A true vacation is when you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life so you can reconnect with the world around you. Which is why digital detoxes-a total disconnect from mobile phones, social media, computers and televisions-are becoming a popular and worthwhile trend in the world of travel.
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can wait, but your health and well-being cannot. Saying no to the screen and yes to your mental clarity is harder than it sounds. We all go on vacation with the best of intentions, but as soon as you have five seconds of downtime or your fantasy football notification chirps, your phone leaps into your hand with practiced precision. To help you fully embrace a digital detox on your next vacation, follow these five tips below.
1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT HOTEL
These hotels below surround you in sunshine, style and sophistication, making it easy to forget about the latest news headlines and simply soak in the scene. Plus, when you stay at one, you will enjoy the bonus amenities of the [multisite.site_brand]SELECT Hotels & Resorts program.
2. GET ON THE SAME PAGE
Everyone in your group has to be 100% onboard with the digital detox. There's nothing worse than your partner constantly shoving their device in your face, showing you the latest meme from Reddit, while you're trying to focus on the gorgeous sunset. Make clear rules about when it's okay to use your phones-possibly to take pictures of said sunset, or five minutes each morning to make sure everything is fine back home.
3. NOTIFY THOSE WHO CONTACT YOU MOST
Tell your friends, family, co-workers and clients that you will not be answering emails or texts for the next several days. While some of these people may be miffed by your absence, most will completely understand your need to disconnect. Be sure to tell them that you are reachable for emergencies, but only real emergencies and not when the office printer is low on toner.
4. CHANGE YOUR SETTINGS
Your phone has a million ways to notify you about the ever-changing world...and a million ways to turn those notifications off. Disable push notifications and set your phone to silent. Or better yet, put your phone into airplane mode for the entire day you're out sightseeing and especially at dinner.
