Lower self control, decreased psychological health and an increased risk of nearsightedness are all risks associated with extended screen time, according to recent research published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, average screen time has increased as society relies more heavily on technology to bridge the gap between physical experiences, education and work. And while technology has proved an essential tool for many, exposure to more than four hours of screen time per day comes with some risks. Researchers even say that repeated doomscrolling become a habit that’s hard to break.
Now, as vaccinations roll out and travelers begin thinking about life back on the road, these vacation ideas could help put a dent in doomscrolling.
Take Your Trip Underground
Caves like Missouri's Meramac Caverns offer a signal-less solution to outdoor adventure that can ... [+]
America has more than 17,000 caves spread from coast to coast. National parks like Mammoth Cave, Carlsbad Caverns and Wind Cave offer pristine natural experience, while private caves—like Tennessee’s Lost River and Missouri’s Meramac Cavern—are often centerpieces for outdoor adventures that leave little room for cell phones.
Bowling Green, Kentucky’s Lost River Cave is home to the state’s only underground cave boat tour, one that Ripley’s Believe It or Not claims is the shortest and deepest in the world. Lost River Cave also offers a handful of nature walking trails, a zipline over the treetops, and a guided history of the cave and the war troops that once hid themselves inside of it.
Trade in Blue Lights for Starlight with a Team of Astronomers
Dark Sky cities and sanctuaries turn your attention to the stars and away from your phone.
After a year spent staring at popcorn ceilings, trade in your pillow-talk view for a view of the stars. On Trafalgar’s new Magnificent Southwest itinerary, travelers will visit the International Dark City of Tuscon and go deep into Saguaro National Park with a local astrology specialist and an experienced team of astronomers to reveal the secrets of the universe with customized, transportable computerized telescopes. The trip can be turned into a private tour and visits seven other national parks perfect for stargazing and includes a dedicated travel director to lead the way.
Want to guide yourself? Head to Massacre Rim, Nevada. Located in far northern Washoe County about 1.5 hours outside of Reno Tahoe lies Massacre Rim, one of the darkest and most remote places on the planet. Massacre Rim is one of only six Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the entire world certified by the International Dark Sky Association, and very accessible via road trip from the west coast. A truly ‘out of this world’ experience, Massacre Rim can’t be experienced via a screen.
Grab a Discount by Reducing Your Screen Time
Wyndham is offering guests who reduce their screen time by 25% a discount this Spring.
Running until National Day of Unplugging on March 5, any traveler who takes the “Club Wyndham Unplugging Pledge” to reduce screen time by 25% will receive a matched discount on select properties for future travel. With suites featuring multiple bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens and relaxed living spaces in the best drive-to destinations, Club Wyndham is making it easy to unplug and get back to living your bucket list. Time spent offline means more time hiking through Smoky Mountains National Park while staying at Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains, kayaking through the wooded lagoons of Edisto Beach at Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge or horseback riding through the Ozark region at Club Wyndham Branson at The Meadows.
Rediscover Your Spiritual Side in a Converted Chapel House
Love Home Swap, a global home-swapping platform, invites guests to unplug and reach a higher plane in this chapel-turned-cozy home. Through the Love Home Swap platform, members can choose from three different monthly plans ranging from $11 to $15 a month. Those who have grown sick of their homes turned offices in the past year can pick a home, pack their bags, and unplug. If chapels aren’t your thing, swappers can check into a Bridgerton-style castle home or an architectural space ala- Malcom & Marie.
