Digital detox holidays – could you switch off on your next trip?
You would think that being constantly attached to your laptop, tablet or smartphone would make you more connected, more organised and more efficient, right? Wrong. Studies show that this kind of never ending connectivity results in your brain paying partial continuous attention, placing you in a heightened state of stress. You might think you’re getting more done by multitasking, but it’s likely that you’re just getting faster and sloppier. People find that it is harder to concentrate on conversations or to stay focused on a book, tasks that once seemed easy. And if you’re constantly checking your work email or looking at what your friends are doing on Facebook it’s hard to allow yourself to mentally “get away”, even though you’re physically removed.
The solution could be a digital detox – no phone, no internet, no exceptions. You will need to look a little harder to find a holiday destination that has avoided the world wide web, but your brain will thank you for it.
St Vincent and the Grenadines
This Caribbean nation was one of the first pioneers of the digital detox. Visitors hand over their smartphones and other gadgets on arrival and are given a printed guidebook with suggestions for ways to spend your time. You’re even briefed before you begin your holiday on how to handle any tech-related panic and a life coach is available with advice on how to avoid letting technology rule your life.
Six Senses Soneva Fushi
The ultra luxe Six Senses chain has a “no news, no shoes” policy and encourages guest to embrace the slow life movement. Soneva Fushi is a private atoll in the Maldives that is effectively in its own black hole, so you’ve no choice but to switch off completely. But when you’re lying under the stars in your own private outdoor cinema, you probably won’t miss it so much.
Shambhala Ranch, California (pictured above)
This secluded ranch is tucked away in the California hills and hosts just 14 guests at a time. It regularly runs three-day digital detox retreats throughout the year where tweeting and texting are replaced by yoga, hiking, meditation, arts and crafts, journaling or just relaxing in a hot tub. It’s a chance to get in touch with your inner hippy – there’s even a little tree hugging (yes, actual hugging) if you feel up for it.
The Westin, Dublin
Of course you can get phone and internet access in the heart of the Irish capital, so this one might take a bit more willpower. The hotel offers a digital detox package that includes a safe to lock away your gadgets, a detox survival kit, breakfast in bed and an in-room massage. Tuck yourself up for a few nights and switch off from the outside world. Or do things the old fashioned way and connect with real people over a few pints of Guinness.
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