"The world is a book, and those who don't travel only read one page."
- Saint Augustine of Hippo
Have you ever experienced the high of being in a place, where apart from you, there is hardly anyone else? When you open your eyes, all you see is nobody? There are many places on this earth where life does not exist in abundance; it exists hidden somewhere, waiting for you to discover it. Think again, and think one more time, before you associate seclusion with romance. Yes, there are many unsullied spots that offer those in love a universe of their own. On the other hand, there are places that are so empty, they help you realize how full of life you are. And while you're traveling through these secluded destinations, amidst all the emptiness and nothingness, there is a great chance that you will find yourself. So, are you ready to get lost?
Looks Too Difficult? Check this out!
Erik Weihenmayer of the United States of America has climbed the highest mountains on each continent. Yes, including Mount Everest! He has thus, conquered the Seven Summits successfully. What's more? He's blind! Yes, you read it right.
Are you geared up now to embark on a journey through the roads less traveled?
Top 10 Secluded Destinations that Help You Fall Off the Map
1. Deception Island, Antarctica
Formed as the crater of a volcano, one of the farthest points on the globe, an abandoned whaling station, Deception Island ironically has a name it doesn't deserve. Why? Because it's one of the safest harbors on the continent. Administered by the Antarctic Treaty System, this island is now home to researchers and occasional travelers.
2. Private Islands in the Maldives
The Maldives are the original desert islands. I'm sure you've heard this often, but have you seen it from the eyes of a traveler and not a vacationist? White sand, a few trees, an endless canvas of the sea and sky, and in the center of all this, you, with your beloved. Seems like a dream come true? It sure does.
3. Bentota, Sri Lanka
Looking for a place that is not all that secluded? Want some alone time amidst a little company to help you feel safe? Bentota is the place! A small town by the Indian Ocean, this is a holiday you would want to take alone, sans the family and the romantic interest. Indulge in Ayurvedic healing, experience the rush of water sports, and at the end of it all, sit back and relax, taking in all the beauty this haven has to offer.
4. Lake Manasarovar, Tibet
If ever there is a perfect depiction of purity, it is this. The Holy Lake of Manasarovar, with the Kailas Range in the backdrop, amidst which stands tall the Kailash Parbat, is natural beauty redefined. Reaching this haven isn't easy though. It requires three days to just complete the circumference, and living here, is synonymous with tents. You also need to be physically fit to endure the harsh surroundings.
5. Easter Island
With a population of less than 5,000, and land that is mostly protected by the Rapa Nui National Park, this island is perfect for the explorer. Nearly 900 statues, known as the Moais, decorate this island in a peculiar way. In an area where there is scarcity of land, this island becomes home to diverse culture and interesting tradition. Explore all this in your holiday, and go home with the satisfaction of knowing a little of the unknown.
6. Monasteries of Ladakh, India
Cities can be scarcely populated and towns can be abandoned. But, can an entire region look as though everyone suddenly just vanished? The several monasteries in Ladakh and the monks that reside in them, perhaps make for the largest groups of people here. Environmental challenges have resulted in low population, and what usually meets the eye is a ruin here and there. Some of the most beautiful monasteries here include the Hemis Monastery and Shey Monastery.
7. Upolu Island, Samoa
The country or this island specifically, isn't secluded. However, in between all the rush and the scattered inhabitants, are places that offer heavenly peace and quiet. Silence usually offers fear and calm; this place offers only the latter. Lush green valleys, waterfalls, and a silence that is so welcoming, you wouldn't want to leave. Now, traveling to Samoa is an expensive affair, so plan this one well.
8. Antarctica
Deception Island was off the mainland of Antarctica. We now come to the mainland. Two weeks or less of being in no-man's land is an experience in itself. The driest continent on Earth will definitely enchant you; the spellbinding beauty will leave you mesmerized for a lifetime. Tourists travel in summer mostly by ship or yacht. You won't be allowed to stay on land; ships are permanent base in these vacations. However, you will be allowed to
wander daily at selected locations. It is this wandering in a place where very few humans have left their footprints is what you should look forward to.
9. Mongolia
What was once one of the largest empires in the world, is today a land of unique diversity. The country is relatively unexplored, attracts relatively less travelers, and most landscapes and natural attractions remain untouched. Nomadic life is still widely existent and so are trades relating to it. Lakes, mountains, and the Gobi desert are just a few jewels in this country's crown, which itself is a crown on the surrounding landscape. Going here will be going back in time. It is truly called
The Land of Blue Sky.
10. Falkland Islands
With a population of just around 3,000, everywhere you go on these islands, you are bound to find seclusion. However, the key to find some alone time is avoiding cliché. Forget the East Falkland and West Falkland islands. Instead, pick one of the outer islands as your destination. Some of these include Bleaker Island, Carcass Island, Pebble Island, and Sea Lion Island. A tranquil environment, clean surroundings, and a feeling of being
out of the world - these islands truly offer all of this.
We must admit that these top 10 secluded destinations are all stunners in their own way. The expense of travel to these will depend on your location on the globe and your mode of transport. But as they say, some things in the world are free. That's just what these places offer - tranquil seclusion that money can't buy.
