Hotels Offer Digital Escape as Guests Seek Screen-Free Relaxation

“Digital Detox” Trend Catches On Amidst Growing Screen Dependency

In an era of constant connectivity, a growing number of vacationers are actively seeking respite from their devices. Hoteliers are capitalizing on this desire by introducing “Digital Detox” packages, offering guests a chance to truly disconnect and recharge.

Unplugging in the Mountains

Following the popularization of the concept, seen in shows like “The White Lotus,” several hotels are now providing guests with opportunities to experience a vacation entirely offline. This trend is being actively promoted by tour operators and tourism bodies.

The Frutt Mountain Resort in Obwald has integrated Digital Detox into its summer strategy. Cornelia Zschunke of the resort explained to RTS that they welcome many Swiss visitors looking not only to explore the region but also to withdraw and re-center their focus on life’s essentials.

A Respite from the Digital Deluge

Participants in the Digital Detox program at the resort are required to surrender their phones and tablets upon arrival. The rooms themselves are intentionally devoid of digital distractions, featuring neither televisions nor radios.

“At work, I spend my time behind a screen, about 8 to 9 hours a day. And even when I go home, I scroll on my phone,” shared Zifan, who, along with his companion Alexandre, booked a digital detox stay. The couple found the 48-hour screen-free period a significant departure from their usual habits.

During their stay, Zifan and Alexandre immersed themselves in the hotel’s other amenities, such as the spa and library. Initially, Zifan admitted to feeling a sense of apprehension: “Do not read the news, do not be reachable, do not know what is going on in the rest of the world is a bit frightening,” she said. However, Alexandre found the experience liberating, stating, “When you have no phone on you, you immediately feel less stressed,”

Expert Views on Disconnection

While the Frutt Mountain Resort’s digital detox experience comes at a premium, costing over 600 francs per person per night, the act of disconnecting is accessible to everyone. Simply turning off one’s phone during a vacation can be a starting point.

However, psychologist Niels Weber, who specializes in hyper-connectivity, expresses reservations about enforced disconnection. He cautions that framing constant connectivity as inherently negative could lead to increased daily guilt. “This will increase daily guilt,” he stated.

Weber further emphasizes that the long-term benefits of digital detox are questionable without sustained practice. “I do not necessarily recommend a Digital Detox stay. On the other hand, we can invite each other to think when the screens are useful or not,” he concluded, advocating for mindful technology use rather than complete abstinence.

This approach aligns with a recent survey indicating that nearly half of all people in Switzerland exhibit smartphone dependency, highlighting the need for a more balanced relationship with digital devices.