Digital detox retreats — wealthy travelers are paying thousands to have their phones taken away from them: ‘Guests go stir crazy’

New York Post - May 11th, 2025

In response to the increasing desire to disconnect, digital detox retreats are gaining popularity, with vacationers willing to pay thousands for tech-free experiences. According to a 2025 Hilton Trends Report, 27% of adults aim to reduce screen time while on vacation, and 17% seek trips that enforce a break from technology. Retreats like the Grand Velas Resorts in Mexico and the Urban Cowboy Lodge in the Catskills offer such experiences, where guests lock away their devices to engage in activities like biking and snorkeling instead of doom-scrolling.

The trend highlights a growing awareness of the negative impact of constant connectivity, with studies from the University of Greenwich and the University of East Anglia showing initial discomfort that transitions into a rewarding experience. Reports indicate that while guests initially struggle without their devices, they adjust within 48 hours, finding enjoyment in offline activities. This movement towards digital detox signifies a shift in travel preferences, emphasizing mindfulness and presence over digital interaction, reflecting broader societal concerns about technology's impact on mental well-being.

Bbc Travel Trends Digital Detox Hilton Trends Report Cool Places Plum Guide Grand Velas Resorts Urban Cowboy Lodge Martin Dunford University Of Greenwich University Of East Anglia Technology Free Vacations

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides an informative overview of the growing trend of digital detox retreats, highlighting their appeal and potential benefits. It is clear and engaging, making it accessible to a broad audience interested in wellness and travel. However, the article lacks balance and transparency, as it does not present opposing viewpoints or disclose the methodology behind the statistics provided. The reliance on secondary sources without direct citations affects the credibility of the information. Despite these shortcomings, the article remains relevant and timely, tapping into current debates about technology use and its impact on mental health.

Accuracy

The article makes several factual claims regarding the rising interest in digital detox retreats, citing specific statistics from the 2025 Hilton Trends Report and Plum Guide. These claims appear consistent with industry trends noted in other sources. However, the article does not provide direct access to the original sources, which limits the ability to verify the precision of these statistics. Additionally, while the article mentions collaborations with universities, it lacks detailed findings from these studies, which are crucial for substantiating claims about behavioral adjustments during digital detoxes.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the positive aspects of digital detox retreats, such as the benefits of disconnecting and the experiences of guests. It does not present opposing viewpoints or potential downsides, such as the challenges some individuals might face without technology or the high costs associated with these retreats. Including perspectives from critics or highlighting potential drawbacks would provide a more balanced view.

Clarity

The article is generally well-written, with a clear structure and logical flow. The language is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative. The tone is neutral, and the information is presented in a coherent manner, allowing readers to understand the key points without confusion.

Source quality

The article references the BBC, Hilton Trends Report, and Plum Guide, suggesting a reliance on reputable sources. However, it lacks direct citations or links to these reports, which affects the ability to assess the reliability of the information. The absence of primary data or direct quotes from these sources limits the depth of the analysis and raises questions about the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the reporting.

Transparency

The article does not disclose the methodology behind the statistics provided, nor does it explain how the data was collected or analyzed. There is also no mention of potential conflicts of interest, such as affiliations between the sources and the businesses promoted in the article. Greater transparency about how the information was obtained and verified would enhance the credibility of the story.