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<strong>Digital</strong> <strong>Detox</strong> <strong>Hotels</strong><br />
The digital detox holiday will be a global trend during 2013, according to experts at 2012’s World Travel<br />
Market in London. <strong>Digital</strong> detox refers to a process by which travellers attempt to disconnect from<br />
technology by surrendering their mobile phones, laptops and tablets on check-in at their hotel. Some<br />
hotels offer tech-free guest rooms, or designate specific areas for device-free relaxation. To distract<br />
guests from their gadgets, hotels may offer packages containing traditional activities, such as board<br />
games or walking maps of the surrounding area. The idea is that holidaymakers can completely<br />
disconnect from any stresses associated with their devices and their life back home, allowing them to<br />
relax and enjoy their holiday.<br />
As the summer season approaches, an increasing number of hotels are offering tech-free options. The<br />
hotel search website www.trivago.co.uk has put together a list of our ten favourite digital detox hotels.<br />
What better way to disconnect from technology than by lounging on seven mile white sand beaches by<br />
the Caribbean Sea, rejuvenating in an award-winning combination Thai and Western Spa, or glimpsing<br />
howler monkeys and rare birdlife in the Costa Rican tropical forest? From an exclusive private island<br />
resort in The Grenadines to a remote luxury ranch at 3,650 feet in British Columbia, we present the best<br />
places to enjoy your holiday without technology.<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
1) Westin Dublin, Ireland<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/westindublin_ext.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/westindublin_room.jpg<br />
Bar: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/westindublin_bar.jpg<br />
View: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/westindublin_balcony.jpg<br />
The Westin Dublin is a luxury five star hotel ideally located opposite Trinity College in central Dublin,<br />
within walking distance of the lively Temple Bar and the famous shops of Grafton Street. The hotel not<br />
only occupies its own city block, but is housed within the former Allied Irish Bank, boasting an<br />
impressive 19th Century façade. The Westin Dublin launched its digital detox package to help guests<br />
combat their increased dependency on electronic devices. Partakers must stash their electronic devices<br />
in a safe, in exchange for a “detox survival kit”. This includes a board game, walking map and treeplanting<br />
kit, amongst other electronic-free amusements. Inside the hotel there is plenty to distract<br />
guests from their devices, including the popular Mint Bar and the impressive Atrium Lounge, boasting a<br />
five-storey glass ceiling showcasing a canopy of stars at night time.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/dublin-42454/hotel/the-westin-dublin-12454<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
2) Grand Cayman Marriott, Cayman Islands<br />
Pool: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cayman_pool.jpg<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cayman_exterior.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cayman_room.jpg<br />
Beach bar: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cayman_bar.jpg<br />
The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort offers an idyllic Caribbean getaway on the picturesque Grand<br />
Cayman Island. This expansive resort is situated on the renowned Seven Mile Beach, boasting seemingly<br />
endless stretches of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. “Tech free zones” were launched last<br />
year in a selection of the Marriott and Renaissance Caribbean and Mexico Resorts for travellers craving a<br />
“braincation”. No mobile phones or electronic devices are permitted within these zones, which are<br />
optional and operate on an honour system. To create these relaxation zones the Grand Cayman Marriott<br />
utilises its extensive grounds, containing tropical gardens, private seating areas and even a turtle lagoon.<br />
The hotel has a total of 295 spacious rooms with private balconies, and four gourmet restaurants with<br />
the opportunity for oceanfront dining. La Mer Spa guarantees relaxation with its extensive selection of<br />
unique spa treatments.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/west-bay-33778/hotel/grand-cayman-marriott-beach-resort-140993<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
3) Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, Canada<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/echo_ext.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/echo_room2.jpg<br />
Lounge: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/echo_lounge.jpg<br />
Spa: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/echo_spa.jpg<br />
Echo Valley Ranch and Spa is a unique luxury ranch nestled in British Columbia’s picturesque Cariboo<br />
region. Echo Valley offers guests a truly isolated retreat, surrounded only by forests, meadows, the<br />
stunning Costal Mountains and the nearby Fraser River. Their digital detox programme encourages<br />
guests to leave their mobile phones in their suitcases. In the meantime, the programme distracts them<br />
from their phones with an alluring array of activities. These include daily yoga classes, horse riding,<br />
reading, star gazing and hiking in the 3,650 foot altitude fresh Cariboo air. Echo Valley prides itself as a<br />
leading wellness destination, boasting a combination Thai and Western Spa and offering fresh and<br />
healthy cuisine grown and produced on the premises. The hotel offers a variety of accommodation,<br />
from cosy lodge rooms to spacious private cabins with en suite marble bathrooms and outdoor decks.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/clinton-53896/hotel/echo-valley-ranch-and-spa-515066<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
4) Palm Island Resort, The Grenadines<br />
Pool: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/palm_view.jpg<br />
<strong>Digital</strong> <strong>Detox</strong>: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/palm_detox.jpg<br />
Balcony: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/palm_balcony.jpg<br />
Beach: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/palm_beach.jpg<br />
Palm Island is an exclusive private island resort situated close to the southern tip of the St. Vincent and<br />
the Grenadines archipelago. This idyllic resort prides for its scenic natural surroundings and tranquil<br />
pace of life. To support this philosophy, Palm Island contains no telephones or televisions in their guest<br />
rooms. Although such amenities are usually a standard feature, Palm Island believes the unique natural<br />
beauty of the surrounding area deserves to be emphasised. There is plenty to distract guests here, from<br />
a total of five white sand beaches to panoramic walking trails where guests might be lucky enough to<br />
glimpse iguanas or fascinating birdlife. The area is popular among yachtsmen and divers due to the<br />
exotic sea life, reefs and shipwrecks. Guests can take a boat trip to the renowned Tobago Cays, or enjoy<br />
the fresh and locally grown Euro-Caribbean cuisine whilst dining on the beachfront.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/palm-island-445428/hotel/palm-island-resort-1266936<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
5) Kimpton Monaco, Chicago, USA<br />
View: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/monaco_suite2.jpg<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/monaco_ext.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/monaco_room2.jpg<br />
Bedroom2: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/monaco_suite.jpg<br />
Monaco Chicago overlooks the iconic Chicago River in Downtown Chicago, in walking distance of the<br />
renowned North Michigan Avenue and high end shopping on the Magnificent Mile. In case guests tire of<br />
the urban landscape, the 24 acre Frank Gehry inspired “crown jewel” of Chicago, Millennium Park, is on<br />
the hotel’s doorstep. Monaco Chicago offers guests a “black-out” option, where partakers surrender<br />
their gadgets upon check-in. Those seeking utter serenity should check in to the Tranquillity Suite, a<br />
luxurious two-room suite offering relaxation amenities such as in-room massage rollers, relaxing music,<br />
sleep masks and towel warmers. The hotel also offers a fully equipped fitness centre, in-room spa<br />
services and a hosted wine hour each evening. South Water Kitchen is adjacent to the hotel and features<br />
atypical American cuisine, focusing on comfort food and exclusive daily specials.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/chicago-34470/hotel/monaco-chicago-8469<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
6) Four Seasons at Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages//papagayo_entrance.jpg<br />
Balcony: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/papagayo_balcony.jpg<br />
Terrace: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/papagayo_terrace.jpg<br />
Four Seasons at Peninsula Papagayo is a premium eco-adventure nestled between golden sand beaches<br />
and the Costa Rican jungle. Guests can experience the best of both worlds by surfing in the Pacific Ocean<br />
and spotting howler and white-faced monkeys in the tropical forest. The resort has partnered with<br />
iPhone case company Uncommon to offer guests a “Disconnect to Reconnect” package, in which<br />
participants must surrender their iPhones for 24 hours. A list of 24 things to do without technology is<br />
provided, and the iPhones are returned after the allotted time with a choice of four Costa Rican themed<br />
iPhone cases. On the list are various unique activities and amenities offered by the resort, including a<br />
Costa Rican coffee scrub treatment at the Spa, fresh coconut water by the pool and beautiful blue<br />
morphos in the butterfly garden.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/liberia-89012/hotel/four-seasons-costa-rica-at-peninsula-papagayo-<br />
1017834<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
7) Renaissance Pittsburgh, USA<br />
Terrace: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/renaissance_terrace.jpg<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/renaissance_ext.jpg<br />
Reception: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/renaissance_lobby.jpg<br />
Restaurant: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/renaissance_restaurant.jpg<br />
Renaissance Pittsburgh is centrally located in the historic downtown district, close to the popular Andy<br />
Warhol museum and the PNC Park. This luxury boutique hotel is housed within the iconic Fulton<br />
Building, featuring stunning architecture and an elegant interior. Renaissance Pittsburgh offers a family<br />
digital detox package, in which families are encouraged to reconnect with each other. All laptops and<br />
mobile phones must be surrendered on check-in, and the television, telephone and iPhone docking<br />
station are removed from the guest room. Instead, families are provided with board games and playing<br />
cards. The hotel also offers an outdoor terrace for the warmer months, a fully equipped fitness centre<br />
and a French Brasserie or American Grill Restaurant to choose between. Guest rooms feature striking 12<br />
foot ceilings and luxurious bedding, with some offering views over the Allegheny River and downtown<br />
Pittsburgh.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/pittsburgh-34933/hotel/renaissance-pittsburgh-80067<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
8) JW Marriott Cancun, Mexico<br />
Pool: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cancun_pool.jpg<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cancun_ext.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cancun_room.jpg<br />
Garden: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/cancun_garden.jpg<br />
JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa is a landmark on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, located in the heart of the<br />
popular Cancun Hotel Zone and offering exemplary service and facilities. Cancun is a holiday-makers<br />
dream, offering stretches of white sand beaches, turquoise waters and luxurious beachside hotels. JW<br />
Marriott features the same “tech-free zones” offered by nine Mariott and Renaissance Caribbean and<br />
Mexico Resorts across seven different locations. These zones are marked by signs, and guests are<br />
encouraged to leave their devices in their hotel rooms and relax, read or enjoy quiet conversation.<br />
Elsewhere in the resort, guests can choose between two expansive outdoor pools, including a 14 foot<br />
dive pool with artificial reef. There is a luxurious Mayan-inspired Spa and a choice of four world-class<br />
restaurants, showcasing Italian, Southwestern and Argentinian cuisine. Each of the 448 guest rooms<br />
boasts a private balcony with stunning ocean views.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/cancun-51462/hotel/jw-marriott-cancun-resort---spa-34467<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
9) Lifehouse Spa and Hotel, Essex, UK<br />
Exterior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/lifehouse_exterior.jpg<br />
Bedroom: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/lifehouse_bedroom.jpg<br />
Interior: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/lifehouse_interior.jpg<br />
Terrace: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/lifehouse_terrace.jpg<br />
The Lifehouse Spa and Hotel is a contemporary British countryside retreat set in 12 acres of English<br />
Heritage Gardens. Located just over an hour by train from London, this spa and hotel offers a tranquil<br />
retreat from the city. The Lifehouse has a tech-free policy in their spa environment, where no mobile<br />
phones, iPhones, BlackBerrys, pagers or cameras are permitted. Instead, the focus is on relaxation and<br />
tranquillity. Each of the 89 bedrooms are tastefully decorated in a contemporary style and feature fulllength<br />
doors leading to a private balcony or terrace, with views over the lakes and surrounding<br />
countryside. A full English breakfast is offered at the Restaurant at Lifehouse, where taste and nutrition<br />
are prioritised to create healthy dishes. The spa area boasts an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna,<br />
steam room, hydro-pool and a catalogue of exclusive spa treatments using quality ESPA products.<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/colchester-38158/hotel/lifehouse-spa---hotel-2270870<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
10) Jakes, Treasure Beach, Jamaica<br />
Terrace: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/jakes_terrace.jpg<br />
Suite: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/jakes_suite.jpg<br />
Spa: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/jakes_spa.jpg<br />
Sunset: http://imgll.trivago.com/contentimages/press/images/jakes_sunset.jpg<br />
Jakes is a truly unique creation, where each room and suite is housed within a vividly designed cottage<br />
and blends seamlessly into the landscape. Located on Treasure Beach on the island of Jamaica, the<br />
resort boats a beachfront location with gardens of palm, ackee, almond and coconut trees. In order to<br />
encourage total relaxation and allow guests to focus on the outdoors, most rooms are not equipped<br />
with televisions or telephones. The hotel features a mosaic-tiled sea water swimming pool, and there<br />
are several niches for sunbathing, reflecting or socialising with other guests. Jakes can arrange cycling,<br />
boating and fishing tours, and cooking, painting and mosaic-tile workshops are led by local artists.<br />
Alfresco dining at Jakes reflects their love of Jamaican cuisine and commitment to the community, using<br />
just-picked fruits and catches of the day. Guests should not miss Pelican Bar, suspended a thousand<br />
metres out to sea and accessible by boat only!<br />
Hotel: http://www.trivago.co.uk/treasure-beach-33529/hotel/jakes-157105<br />
Press Contact: Denise Bartlett<br />
Tel.: +44 (0)2030 025 995<br />
E-Mail: denise.bartlett@trivago.com
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