird-watching towers for glimpses of the island’s diverse wildlife
You can access Ulko-Tammio via a private boat or opt for sea cruises organized by MeriSet. Alternatively, tourists can catch a water taxi from Varissaari, a historical fortress located on the island, available for hire at Vaakku, a local restaurant.
Why choose a digital detox?
In today’s world, smartphones and computers dominate our daily routines. On average, European adults dedicate six hours each day to their screens. Yet, forgoing the swiping, clicking, and typing can yield remarkable benefits for mental well-being.
A study from 2022 discovered that individuals who took a week-long hiatus from social media reported “significant improvements” in their overall well-being and sleep quality.
Furthermore, a digital detox can aid in restoring your attention span. The constant bombardment of digital stimuli can erode our capacity to focus deeply and concentrate.
A 2019 study from the University of East Anglia found that a “digital detox” event fosters feelings of connection and presence among participants.
