Traveling off the grid

It’s not easy to leave our work and our gadgets behind. In fact, it is only getting harder and harder these days to disconnect with the outside world, even when on vacation. In a way, you could call us addicted. Allow yourself to get away from it all, and detach from your devices. Choose to travel off the grid. This will help you to reconnect with yourself, as well as with the local culture. Moreover, it is beneficial for your well-being and happiness. No wonder this way of traveling gained popularity during the past couple of years. No worries about electricity, cell phone credit, missed calls or traffic jams. No rush, just being here, now, is enough.

Off-the-grid officially refers to a lifestyle in which people function without any help of remote infrastructure. This includes electricity, water, gas and the sewage. Off-the-gridders succeed in living life on a self-sufficient way. A true off-grid house is able to operate completely independently of all traditional public utility services. They only use stand-alone power systems. Disconnecting from the chaos of our modern world can be the perfect remedy for the stress of everyday life. Getting off the internet equals reconnecting with yourself and the offline world you live in. How does that sound?

Are you ready to travel the old-school-style? Without the screens, gadgets and multitasking stress. Don’t bring chargers, adapters, portable wifi connections or cables. Easier said than done? Just give it a try and you might be amazed. A pen, paper, a book, a polaroid camera; that’s all you really need to record your memories. Forget the digital likes or selfie sticks. Consider some of the possibilities below and change the way you travel for the better:

– Use paper maps instead of Google Maps

– Bring real books, instead of e-books

– Send post-cards or letters, instead of instant messaging

– Listen to real, live music, instead of to your iPod

– Talk to locals, instead of checking Facebook

In case you crave for some disconnection, but you’re afraid you won’t be able to resist the temptations that electricity and wifi have to offer, check in at an off-the-grid accommodation. Relaxation guaranteed! There are plenty of mind-blowing off-grid places to visit, but the three options listed below are definitely worth checking out.

Three Camel Lodge, Gobi Desert, Mongolia
From this eco-lodge located in the heart of the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, it’s 300 miles to the nearest Wi-Fi spot. Enjoy all that nature has to offer you. The hills, the desert, the mountains and the springs. You will stay in a lattice-wood tent, which is traditionally used by nomadic shepherds.

Whitepod, Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Before you start building your own brand-new off-grid house, just test drive a Whitepod in the Swiss Alps. Surprisingly, this accommodation is comfortable in all seasons. This amazing tented pod is heated by a wood-pellet stove. The showers and baths available are also heated by this stove.

Emerald Lake Lodge, Yoho National Park, Canada

Are you a big fan of hiking, mountain biking, fishing and rowing? Visit this lodge and fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery nature here has to offer you. It will make you forget your smartphone instantly. The lack of cell reception will speed up this process even more. Each room has a balcony and fireplace.

Of course, it’s not necessary to live off-the grid 24/7, but really taking a break from everything during your vacation can be a good way to relax, recharge, and reconnect. Are you ready to go off the grid?