{"id":11270,"date":"2023-08-02T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-02T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.koktailmagazine.com\/?p=11270"},"modified":"2025-02-03T03:25:58","modified_gmt":"2025-02-03T03:25:58","slug":"finland-phone-free-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.koktailmagazine.com\/th\/2023\/08\/02\/finland-phone-free-island\/","title":{"rendered":"Koktail Report: Unplug and Reconnect with Nature\u2014Finland Introduces the World’s First Phone-Free Tourist Island"},"content":{"rendered":"

The phone-free island boasts captivating history, stunning nature, and a bird watching tower<\/h3>\n

In this day and age, who would have thought that there would be a phone-free island? A<\/span>n enchanting location off the coast of Finland is urging tourists to embrace a phone-free experience this summer, aiming to transform into what they proudly claim as the “world’s first phone-free island.”<\/p>\n

When travelling to Ulko-Tammio, an island that forms part of the Eastern Gulf National Park in Finland, tourists will be asked to put away their smartphones and take a break from social media.<\/p>\n

Rather than being glued to screens, visitors are being encouraged to “pause and truly relish the island’s wonders,” as stated by Mats Selin, representing the Visit Kotka-Hamina tourism board responsible for the island. Joel Heino, representing Parks and Wildlife Finland, believes this initiative could be extended to other recreational destinations, promoting a deeper connection with the environment.<\/p>\n

For those feeling hesitant about parting with their devices, it’s important to note that this “digital fasting””is entirely voluntary, as the island maintains a fully functional mobile network.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Courtesy of Annika Ruohonen<\/a> <\/p>\n

Digital Fasting<\/h1>\n

The growing wellness trend called “digital fasting” has been gaining popularity on Twitter as a way to combat mobile addiction. Similar to a digital detox, the concept involves disconnecting from digital devices to dedicate more time to family and friends. Moreover, digital fasting has the potential to reduce anxiety and stress, leaving individuals feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and more productive. <\/p>\n

Today, sharing every holiday moment and constantly scrolling through social media have become common practices for many. However, there are notable advantages in taking breaks from the platforms. <\/p>\n

Terhi Mustonen, a psychologist and Program Manager of the Limitless Gaming and Limitless Social Media programs at the Sosped Foundation, emphasises that being constantly glued to screens is not natural for people. She suggests that even a short digital fast can prove beneficial, improving our well-being and providing relief from symptoms of anxiety and depression.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Courtesy of Annika Ruohonen<\/a> <\/p>\n

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Photo: Courtesy of Annika Ruohonen<\/a> <\/p>\n

Summer holidays offer an excellent opportunity to disconnect from technology and Ulko-Tammio provides the perfect setting. If you’re reading this and already planning a vacation to Finland in your mind, here are a few more details about the island:<\/p>\n