In today’s hyper-connected world, going off the grid has become a popular – and some say necessary – way to travel. The reasons for disconnecting are endless: it provides time to get in touch with nature, to explore new hobbies, to focus on personal well-being, and to reconnect with friends. If you’re seeking a digital detox, check out the below suggestions for going dark on your next vacation:
I’ve Got the Power: Scratch that. Reverse it. “No power” is the theme for 2019 at UXUA Casa Hotel and Spa’s new Trails for Trancoso initiative. The program, which was developed by UXUA and is 100% financed by the property, creates car-free, green corridors connecting local attractions, beaches and neighborhoods in Trancoso, Brazil. Residents and tourists alike can enjoy a safe and sustainable transportation network via foot, bike, and horseback. The results are clear: 99% of guests don’t rent cars; and 85% of staff members arrive to work by foot or bicycle. Local sourcing allows delivery of many foods and supplies by pulled carts or canoe rather than powered vehicles. The program has cultural significance: UXUA sits on the 500-year-old, automobile-free Historic Quadrado.
A Treat for a Better Sleep: Park Hyatt Tokyo’s Good Night Sleep Stretch, a complimentary 30-minute program, is designed to prepare the body for restful sleep. The teacher-led class takes place in a candlelit fitness room overlooking the city from the 47th floor. It consists of slow stretches and breathing exercises to loosen muscles and bring the body into equilibrium. Across the world in New York City, guests at The Chatwal have access to nine 12-minute yoga classes led by Eddie Stern (Gwyneth Paltrow’s yoga and spiritual guru) via in-room iPads.
Skin in the Game: Did you know that your screens are aging your skin? Guinot’s new Sun Logic (available in SPF 20 and SPF 30) is an anti-aging sunscreen that protects the skin not only from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also from blue light rays from TVs, computers, and mobile phones – keeping skin safe both in the office and at the beach.
Spring Awakening: With Nayara Springs’ Digital Detox, guests are invited to lock away their tablets, smart phones, and laptops and unwind with daily yoga and meditation, a Nature Escape Spa package (hot stone massage, facial, and relaxation time in the natural mineral hot springs), and a birdwatching tour. If you’re too anxious to have your phone under lock and key, start with baby steps and enjoy evening candlelight yoga at the rainforest yoga pavilion. The natural background sounds of chirping tree frogs and a babbling stream below sets the tone for low-impact poses designed to relax the body in preparation for sleep.
Tub and Tonic: At the newly opened Shou Sugi Ban House wellness retreat in the Hamptons, guests are encouraged to return to the simplicity of self. They’ll end each evening with a soak and sleep tonic before bed. Each guest studio is outfitted with either a modern air massage soaking tub or Japanese soaking tub, called Hinoki ofuro.
A No Phone Zone: Nantucket Island Resort’s The Wauwinet encourages guests to stay in the moment and enjoy the view without distraction by restricting phone use while relaxing on the green lawn.