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Go Way Off-Grid at Three of the World’s Most Remote Destinations

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Alaska, Easter Island, and Fiji are far enough removed for most travelers seeking a “digital detox.” But, there are other places on earth that are so remote and beautiful, they hardly seem real. For those seeking the ultimate in solitude, here are three destinations to add to your bucket list.

Lake Baikal (Russia)

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In the middle of Siberia (itself a remarkably remote destination) near the Mongolian border, lies Lake Baikal. The surrounding area is breathtakingly beautiful — replete with pristine rivers, forests, and snow-capped mountains — and a home to over 2,100 animal and plant species. The lake itself holds a number of records. With approximately 20 percent of Earth’s entire fresh water supply (more than all of the Great Lakes combined), it’s the largest freshwater lake in the world. It’s also the clearest and, dating back more than 25 million years old, the oldest. It feels all but impossible to get to. But, once there, you’ll have no problem carving out a slice of natural heaven all to yourself.

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How to get there: The only viable points of transport to/from Baikal are through Slyudyanka, Irkutsk, and Ulan-Ude. Most travelers plan a visit as part of a diversion from their Trans-Siberian Railroad journey.

Deception Island (Antarctica)

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With a steady stream of cruise ships to Antarctica these days, it feels a little less “off the beaten path.” But, much of the continent and many of the islands that surround it remain largely untrammeled by humans. Located in the South Shetland archipelago, Deception Island is one such island. It’s a place of both beauty and decay with a curious and sordid past. In the early 20th century, it served as a processing station for whales and whale oil. Today, the island is littered with rotting wooden ships and rusted tanks and boilers. It’s also home to Antarctica’s oldest cemetery where 45 whalers were laid to rest. Because the island is a caldera (and an active volcano), its unique shape provides an ideal place for boats to hold up in a storm. This also makes it the best place for Antarctic travelers to take their requisite “polar plunge,” even if the water isn’t quite as warm as most tour providers promise.

How to get there: For most folks, the only way to realistically visit Deception Island is as part of an adventurous Antarctic cruise.

Svalbard Islands (Norway)

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Half-way between Europe and the Arctic Circle lie the Svalbard Islands. With less than 3,000 people, the archipelago feels well off the beaten path. But, this tiny Norwegian destination has become a hotspot for adventure travelers in recent years. It now rivals Churchill, Manitoba as the unofficial “polar bear capital of the world,” and thousands of visitors cruise here annually for the chance to spot them. Wildlife aside, it’s a place of pristine geological beauty — beautiful waters, crystal clear skies, and dramatic rocky outcroppings. Coupled with its extreme northern location, it’s among the world’s best destinations to witness the Northern Lights. Not surprisingly, it also serves as the last point of departure for many travelers heading from Europe onward to the North Pole. And, fun fact: Svalbard is also home to the world’s most northern city and humanity’s ultimate emergency stash: the Global Seed Vault

How to get there: Hurtigruten is the go-to cruise provider for travelers looking to get to Svalbard.

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
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I’ll never forget my first solo trip. I couldn’t help but wonder, would I get lonely? Would I feel safe? But as soon as I stepped out into the world on my own, I realized how freeing solo travel could be. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, embrace spontaneity, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences. That said, traveling by yourself also comes with its challenges. There’s a learning curve, but it’s worth it. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are the solo travel tips I wish someone had shared with me before I packed my bags.
Solo travel tips

Solo travel doesn't have to be a daunting prospect, just follow this advice to make your trip the best it can be.
Research your destination thoroughly
Before you set off, do your homework. Dive into the culture, customs, and quirks of your destination. Learn phrases in the local language like "hello," "thank you," and "help" – mastering the local slang might just earn you a few smiles! You should also check travel advisories and scour reviews from other travelers. You’ll want to know which areas are safe, the best ways to get around, and if you’re traveling internationally, where your country’s embassy is (just in case).
Plan, but not too much
Have a bucket list of fun experiences you want to do? Great – but don’t pack your schedule tighter than your suitcase. Leave space for the unexpected, like a random street fair, a hidden cafe, or a spontaneous invite to explore a local spot. Flexibility can be where the magic happens in solo travel.
Pack light and smart
When packing, stick to versatile clothing, bring only the essentials, and use packing cubes to keep things organized. And don’t forget the essentials – a power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, and digital and physical copies of your important documents.
Stay connected
Before you go, ensure you have a reliable way to stay connected. This might mean purchasing a local SIM card, renting a portable Wi-Fi device, or arranging for an international data plan. Staying connected helps you navigate unfamiliar areas, keep in touch with loved ones, and access important information on the go. Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and currency converters can be lifesavers during your travels. Don’t forget to download offline maps and guides in case you lose internet access.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust
While solo travel is about independence, it’s always smart to let someone know your plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information with someone you trust. A quick “I’m safe and having a blast!” text can ease your loved ones’ nerves. Apps like Find My or WhatsApp location sharing can add an extra layer of safety.
Choose accommodations wisely
Your accommodation can make or break your trip. Look for highly rated places (especially those recommended by other solo travelers). Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for meeting people, while private Airbnb spots can offer quiet comfort.
Own the solo dining experience 
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Stay safe
If you’re going to listen to one of these solo travel tips, pick this one! Safety should always be a top priority when you're on your own. Keep your head on a swivel, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it might just be. Consider keeping a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag and storing emergency cash in multiple locations. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for local emergency services saved on your phone.
Make friends (but set boundaries)
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