5 Soul-Stirring Escapes

Aminah Carty on 28 May 2025
Sometimes, the most transformative trips happen far from the tourist trail. If you’re craving space to breathe, reconnect, and explore landscapes that feel almost untouched — these five destinations deliver exactly that.

Each one is handpicked for its beauty, remoteness, and potential for those once-in-a-lifetime travel moments you’ll talk about forever.

1. The Azores, Portugal Wild Atlantic beauty with geothermal magic

This volcanic island group is Portugal’s lush green secret, full of crater lakes, hot springs, dramatic coastlines, and tiny villages tucked into the hills. Perfect for gentle hiking, whale watching, and natural spa days. It feels a million miles from anywhere — but it’s closer than you’d think.

Best for: Nature lovers, solo travellers, slow travel fans Hidden gem: A lakeside picnic at Lagoa do Fogo after a morning in the hot springs of Furnas

2. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina End-of-the-Earth wilderness at its wildest

Few places feel as remote as Patagonia. With wind-swept mountains, glaciers you can walk on, and trails where you may not see another soul for hours, this is the ultimate off-grid adventure. Add in boutique eco-lodges and delicious local wine? Heaven.

Best for: Hikers, couples, and adventurers who want solitude with soul Hidden gem: A sunrise horseback ride with gauchos in El Chaltén

3. The Namib Desert, Namibia Burnt orange dunes and out-of-this-world stillness

Namibia’s Namib Desert is an ancient, otherworldly landscape of shifting sand dunes, ghost towns, and wildlife that’s adapted to the harshest conditions. Expect dreamlike sunsets, off-road adventures, and stargazing you’ll never forget.

Best for: Photographers, luxury safari lovers, and desert dreamers Hidden gem: Climb “Big Daddy” dune at sunrise, then explore the eerie white clay pan of Deadvlei

4. Bawah Reserve, Indonesia Six islands. No roads. Endless peace.

Accessible only by seaplane from Singapore, Bawah is a private marine reserve made up of turquoise lagoons, jungle-covered islets, and barefoot luxury. No traffic, no crowds — just crystal water, paddleboarding, snorkelling, and total serenity.

Best for: Honeymoons, digital detoxes, luxury off-grid breaks Hidden gem: Enjoy a private picnic on a sandbank with no one else in sight

5. The Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica Rainforest, reef, and wildlife galore

Often overshadowed by other parts of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth — and blissfully off the beaten path. Imagine waking to howler monkeys, spotting humpbacks off the coast, and zip-lining through untouched jungle.

Best for: Eco-travellers, families, and adventurers Hidden gem: Stay in a treehouse lodge and watch scarlet macaws fly past your breakfast table

Ready to plan something rare, remote, and truly unforgettable? I’ll curate your entire journey — flights, transfers, unique stays, and all the in-between moments that make it special. Flexible payment options, family-friendly planning, and printed docs available for the tech-shy.

Let’s chat about your dream escape