Finnish island wants tourists to stop using their phones

Tourism officials on Ulko-Tammio, an island in the eastern bay of Finland National Park, are calling for the place to become a “phone-free island.” Joel Heino, the island’s wildlife and environment manager, says it’s a way to help visitors focus all their senses on nature.

The campaign in Ulko-Tammio does not prohibit "creative artistic activities", as visitors can bring cameras to take pictures but cannot post photos while on the island.

So, once you arrive on the island, you’ll be asked to turn off your phones and experience the wild scenery in the isolated space of Ulko-Tammio. This place is famous for its rugged cliffs, clear waters and Arctic birds. The island also has caves and historical fortresses, associated with several battles during World War II.

Wild landscape on the island

Digital-free vacations are on the rise in the tropics. And there’s growing evidence that social media is addictive and can worsen mental health. Many in the entertainment industry are also working to help customers get away from their phones.

Dave Chappelle and Alicia Keys were early adopters of the ban, banning phones from their shows in 2015. Attendees are required to use special bags to put their phones in, which can only be opened at a lock station at the end of the event. Some courts, restaurants, theaters, and even schools in the US have also restricted the use of phones inside.

According to VnExpress