Anyone looking to escape the harsh realities of the 21st century should head for Providencia.

This tiny island in the Caribbean enchants with its striking natural beauty, swaying palm trees and crystal clear waters.

Interaction with the locals is another highlight - a tiny population means that everyone seems to know each other and swapping stories about friends and neighbors is a time-honored tradition.

Providencia is only 17-square kilometres so it possibly to walk around the island in day, passing through quaint settlements as you go.

Make sure to stop in at Café Studio at Bahia Suroeste to meet the resident Canadian who brews up fresh espresso.

And don't miss the opportunity to hang out with Roland at the Roots Bar. You can stay in his bungalows, eat delicious fried fish and watch as he scampers up the palms to retrieve fresh coconuts.

To get here, you'll need to fly to San Andrés and then catch a puddle jumper on to Providencia.