If you’re vibing like Dagny Taggart and looking for your own Galt’s Gulch, you have your choices of a few utopic spots around the world. For those who have no idea what we’re talking about, you may want to pick up the light read of Atlas Shrugged. We’ll give you the CliffsNotes, in case the 500+ pages won’t fit into your schedule. The nutshell is: the smartest people in society retreat to a secret town to create their own utopia, and let the rest of the world fall into an abyss of corruption. We’ve been seeing the movement (not just this year) from the smartest people in the room setting up their Plan. These are the destinations to check out this summer that may be your escape route too.
Singapore
Where to stay: The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore
There was once a time when Singapore would not have made this list. Government corruption and bribery were at an all-time high, along with homelessness and unemployment—but this is ancient history now. Luckily, Singapore experienced a complete turnaround following its independence from Malaysia in 1965. Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew implemented policies promoting business and political transparency, while fostering unity between different ethnic and religious groups through national union, as well as jobs and housing initiatives.
As of 2024, Singapore now ranks as the third cleanest country in terms of corruption, scoring 84 out of 100 according to Transparency International’s Corruption Index. The country is also one of the highest-ranked in economic efficiency—-and we haven’t even mentioned the passport yet. The Singaporean passport is the most powerful passport in the world, granting visa-free access to 195 out of 227 destinations worldwide. In other words, Singapore boasts top-tier global relations, which is exactly the kind of advantage you want when utopia is on the mind.
Montenegro
Where to stay: One&Only Portonovi
The Balkans are an underestimated region, which automatically places these countries at an advantage for your future hideout. Montenegro, specifically, is full of pristine natural landscapes—from the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by charming medieval towns, to Durmitor National Park, filled with glacial lakes and canyons. Your utopian perimeter is set by nature. To make matters even easier, pre-existing exclusive luxury residences like Sveti Stefan (a resort island that hosts celebrities and royalty) and Porto Montenegro have already worked to create hubs for your escape. Investment programs offer residency for half a million dollars (which is a steal compared to other European countries). Montenegro is also on its way to becoming part of the European Union, so you’ll have all the advantages of its alliances, with more privacy and a relaxed pace of life.
Hebrides
Where to stay: Buy property.
Yes, it’s a real place, and if you haven’t heard of it, don’t feel too bad—that’s exactly the point. The Hebrides are in the middle of nowhere, translating to total peace of mind. The archipelago is off the west coast of Scotland, so now might be a good time to brush up on your Gaelic knowledge. The Hebrides are divided into the inner Hebrides, which are closer to the mainland, and the outer Hebrides are further out west—for those looking to be completely off the radar. Community spirit is extremely strong for islands with a combined population of just 45,000 people. Gaelic traditions like local music festivals (ceilidhs) and folklore education bring community members together frequently, emphasizing life’s simpler pleasures. The community is also dedicated to sustainability, making the isolated area self-sufficient. Some of the Hebrides’ sustainable practices include renewable energy and eco-friendly farming. So there’s no need to sacrifice your morning omelet, even though you’re floating in the middle of the North Atlantic.
Portugal
Where to stay: Six Senses Douro Valley; Querido
Let’s start with the obvious reasons Portugal is a paradise. There are varying natural landscapes that allow for a relaxed lifestyle, like the beaches of the Algarve, and options like the vineyards of the Douro Valley for those seeking more modern luxury. The climate is also a major plus with comfortable Mediterranean temperatures year-round. Portugal is also attractive because of its affordable cost of living. Programs like the Golden Visa will grant residency through real estate investment, starting at just $300,000. Tax incentives for new residents also reduce tax rates for professions like corporate leadership. Imagine days filled with sunshine, sandy beaches, and all the Port Wine your heart desires.
New Zealand
Where to stay: ROKI; Rosewood
If a country has more sheep than people, we’d say it’s an ideal contender for your future hideout. As for your surrounding environment, New Zealand has a bit of everything. Snowy peaks, rainforests, beaches, and fjords will have you forgetting the pressures of fast-paced living. Geographically, it is advantageous for your future Plan because it has the benefits of a developed country with the isolation needed to separate yourself from global conflict. The government dedicates its attention to sustainability because of the many pristine ecosystems in the area; combined with a low population density (about 50 people per square mile), New Zealand guarantees a cleaner standard of living. New Zealand is also consistently in the top five rankings for most peaceful countries globally, coming in at 4th this past year. The country has so many green flags that in 2018, the government had to implement a foreign buyer ban to keep housing costs affordable for the local community. There is a loophole, however; remember the almighty Singaporean passport? Well, buying exceptions are made for Singapore residents because of trade agreements; in other words, your ticket in.
FAQs
Q: Where is ROKI New Zealand located?
A: ROKI Collection Queenstown is on Lake Esplanade in Queenstown, New Zealand, on Lake Wakatipu.
Q: How can I obtain a Singaporean passport as a U.S. Citizen?
A: You may apply for a passport if you invest in property and become a permanent resident for at least two years. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship, so you must renounce your U.S. passport.
Q: Is One&Only Portonovi kid-friendly?
A: Yes, the hotel offers a teen club, a kids’ club, equipment for your baby’s needs, and babysitters on hand.
