Fed up with modern life’s quirks, such as commuter trains, endless email chains, and pollution? If so, you might find solace in knowing there are remote corners of the world where life moves at a much slower pace. Among these hidden gems is a place so secluded that reaching it requires a six-day ship journey across the open ocean. Welcome to Tristan da Cunha—a remote British Overseas Territory that offers unparalleled tranquility.
Where is Tristan da Cunha?
Nestled in the South Atlantic Ocean, Tristan da Cunha is part of the archipelago of Saint Helena, Ascension. Despite its British postcode, this tiny volcanic island is no quick hop from the UK. It lies approximately 2,810 kilometers (1,750 miles) from Cape Town, South Africa, making it one of the most remote populated islands on Earth. Its closest neighbor? A fittingly named place called Inaccessible Island, surrounded by nothing but endless sea.
The Journey to Tristan da Cunha
Getting to Tristan da Cunha is an adventure in itself. From the UK, travelers must first endure an 11-hour, 35-minute flight to Cape Town. But the journey doesn’t end there. Since the island has no airport, visitors must board a ship for the remainder of the trip. The six-day voyage across the South Atlantic is entirely weather-dependent, making the journey as unpredictable as it is unforgettable.
Life on the Island
Tristan da Cunha’s population hovers around 238 residents, a number that fluctuates with the comings and goings of tourists and temporary workers. The island’s community is deeply rooted in its history, with residents tracing their ancestry back to the island’s early settlers. Sharing the island with them are a variety of unique wildlife species, including rare birds, rockhopper penguins, and blue sharks.
Read More: Canouan: The Caribbean Island You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
A Safe Haven
Safety is a defining feature of life on Tristan da Cunha. Residents live without fear of crime, as one local proudly told the BBC in 2016: “You can let the children go anywhere, I mean anywhere. We don’t bolt the door or lock the door, we leave our windows open, we leave our doors open. There’s no locks at all.” This sense of security underscores the simplicity and trust that defines life on the island.
Can You Relocate to Tristan da Cunha?
Dreaming of moving there? The reality is a bit more complicated. Immigration is restricted unless you have a family connection to the island. According to the official website, purchasing real estate or property is also prohibited, and job opportunities are limited.
Why Visit Tristan da Cunha?
For those seeking an off-the-grid adventure, the island provides an experience unlike any other. Its remoteness, coupled with its unique culture and pristine environment, makes it a bucket-list destination for intrepid travelers. Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the sense of community, or the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world, this island offers a rare chance to escape and reset.
So, if you’re yearning for peace and quiet in a world that never seems to stop, consider making the journey to Tristan da Cunha. Just remember to pack your patience—and perhaps a good book—for the six-day voyage that lies ahead.
Read More: 16 of the World’s Most Underrated Islands You Should Add to Your Bucketlist Right Now
